Admire close to 40 varieties of cherry blossoms including an 8m-tall Somei Yoshino tree amid an Ishikawa-inspired landscape featuring picturesque recreations of traditional architecture

From today, visitors to Flower Dome can stroll through a recreation of old Japanese streets once walked by samurai and visit teahouses where geisha once gathered, as part of the 11th edition of Gardens by the Bay’s iconic Sakura (樱花展). Set against a breathtaking backdrop of cherry blossoms in delicate shades of soft pink and white, the floral display recreates the nostalgic landscapes of Japan’s Ishikawa Prefecture, inviting visitors to experience the beauty and traditions of sakura season.

Presented in partnership with the Embassy of Japan to Singapore, Sakura 2026 coincides with 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Japan. It was officially launched today by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Mr Gan Kim Yong, alongside Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh and the Ambassador of Japan in Singapore His Excellency Hiroshi Ishikawa. Sakura will run until April 15.

Gardens by the Bay CEO Mr Felix Loh said, “Sakura remains a much-loved tradition that our visitors look forward to each spring, and we continually strive to make each edition a special experience. Coaxing cherry blossoms to bloom in the tropics remains no small feat, and beyond crowd favourite cultivars, we introduce new varieties each year so our visitors have new blooms to enjoy. Each edition of Sakura also spotlights a region of Japan, celebrating its landscapes, traditions and cultural heritage. This year, as Singapore and Japan mark 60 years of diplomatic relations, we are honoured to spotlight Ishikawa Prefecture, bringing the nostalgic charms of its samurai and geisha legacy to Flower Dome for the first time.”

Cherry blossom highlights

Visitors can admire close to 40 varieties of cherry blossoms throughout the display, showcasing a range of silhouettes from elegant upright forms to cascading weeping branches, in soft shades of pink and white.

Among the highlights is the return of popular cultivars Prunus ‘Pink Perfection’, admired for its dense clusters of soft pink double-petalled blooms, and an 8m-tall Prunus ‘Somei Yoshino’, well-loved in Japan for its delicate blossoms that soften from pale pink to near white at full bloom. Also featured are Prunus ‘Kiku Shidare’, known for its richly layered blossoms resembling delicate pink pom-poms, and Prunus pendula, recognised for its graceful weeping form.

A new addition this year is Prunus ‘Jugatsu’, known in Japan as the “October cherry”, specially chosen for its rare habit of flowering in both autumn and spring. It bears small, semi-double blossoms in soft pale pink that often fade to near white.

Adding to the seasonal spectacle is Prunus persica ‘Hanamomo’, an ornamental flowering peach commonly seen in Japanese spring landscapes, bringing vibrant bursts of colour to the display.

Experiencing Ishikawa in Bloom

Ishikawa Prefecture is home to the historic city of Kanazawa, known for its preserved samurai districts, geisha quarters and traditional crafts.

During the Edo period, the Maeda family ruled the Kaga domain centred in Kanazawa and championed the development of arts and crafts in the region. Against the backdrop of the pink and white blossoms, the centrepiece of the floral display is a recreation of the two-storey Nomura residence, modelled after the former home of a samurai of the Maeda clan, now maintained as a historic house. The house features an engawa, or veranda, overlooking a serene courtyard garden — a space traditionally used to enjoy the outdoors from within the home.

Traditional arts associated with Ishikawa are also showcased within the residence, including gold leaf craftsmanship, lacquerware, silk dyeing and Kutani porcelain, which have been flown in specially from the region for this display. Visitors can also walk through a colourful walkway of columns adorned with different kimono patterns, showcasing the variety and craftsmanship of this traditional Japanese attire.

Sakura also introduces a rain feature inspired by Kanazawa’s famously wet climate, allowing visitors to experience cherry blossoms framed by a gentle curtain of rain. From there, visitors move along a pathway lined with lattice-covered façades inspired by Higashi Chaya, Kanazawa’s traditional teahouse district.

A tribute to Kenrokuen, regarded as one of Japan’s Three Great Landscape Gardens, comes in the form of a bridge overlooking a tranquil body of water and framed by cascading blossoms and stone lanterns, reflecting the serene balance characteristic of traditional Japanese garden design. The display also features a façade inspired by the main hall of the 1,300-year-old Natadera Temple, which is backed by the jagged rock formations of Mount Haku, where meditation caves are carved into the cliffs.

