Wicked Travels Spring 2015 | Page 7

Kyoto – the entire city is literally blanketed with cherry trees and are a spectacular vision in spring. Among the most frequented viewing areas are Maruyama-koen Park, Kyoto Gosho (Imperial Palace Park), the Kiyomizu-dera Temple (especially at night), Ninna-ji Temple (with 8 petalled blooms that flower very late in the season).

Suzhou – With lots of gardens and parks, the White House Brook and Turtle Head Isle are most favored. For a unique experience seek out the Suzhou Cherry Blossom Horse-Riding Club, at White Horse Brook in Suzhou New District. This is the number one riding area in East China. One special riding trail is designated where you can tour on horseback and take photos.

Tokyo – At the Tokyo Hotel Chinzanso, you will find a lovely and serene historical botanical garden which boast 120 cherry trees in 21 varieties. The hotel offers special Hanami packages that include garden tours. Just outside the hotel property, there are famous viewing spots like the promenade along the Kanda River behind the hotel.

Peak Season – End of March through Early April