In Short
Every year between the end of March and mid-April, Hamburg suddenly becomes a little more delicate, colorful and – quite honestly – simply fabulously beautiful. If you take a walk through the city, you will hardly be able to miss them: the blossoming cherry trees that bathe parks, streets and squares in a pastel pink. The cherry blossoms in Hamburg have long been more than just a sign of spring. And because the trees don’t bloom forever, you shouldn’t miss out on this moment.
Here are some magical places where you can experience cherry blossoms in Hamburg – plus a few fun facts about the blossoms made in Japan.
🌸 Planten un Blomen – Flower Magic in the Japanese Garden
If you’re looking for a place that really feels like Japan, then the Japanese garden in Planten un Blomen park is it. Especially at cherry blossom time, the combination of Asian garden architecture, small ponds and these fluffy pink flowers looks almost surreally beautiful. The cherry trees here are numerous and densely planted – perfect for a little spring picnic or a meditative break on a bench. If you’re on Insta, you can get THE cherry blossom photo here.
🌸 Alster Shore & Alsterpark – Pink Reflections With a View of the Water
There are several spots around the Außenalster where there are individual cherry trees – not in dense avenues, but that’s what makes them so attractive. You’ll find them in Alsterpark in particular: Cherry blossoms plus water in the background simply make for a great photo motif. And if you want another highlight: take a look at the Binnenalster, where there are also some trees – and with the water fountain in the background, the whole thing almost looks like a painting.
🌸 Platz der Republik in Altona – Small, but absolutely magical
This rather inconspicuous park right next to Altona station is a real insider tip. Between the large statue and the manicured lawns are some huge cherry trees that completely wrap the Platz der Republik in pink and white. There is less going on here than in the larger parks – perfect for those who want to enjoy the spectacle in a quieter setting. One of our favorite places in spring!
🌸 Fischers Park – Blossoms between swings and football pitch
Fischer’s Park is also located in Altona, not far from Platz der Republik. The park itself is rather functional – with a playground, soccer pitch and giant red swings. But: right next to it, several cherry trees are in bloom, transforming this urban place into something truly magical for a few weeks.
🌸 Stadtpark – Cherry Meets Magnolia
The Stadtpark is of course the green heart of Hamburg’s north – and although there are only a few cherry trees there, it is definitely worth a visit when they are in bloom. Because what blooms almost more frequently here are the impressive magnolia trees. Their large, white to pale pink blossoms look almost like works of art and are the perfect complement to the more delicate cherry blossoms.
Why is Hamburg Blooming so Japanese?
It is no coincidence that the Hanseatic city is covered in pink every spring. In the 1960s, the Japanese community donated around 5,000 cherry trees to Hamburg – a sign of friendship and a start of the later city partnership with Osaka. The trees were planted along the banks of the Alster, near the Kennedy Bridge and on the Altona Balcony.
Since 1968, the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival has been celebrated in Hamburg every year – with everything that goes with it: Japanese culture, food, music and a spectacular fireworks display. In 2025, by the way, the big fireworks display will take place on May 23 at 10:30 pm over the Außenalster. And all around? The election of the Cherry Blossom Queen on May 24 and the Japan Festival on May 25. Save the dates – it’s worth it!
Practical Tips for Your Cherry Blossom Adventure
- Best time: End of March to mid-April – this varies depending on the weather. So keep your eyes open and be spontaneous!
- Timing: Early in the morning or during the week, you’ll have many of the popular spots almost to yourself.
- Don’t forget a picnic: Especially in Planten un Blomen and the Stadtpark, there are many quiet corners due to their size.
- Watch out for updates on the Cherry Blossom Festival: You will soon find detailed information on the 2025 festival program on the official website of the City of Hamburg or at Hamburg Tourismus GmbH.
Whether you are simply strolling through the parks or looking for the most beautiful trees, cherry blossom is one of the most romantic times of year in Hamburg. So grab your camera, a coffee to go and let yourself be enchanted by Hamburg’s spring magic.
Hungry after your walk through the cherry blossoms in Hamburg?
Then get inspired by our restaurant tips on Instagram!