Visitors can also get a glimpse of the traditional sake brewing process that Ishikawa is known for, which uses pure mountain water and craftsmanship honed over generations to produce sake known for its smooth and well-balanced flavour.

@thenewageparents Spring has sprung, and it’s extra kawaii this year! 🌸✨ We just stepped into the Flower Dome and found the most magical surprise- adorable Sanrio characters hiding amongst the cherry blossoms! From Hello Kitty to Kuromi, it’s the ultimate family photo op. Plus, don’t miss the massive 8m tall cherry tree and the Anime Garden concert next weekend (Mar 21-22). Save this for your next family outing! 👇❤️ 📍 Sakura floral display at Gardens by the Bay until April 15. #SingaporeParents #FamilyDaysOut #Sakura #WhatToDoInSingapore #KidsActivitiesSG ♬ Hello Kitty Vibes – BDR Music

Adding a touch of whimsy to the display, familiar Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll and Kuromi can be spotted among the blossoms in the display.

📅 13 Mar to 15 Apr 2026
🕙 9am – 9pm
📍 Flower Dome
🏷 Admission charge to Flower Dome applies

You can also get tickets via Klook, Fever, Pelago and KKday.

Visit here for details.

Cosplay and anisong concerts at Anime Garden next weekend

Anime fans can look forward to the return of Anime Garden at the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome on March 21 and 22. The event brings together anime, music and cosplay in a dynamic two-day celebration.

Visitors will have a chance to meet celebrity cosplayers Thames Malerose and Munoko and catch high-energy performances by outstanding homegrown and regional talents. As night falls, the excitement continues with two electrifying concerts featuring acclaimed Japanese artists yanaginagi, Eir Aoi, KIHOW from MYTH & ROID, and ZAQ performing crowd-favourite anisongs and J-pop hits beneath the Supertrees.

There will also be a bustling marketplace filled with exclusive merchandise, collectibles and a variety of food offerings.

JAPANESE CULTURAL SHOWCASE IN FLOWER DOME

Discover the wonders of Japanese culture alongside the Sakura floral display. Witness captivating performances such as elegant traditional dances, powerful taiko drumming, the serene sounds of the koto, as well as traditional tea ceremonies, brought to you in partnership with the Embassy of Japan’s Japan Creative Centre.

📅 14 & 15 Mar 2026
🕙 Various timings (refer to programme below)
📍 Flower Field Hall, Flower Dome
🏷 Programmes are free. Admission charge to Flower Dome applies.

Visit here for more information.

Information is correct to date and may be subject to change.

Sakura Fair – Touring Springtime Japan and Mochi-Pounding Demonstration

Step into a vibrant celebration of Japan at the Touring Springtime Japan showcase, where the sights, sounds and flavours of six distinctive regions come together in one dynamic experience. Discover the unique character of each prefecture, from cultural traditions to culinary highlights, and savour a selection of authentic Japanese treats.

Be sure to catch the live mochi-pounding demonstration, a time-honoured ritual performed by skilled artisans who rhythmically wield wooden mallets to transform steamed rice into soft, chewy mochi, a beloved Japanese delicacy.

Koto – Traditional Japanese Instrument Performance

The Koto Club, Japanese Association Singapore is a club whose goal is to represent Japanese culture and aesthetic values in Singapore through the traditional instrument of Koto.

Sendai Suzume Odori – Sparrow Dance Performance

The Sparrow Dance originates from Sendai City, in Tohoku, Northern Japan. This dance was created by the stone masons when they celebrated the newly built Sendai Castle about 400 years ago. The name comes from the dance movements that resemble sparrows picking up food. Today, this dance is the main attraction during the Sendai Aoba Festival.

Ladies and Men’s Chorus

The Ladies’ and Men’s Chorus from the Japanese Association will present a repertoire of songs from Japan and Singapore, filling the Flower Field Hall with harmonious melodies.

Japanese Drum Performance

The Japanese Drum Group is one of the oldest clubs within the Japanese Association, dedicated to preserving traditions passed down through generations while continually refining its craft and celebrating the joy of taiko drumming.

Yosakoi Shisai – Traditional Japanese Dance Performance

Yosakoi Shisai is a dynamic dance group that brings the vibrant spirit of Yosakoi, a traditional dance from Kochi Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, to life. Known for its explosive energy, Yosakoi combines the rhythmic sound of naruko wooden clappers with fast-paced, captivating choreography. While rooted in tradition, it fuses creativity and modern flair, creating a truly unique and thrilling experience.

