Spring in Melbourne is full of delights, including enjoying festivals and events, planning a sneaky getaway, or visiting one of the city’s many gorgeous gardens to admire spring flowers – especially the cherry blossoms.

Cherry blossoms hold a special place in Japanese culture. The Japanese honor the spring blossoms, called sakura, by having picnics under the blooming trees. These blossoms are cherished so much that they have been designated as Japan’s national flower, symbolizing renewal and hope.

Fortunately for those in Melbourne, there are various locations nearby where you can witness cherry blossoms in full bloom. We’ve compiled our top recommendations below, so take a look and plan a visit to these sites – it’s a wonderful chance to capture beautiful memories in photos.

When do cherry blossoms bloom in Melbourne?

The cherry blossom season typically begins in the last week of September and lasts until around the end of the first week of October. This signifies a brief two-week window to witness these stunning blooms, embodying the ancient Buddhist wabi-sabi philosophy of cherishing beauty that is transient or impermanent.

“The cherry tree sheds its leaves in autumn and becomes dormant in winter, then in spring it produces blossoms that are pollinated by bees,” says Krys Barker of Cherry Hill Orchards.

“Once pollinated, the blossom petals fall away, leaving the ‘baby’ cherry. The cherry subsequently grows larger and redder, maturing around mid-November. The cherries are ripe and ready for picking between November and January – then the cycle starts anew.”

Are cherry blossoms always pink?

Contrary to common belief, cherry blossoms are not solely pink; they come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and green.