Heading to Japan to see the blossoming sakura is on the bucket lists of many floral fans. According to all the flowery forecasts for 2024, late March and April is the time to do it. However, if you can’t get yourself to the blooming cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, there are a few spots right here on the red dot where you can witness Singapore’s version of sakura.
While cherry blossoms are not native in the Lion City, “trumpet trees” – Singapore’s version of pink and white version of sakura – also bloom between March and April according to National Parks Board (NParks).
Singapore’s “sakura” trees typically flower after spells of hot, dry weather and heavy rain last for several days before falling to the ground. While we can’t guarantee that they’ll be out in force over the following weeks (hello climate change), being out in nature is a winner for health and wellbeing, plus they make very pretty pictures. With a host of soothing parks and open spaces in Singapore, here’s where to look out for sightings.
Gardens by the Bay
Japan comes to Gardens by the Bay this March with its annual sakura floral display featuring over 150 cherry blossom trees of over 40 varieties. If you think that sounds pretty, for the first time in the display’s nine-year history, the daytime experience extends into a nighttime one, showcasing all kinds of magic, including light projections in the Flower Dome. A shimmering pavilion reminiscent of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) takes centre stage, which includes an actual temple, miniature traditional thatched house from Miyama Village, and elements of Japanese gardens. As dusk falls, the cherry blossom trees will be illuminated in the same way they’re lit up in Japan during sakura season, creating an alternative way to experience the wow.
From March 22 to April 21. gardensbythebay.com.sg
Japanese Cemetery Park
This lovely Japanese Cemetery Park is well-known for being the largest and well-preserved Japanese cemetery in Southeast Asia. After an everlasting renovation, it’s back and more beautiful than ever with updated bridges, streams, open spaces, mini prayer hall and a showstopping gorgeous floral arch, adorned with pink trumpet flowers. The arch stretches from one end to the other of the park, making you feel like you’re in some kind of period drama as you stroll beneath the petals.
825B Chuan Hoe Avenue, 54985
Bishan-AMK Park
Bishan-AMK Park is a brilliant park, full of vast, open spaces, and home to the joy that is Aramsa Spa (currently having a face lift, but watch this space). Packed with pretty spots, we say head there to catch a glimpse of the trumpet trees forming a sweeping carpet, then head to the spa for a pampering session to make you feel as fresh as the flowers.
Connaught Drive, Singapore 179682
Telok Blangah Hill Park
Telok Blangah Hill Park Around this time of year, Telok Blangah Hill Park can resemble a fairytale garden with its terrace surrounded by a sea of not only pink trumpet petals, but stunning bougainvillea flowers. Stroll down the stone steps and strike a pose for some excellent insta snaps.
10 Telok Blangah Green, 109178 (15 minutes away from the Telok Blangah MRT station)
East Coast Park
Combine flowery wonder with fitness as you get on your bike and cycle past the dazzling displays along East Coast Park. Go far enough (past PS Café at least) and you’ll also come across a bougainvillea garden which includes many a trumpet shrub with views of the beach and sea behind them.
Ulu Pandan Park Connector
A bit of a hidden gem this one, Ulu Pandan Park Connector boasts flowering trees along this specific stretch giving a rustic charm similar to the streets of Japan. Run, rollerblade, or cycle past the “sakura” offerings before embarking on some otter-spotting. An eclectic combination of activities if ever there was one!
Western Ulu Pandan Park Connector, Bukit Batok East Ave 2
