Question
I’m planning a trip to Kyoto during the cherry blossom season. I want to experience hanami by the river. How do I ask, “Where is a good place for hanami nearby?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
近（ちか）くで花見（はなみ）ができる場所（ばしょ）はどこですか。
Chikaku de hanami ga dekiru basho wa doko desuka?
Where is a good place for hanami nearby?
Cherry blossom viewing, or “hanami,” is a popular cultural activity in Japan, especially in spring. The word “chikaku” means “nearby,” “hanami ga dekiru” means “can do hanami,” and “basho wa doko desuka?” means “where is the place?” You can use this phrase to ask locals or hotel staff to recommend a nearby spot for cherry blossom viewing.
This expression “chikaku de activity ga dekiru place wa doko desuka?” is adaptable, so you can replace “hanami” with other activities like “shopping” (買（か）い物（もの）, kaimono) or “dining” (食事（しょくじ）, shokuji) as per your plans.
