As March draws to a close and the famous cherry blossoms are newly blooming, Japan’s festive mood is infectious. With a local host leading you down sakura-lined paths, shop for savory snacks and pastel pink mochi – Japanese confections – at the Fukuoka Castle Sakura Festival in Maizuru Park, or head to a konbini supermarket and grab snacks for your makeshift picnic.

Head to one of Fukuoka’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots like Nishi Park, where hundreds of families gather for hanami picnics under 1,300 trees, or, for an extra-memorable experience, take a 30-minute train ride to Uminonakamichi Seaside Park for a stroll under cherry blossom tunnels, views of multi-colored spring flower gardens, and a fresh ocean breeze.