7 Sakura spots near Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto.

Explore Japan's lesser-known sakura spots for beautiful blooms and tranquility away from the crowds in major cities.

Listen up! Sakura season in Japan is like a cherry blossom bonanza, but if you want to dodge the crowds of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, there’s a whole world of hidden gems waiting for you! You’ve got Hirosaki Castle with its 2500 sakura trees and rich history dating back to 1611. You’ll bask in beauty from late April to early May and enjoy unique flower types like shidarezakura and yaezakura.

Then there’s Goryokaku in Hokkaido—a star-shaped fort with killer views from its tower, and don't sleep on Takada Castle Park in Niigata, where an annual festival brings the blossoms to life at night! Kenrokuen in Kanazawa is another must-see, practically begging you to wander its trails in April. Finally, check out Nara Park and its free-roaming deer, plus Maizuru Park with a castle backdrop in Fukuoka. You’ll find plenty of charm without the chaos!

Read more__〆(￣ー￣ )

Fascinated by Japan’s culture and history? Learn the language that brings it all to life. Start now at LearnJapanese.com!

Shinjuku Alta shuts down after 45 years.

The Shinjuku Alta building, a popular meeting spot for 45 years, will close its doors after decades of business.

Japan has the world's smallest park, which is incredibly tiny.

Nagaizumi in Shizuoka Prefecture now holds the Guinness World Record for the smallest park, measuring just 0.24 square meters.

Takashi Murakami collaborates with MLB for Tokyo Series.

Takashi Murakami is collaborating with MLB on a collection featuring unique products for the Tokyo Series between the Dodgers and Cubs.

U.S. war with Japan depicted only in 'Captain America.'

In "Captain America: Brave New World," the U.S. faces conflict with Japan over the newly discovered resource, adamantium.