As local landscapes burst into bloom this spring, we have our eye on a unique cherry blossom event down in Saratoga. Hakone Gardens presents Hanami at Hakone, a compelling experience where you can see 45 blooming cherry trees lit up at night like delicate, pale-pink lanterns. This tradition of nighttime cherry blossom viewing offers an enchanting and extraordinary way to enjoy spring flowers in the Bay Area.
Hanami at Hakone 2025
Hanami at Hakone will take place from March 20th through April 11th, 2025. The event offers two distinct viewing experiences…
Hanami Night Viewing
Roam Hakone’s 17 acres and see dozens of cherry trees lit up with strategically placed lighting, creating a new appreciation for the delicate translucent blossoms.
🗓️ When: Night viewing is available from 6-9:30pm from Monday to Friday only. Final entry to the garden is at 9pm.
🎟️ Tickets: Nighttime tickets cost $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and youth. You must purchase them online in advance.
Hanami Day Viewing
See the garden’s cherry trees in full bloom during daylight hours. While the trees will not be lit up, it’s a lovely way to experience the gardens, especially on a sunny day.
🗓️ When: Day viewing is available from 10am-5pm Monday-Friday and 11am-5pm Saturday-Sunday.
🎟️ Tickets: Daytime tickets cost $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for youth. You can purchase them online or in person.
What is Hanami?
Hanami is the Japanese tradition of “flower viewing,” especially when referring to cherry blossoms which are prevalent throughout Japan. Cherry blossoms, known as sakura, symbolize renewal, hope, and the arrival of spring in Japanese culture.
This tradition of nighttime cherry blossom viewing is called yozakura, and it’s another common way to experience the flowers’ beauty in Japan. We’re lucky to have a garden nearby offering this dazzling nighttime experience, as the glowing flowers are a sight to behold.
More about the Hakone Estate and Gardens
Originally built in 1915 as a private summer residence, Hakone Estate and Gardens is now a public park run by the city of Saratoga. The sprawling 17-acre garden is one of the Western Hemisphere’s oldest authentic Japanese gardens. Visitors are invited to observe the meditative Dry Garden with raked gravel and mosses, follow the Tea Garden path over moss and stepping stones, and marvel at the beauty of the longstanding Bamboo Garden.
It’ll take you about 50 minutes to reach Hakone Gardens by car from San Francisco.
🌐 Website: Hakone Estate and Gardens
📍 Location: 21000 Big Basin Wy, Saratoga, CA 95070