Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots Loved by Japanese Locals 🇯🇵🌸

#cherryblossom25 If you want to avoid the usual crowds in Tokyo during sakura season, here’s a super underrated spot tucked away in a lesser-known prefecture: 📍 Minobu-san Kuon-ji Temple (身延山久遠寺) There’s a huge weeping cherry blossom tree here that’s over 400 years old, and when it’s in full bloom, it creates the most magical cherry blossom snow (sakura fubuki) scene you can imagine. Absolutely breathtaking!! 💡 By the time I’m writing this post, it might be past peak bloom already—but definitely bookmark this spot for next year, especially if you’re in Tokyo and missed the cherry blossoms in the city. ✨ Bonus tip: The sakura here actually blooms earlier than in Tokyo, so pro photographers and seasoned cherry blossom lovers often make a special trip here to catch it! 🚗 How we got there: We were coming from Lake Kawaguchi and had to transfer multiple times by train and bus—so the place was nearly tourist-free and super peaceful. BUT! We later found out there’s a direct highway bus from Shinjuku that takes about 3 hours straight to Minobu Temple—way more convenient! It’s definitely a hidden gem, and sooo worth the trip 🌸❤️ #travel