Minyou – Traditional Japanese Folk Dance Performance

Dance along with the Minyou Folk Dance Club of The Japanese Association, Singapore, as they showcase traditional folk dances from all over Japan. They will be dancing the Bon Odori, which was uniquely choreographed in Singapore, to the live vocals of singer Ryna Smile.

Movie Screening – Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky

Bring your family to enjoy the beauty of hanami, followed by a special screening of Castle in the Sky, the beloved animated adventure by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. The story follows young miner Pazu, who encounters Sheeta, a mysterious girl drifting down from the sky in a radiant blue glow. As they evade air pirates and government agents determined to capture her, the pair set off on a thrilling quest to uncover Laputa, a legendary castle floating high above the clouds. With Sheeta’s Levitation Crystal guiding their way and danger close behind, this timeless tale of courage, friendship and wonder promises an enchanting cinematic experience for audiences of all ages.

Japanese Tea Ceremony Demonstration and Experience

Experience the art of the Japanese tea ceremony amidst the stunning Sakura floral display. Also known as Chanoyu or Chado, this centuries-old tradition involves the graceful preparation and serving of matcha, accompanied by a Japanese sweet. Witness a live demonstration by tea masters from Omotesenke Hoseikai Singapore and Chado Urasenke Tankokai Singapore Association. Visitors may choose to experience the tea ceremony on a pay-as-you-like basis, with all proceeds going to Gardens by the Bay’s Gift of Gardens community outreach programme, that provides complimentary access to the cooled conservatories to beneficiaries from various social service agencies.

ANIME GARDEN（动漫花园）

This March, step into a world where anime, music, and cosplay collide. Meet iconic celebrity cosplayers, catch high-energy performances by outstanding homegrown talents, and wander through a vibrant marketplace packed with exclusive merch, collectibles, and irresistible bites. When night falls, the excitement levels up with two electrifying concert nights, featuring acclaimed Japanese artists performing crowd-favourite anisongs and J-pop hits under the stars.

📅 21 & 22 Mar 2026
🕙 3pm to 9pm
📍 Supertree Grove and Flower Dome
🏷 Admission is free

Visit here for more details.

*Information is correct to date and may be subject to change
^Queue opens 15 minutes before each session, and participants are capped at 100 pax.
#Admission to Flower Dome applies

Anime Marketplace

Unwind and soak in the atmosphere at the Matsuri Marketplace. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! Indulge in local delights and IG-worthy food trends, and browse anime merchandise at the colourful retail booths.

Daytime Stage

Kickstart Anime Garden weekend at Supertree Grove with a vibrant line-up featuring rising Japanese artists alongside outstanding local talents. This specially curated stage brings together cross-border creativity, spotlighting the next wave of J-pop acts while celebrating Singapore’s own homegrown performers. From high-energy idol sets to captivating solo showcases, the afternoon programme builds momentum and excitement, setting the perfect tone as the festival leads into the evening concerts under the stars.

Anime Concert

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in two unforgettable concert nights featuring renowned Japanese artists. Experience the electrifying I Love Anisong concerts, where iconic anime music comes to life through powerful vocals and high-energy performances. Sing along to your favourite anthems and be part of an extraordinary celebration of Japanese music and culture!

Cosplayer Meet and Greet

Meet Munoko (沐子) and Thames Malerose at Flower Dome for unforgettable fan moments and photo opportunities, followed by an exclusive autograph and Hi-Touch session at Supertree Grove. Bring your official merchandise to join the signing session and take home a special memory!

Cosplay Singles Competition

Step into the spotlight at the Anime Garden Cosplay Singles Competition! Talented finalists will take centrestage, striking dynamic poses and showcasing their stunning costumes as they compete for exciting prizes.

MARCH SCHOOL HOLIDAY 2026

The one-week March school break is here! Looking for ways to keep the little ones engaged? Check out our curated list of fun and exciting activities for the March School Holidays 2026.

✨ HARI RAYA PUASA 2026 ✨

Celebrate Hari Raya Puasa with family, festivities, and feasts! Whether you’re looking for exciting places to visit or the best spots to shop for Raya essentials, we’ve got you covered. Check out our curated lists of Where to Go During Hari Raya Puasa and Where to Shop for Hari Raya in Singapore.

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