5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in May After Sakura Season

Many travelers think Japan’s most beautiful time is spring, when cherry blossoms paint the streets in March and April. While sakura season is breathtaking, Japan in May has its own charm—lush landscapes, vibrant flower fields, and crisp, refreshing weather. If you missed the cherry blossoms, don’t worry—this is the perfect time to explore a different side of Japan’s natural beauty.

As the country transitions from the sakura season, colorful blooms take center stage, creating picture-perfect scenery. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and nature is at its peak. Whether you’re drawn to stunning landscapes or looking to experience Japan's festivals in May, this is a month worth exploring. Let’s dive into the best places to visit in Japan in May and discover what makes this season so special!

If you’ve ever seen photos of rolling hills covered in vibrant blue flowers stretching endlessly into the horizon, chances are you’ve been looking at Hitachi Seaside Park. Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, just two hours northeast of Tokyo, this vast public park is famous for its stunning Nemophila, or "Baby Blue Eyes," with over 4.5 million flowers in bloom.

From late April to mid-May, Miharashi Hill transforms into a mesmerizing blue landscape, where delicate Nemophila flowers sway gently in the breeze, creating the illusion of an endless sky on the ground. The surreal beauty of this scene makes it one of the best places to visit in Japan in May—a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss:

• ● Ride the Ferris wheel for a panoramic view of the Nemophila fields
• ● Rent a bicycle to explore the park at a leisurely pace
• ● Capture the iconic scenery from the Miharashi Hill viewpoint
• ● Try the limited-edition Nemophila blue ice cream, available only during this season

One of the most breathtaking Japan festivals in May, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, offers an unforgettable sight—endless fields of Shibazakura (pink moss) in full bloom against the majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji. This stunning contrast of pink flowers, a snow-capped peak, and a clear blue sky creates a postcard-perfect scene that attracts visitors from around the world.

The festival showcases over 800,000 Shibazakura flowers, spread across a vast area with five distinct varieties. Shades of soft pink, deep magenta, white, and purple blend harmoniously, forming a mesmerizing floral landscape. 

The event takes place at Fuji Motosuko Resort, located just 3 km south of Lake Motosu, one of the renowned Fuji Five Lakes. Held annually from mid-April to late May or early June, the best viewing period typically falls within the first three weeks of May, though exact blooming times vary each year.

Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss:

• ● Capture breathtaking shots of Mount Fuji framed by endless pink moss fields
• ● Stroll along scenic walking paths surrounded by vibrant flowers
• ● Try unique Shibazakura-inspired treats, including pink moss-flavored ice cream and beverages

If you thought the previous destinations were breathtaking, get ready to be amazed by Ashikaga Flower Park, one of the best places to visit in Japan in May. Located in Tochigi Prefecture, about two hours north of Tokyo, this park is home to a legendary 150-year-old wisteria tree, recognized as one of the world’s must-see natural wonders.

From late April to mid-May, Ashikaga Flower Park transforms into a mesmerizing floral paradise, with cascading wisteria in shades of purple, pink, and white creating enchanting tunnels and floral canopies. The soft fragrance of the blooms fills the air, making a stroll through the park an unforgettable experience. For flower lovers, this is a must-visit destination that truly defies description.

Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss:

• ● "Great Wisteria" Tree – A 150-year-old wisteria spreading across 1,000 square meters
• ● Wisteria Tunnels – Stunning 80-meter-long pathways draped in purple and white flowers
• ● Umbrella-Shaped Wisteria – A beautifully arranged canopy of cascading blossoms
• ● Evening Illuminations – A magical light display that turns the park into a fairy-tale setting

For tulip lovers looking to experience a European-style floral spectacle without leaving Japan, the Tonami Tulip Fair in Toyama is a must-visit. As one of the largest Japan's festivals in May, this annual event showcases over 3 million tulips, featuring an incredible 700 varieties in full bloom. Held from late April to early May, this festival transforms the landscape into a breathtaking sea of colors.

The park is thoughtfully designed with tulips arranged in vibrant patterns, open fields, and artistic displays, offering a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you're admiring the structured flower beds or wandering through vast tulip fields, the festival offers an unforgettable celebration of spring.

Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss:

• ● "Rainbow Tulip Field" – A stunning display of multi-colored tulips arranged like a rainbow
• ● Observation Tower – Get a panoramic view of the entire tulip garden from above
• ● Cultural Performances – Enjoy live music and local performances during the festival

While peak lavender season in Hokkaido falls in mid-July, visitors to Farm Tomita in late May can still experience the beauty of early-blooming lavender varieties. These delicate purple-hued flowers begin to blossom ahead of the season, offering a picturesque landscape long before summer arrives. Adding to the vibrant scenery, fields of poppies and lupines also come into bloom, creating a stunning mix of colors across the farm.

Located in Furano, Farm Tomita is one of the best places to visit in Japan in May for flower lovers. Beyond its famous lavender fields, the farm showcases beautifully curated flower beds that change with the seasons, resembling a living painting. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido and looking for breathtaking floral views, this is a destination you shouldn't miss.

Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss: 

• ● Traditional Farm – A signature flower field with color-striped floral arrangements
• ● Sakiwai Field – A vibrant mix of bright red poppies and multicolored blooms
• ● Lavender Ice Cream – A must-try treat, exclusively available at the farm
• ● Lavender Distillery & Gift Shop – Explore the production process and take home lavender-infused products

Japan in May offers a unique charm that makes it one of the best months to explore the country. With ideal weather, fewer crowds, and better travel deals, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags and experience Japan at its best!
 

• ● Pleasant Weather: Enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 15-23°C, with a refreshing breeze. It’s neither too cold nor too hot, making sightseeing comfortable without worrying about extreme weather.
• ● Fewer Crowds: With cherry blossom season and Golden Week behind, tourist numbers drop, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive travel experience without the usual crowds.
• ● More Budget-Friendly Travel: As the peak season winds down, flights and accommodations become more affordable, making May one of the best times to visit Japan without breaking the bank.

Whether you're a nature lover, photography enthusiast, culture seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Japan in May has more to offer than you might expect. While cherry blossoms may have faded, vibrant flower fields and exciting Japan festivals in May create a travel experience just as spectacular.

Exploring Japan beyond sakura season allows you to see a different side of the country—one filled with stunning landscapes, lively cultural events, and fewer crowds. Open yourself to a new adventure, plan your May getaway, and discover why Japan in late spring is just as breathtaking!

With Gother, planning your Japan trip in May is easier than ever. Find the best deals on flights, accommodations, unique activities, and car rentals—all in one place, with unbeatable promotions! Book now and experience the magic of Japan’s late spring!