World’s best luxury destinations – #5 Japan’s spring blossom (sakura) season

This article was written by Glion. Click here to read the original article

It’s a new year, offering fresh opportunities to discover exceptional luxury destinations. For our first feature of 2025, we asked our expert correspondent, Dr Barbara Czyzewska, for somewhere that embodies the promise of spring. She chose Japan, and more specifically the truly wonderful spring blossom season…

As the chill of winter fades and the world begins to bloom with life, the arrival of spring marks a magical time of year – especially in Japan. The spring blossom season, known as sakura season, is approaching once again; and that means there’s no better time to plan a luxurious getaway to experience this iconic spectacle.

Why is blossom season so important in Japan?

Cherry blossom season has been celebrated in Japan for centuries. To the Japanese, the blossoms, or sakura, are a symbol of renewal, peace and friendship. They are also a reminder of the fleeting beauty of life, since the blossom is resplendent on the cherry trees for just a couple of weeks before fluttering to the ground.

Blossom season typically falls between March and April, although given the vagaries of nature it can sometimes begin in February. It’s a country-wide phenomenon, but Tokyo’s Ueno Park is among the most popular spots to visit, with the natural splendor made even more picturesque in the evening as strings of paper lanterns illuminate the park.

While the delicate pink and white cherry blossoms are undoubtedly the highlight, Japan offers so much more beyond its floral splendor.

Let’s explore some of the finest ways to embrace Japan’s spring season and craft the ultimate luxurious escape.

Barbara’s best tastes of Japanese luxury hospitality

Hotel New Otani Tokyo
This luxury property lets you stay in the heart of the sakura spectacle. The Hotel New Otani Tokyo is surrounded by some of the most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing in the city, not to mention the 10-acre Japanese Garden that boasts a history dating back more than four centuries and which used to be the property of samurai lords.

The Forbes Travel Guide inspector says of the hotel, “The 400-year-old Japanese garden makes this luxury hotel a must-see for visitors to Tokyo. Stroll through 10 acres of greenery, rocks and waterfalls; see the highly prized school of koi carp in the pond; and walk across the vibrant red Japanese bridges to find a quiet nook to sit and read”.

Amanemu resort, Ago Bay
One of the brands most talked about these days is Aman, and in particular their exclusive onsen (hot springs) resort, Amanemu, located beside Ago Bay, amid the forested hills of Ise-Shima.

Lunch with an ama (amas are female free divers who make their living collecting shellfish, seaweed and sea urchins from the seabed – see photo) or cycle the peaks and shores of Ise-Shima… Amanemu has it all.

Oh, and they can collect your luggage from your home – no need to worry about traveling with suitcases!

Gora Kadan, Hakone
For a more authentic experience why not try some traditional Japanese hospitality in a ryokan (Japanese inn).

The famous hot spring town of Hakone – roughly two hours southwest of Tokyo by train – plays host to several public and private onsen opportunities, but Forbes Travel Guide’s top pick is Gora Kadan.

Serenity comes as standard at Gora Kadan.

Once the summer home of the imperial family, this traditional ryokan checks all the boxes: lovely gardens, elaborate kaiseki (multi-course) Japanese meals, a modern spa and communal onsens (his and hers) that overlook the mountainous landscapes of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Where to dine in style in Japan

No trip to Japan would be complete without an unforgettable meal. The latest hit in Tokyo is Sushi Shin by Miyakawa, located in the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo hotel. The highlight of the meal is interacting with the chef directly, as he prepares your sushi right in front of you on the 350 year old hinoki cypress sushi counter.

While your taste buds are exploding, don’t forget to look around you and feast your eyes also! The restaurant features unique Kumiko woodwork, a technique developed in Japan 1,300 years ago. Shhh, we also have a secret to share with you: Mandarin Oriental Tokyo offers special deals for the cherry blossom season.

Wellness – Japanese style!

After a meal, who wouldn’t want to relax a little? Have you heard of the latest wellness trend? Head spa is a must for anyone trying to disconnect. Try the Hitotoki Head Spa for not only scalp care, but also the ‘soul healing’ treatments that include a series of massages, mud therapies and mists being applying to your head.

How to get ahead in luxury hospitality in Japan

It’s one thing to visit a luxury destination like Japan as a tourist, but why not aim higher and make a career in one of the country’s high end hotels? To do so, you’ll need to develop skills like these:

Interpersonal skills: Clear and friendly communication is essential for building relationships with guests and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
Multicultural understanding: Appreciating different cultures and languages will help you to provide exceptional guest experiences.
Organizational proficiency: Effective time management, attention to detail, and multitasking are essential competencies for managing hotel operations.
Customer service excellence: Exceptional guest service is the foundation of success in hospitality, from entry-level to management roles.
Leadership abilities: Strong leadership skills, including decision-making and strategic thinking, can help move into more senior roles in luxury hospitality.

Studying for a degree in hospitality at Glion is an ideal way to give yourself these tools for success.