I’ve been wandering Japan’s spring since 2018, collecting petals and moments from trains, rivers, small-town shrines, and mountains most people scroll past. This guide features hand-picked sakura spots from 13 prefectures outside the Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, curated for travelers who want to experience spring beyond the famous crowds. It’s built for those who chase seasons with curiosity and enjoy hanami with respect, celebrating local landscapes, culture, and fleeting moments at the right time.