Forget Tokyo: Russia's Own Cherry Blossom Season is Weeks Away

Moscow, February 17 – Travel experts are reminding Russians that a springtime ritual often associated with Japan can be experienced much closer to home. According to Daria Domostroeva, press service head for the Intourist travel operator, four Russian cities offer spectacular and authentic cherry blossom displays each April and May.

"Admiring sakura doesn't require a trip to Asia," Domostroeva told RIA Novosti. "We have several cities where you can see truly beautiful, classic blooms. The timing depends on the weather, but generally, the season runs from mid-April to the first half of May. It starts earlier in the south and a bit later in the northwest."

In Moscow, the main attraction is the Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden, where the trees were planted as part of a collaboration with Japan. During the peak, the garden takes on a festive air with photo sessions, strolls, and picnics. For Muscovites, it's the easiest way to enjoy a 'Japanese' spring without flights or visas.

Sochi's Dendrarium Park holds one of the country's largest collections. Spring is considered the low season there, keeping costs down. Flights from Moscow can be found for 6,000-10,000 rubles round-trip with early booking, and hotels start around 2,000-3,000 rubles per night. Blooms typically appear by mid-April.

Thanks to the Baltic climate, Kaliningrad sees an earlier spring, with blossoms in April. Early bird flights cost 7,000-12,000 rubles, with accommodation from 2,000 rubles nightly.

In St. Petersburg, the season usually arrives in late April or early May, though the city's changeable weather can shift the dates. Travel during the May holidays is pricier, but mid-week trips from Moscow can be secured for 4,000-8,000 rubles for transport, with similar hotel rates to other cities.