Amelie CameronEver since I moved to Toronto during my college years, I’ve come to eagerly anticipate the return of cherry blossom season every spring. These charming blooms aren’t just beautiful, as they carry a rich history that makes them more special.
Did you know that many of our city’s cherry blossom trees were gifted by Japan in 1959? It was a heartfelt gesture of friendship and a way to show gratitude for Toronto’s acceptance of Japanese-Canadian refugees after World War II.
This year’s prediction of their peak bloom is between April 29 and May 9. Of course, it depends on how the weather behaves in the coming weeks. Let’s hope for sunny skies and warm temperatures!
To make the most of this special time, I’ve put together some of the top spots around Toronto for cherry blossom viewing. Let’s dive in!
High Park
– Photo credit: randomfotographi
Where: 1873 Bloor St W
High Park is hands down the most popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Toronto, and for good reason. Most of the sakura trees gifted by Japan were planted here, making it the ultimate sakura wonderland once the flowers are in full bloom.
Walking among the rows of blossoms can make you feel like you’ve been transported to Tokyo.
Now, I must admit, this one isn’t exactly my favourite spot due to one simple reason: crowds. Hundreds of people flock here during peak bloom, so expect plenty of company.
But if you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that vehicle access will be restricted during peak bloom. Walking or biking is your best bet—and hey, the journey through spring air is part of the fun!
Trinity Bellwoods Park
– Photo credit: jgazze
Where: 790 Queen St W
Another cool spot you can check out is Trinity Bellwoods Park. This one is actually one of my preferred spots since there are way fewer people who gather here to experience the cherry blossom season.
But I guess that’s because the number of trees here is significantly lower than in High Park. You’ll find most of them in the park’s southern area near a circular pathway.
What’s also great about this park is that you can see the CN Tower from here. Imagine capturing a photo with the iconic tower in the background alongside blooming cherry blossoms. It’s such a picture-perfect scene.
Yorkville Park
– Photo credit: p_sparks
Where: 115 Cumberland St
For those wanting a more downtown vibe, Yorkville Park is an excellent choice. The cherry blossoms here line a charming pathway right beside restaurants and shops, so it’s a great mix of natural beauty and urban convenience.
What I love about this spot is the relaxed atmosphere, as most visitors are locals who are already familiar with sakura trees, so you can snap plenty of pictures without drawing too much attention. I know our camera-shy readers will appreciate that.
Personally, I recommend grabbing a coffee from a nearby cafe and enjoying the blooms at your own pace.
Centennial Park
– Photo credit: destination_toronto
Where: 256 Centennial Park Rd, Etobicoke
Centennial Park is another great place to enjoy the cherry blossom season because it has the second-largest collection of sakura trees, only beaten by High Park. If I remember it right, there are over 460 trees here!
They are scattered all over the park, but you’ll find most of them at the park’s garden near Rathburn Road and Centennial Park Boulevard. After admiring the blooms, you might enjoy exploring the park’s other features, like its soccer and baseball fields.
Exhibition Place
– Photo credit: explaceto
Where: 100 Princes’ Blvd
Exhibition Place is best known as the place where Toronto FC home games are played. But what you probably didn’t know is that it’s also one of the top spots to enjoy the cherry blossom season.
Yep, you read that right! As of 2025, there are 93 sakura trees spread across this place. You’ll find them in clusters at nine specific sections around the district, including Bandshell Park, Yukon Place, and the Princess Margaret Fountain.
Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre
– Photo credit: japanesecanadianculturalcentre
Where: 6 Sakura Way
Unsurprisingly, the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is another good spot for cherry blossom viewing. Their trees are relatively young since most were planted only about 20 years ago, but they’re still absolutely gorgeous when in full bloom.
You’ll find many of them on the northern side of the building, with some also scattered around the parking lot.
Visitors are asked to be respectful of the trees. No climbing or picking blossoms, please! Honestly, I think it’s a good rule to follow wherever you go, whether the trees are decades old or just starting to grow.
Oh, and by the way, another reason why you should visit here is the ongoing SakuraFest, which celebrates both the cherry blossom season and Japanese culture. It’s running this year from April 17 to May 11, so you can still join in on the fun.
