Every spring, the Parc de Sceaux becomes one of the most anticipated destinations for Île-de-France residents. In this corner of the Hauts-de-Seine, laid out by Le Nôtre and easily reachable from Paris via the RER B, the Japanese cherry trees in bloom draw thousands of visitors who come to celebrate the Japanese tradition of hanami — a gentle way to mark the arrival of spring by admiring the sakura in good company. For the 2026 edition, rules have changed: access to the northern bosquet lawns, the heart of the spectacle, now requires a prior reservation. The bloom is expected from April 4 to 21, 2026, and time slots are available on the site of the Domaine. Each day, openings are released for closer viewing.
Don’t worry: just because access behind the fences is by reservation doesn’t mean you can’t admire them as we do along the walkways. In fact, there’s a new surprise this year: you can pay 50 euros to reach an open platform after 10:00 a.m., which offers a bird’s-eye view of the park. It’s a fresh perspective that we found especially appealing.
A range of activities unfolds across the park, and a sweeping field of towering flowers sets the backdrop in front of the central tent, where sun loungers await us to soak up the sun.
Feeling a bit peckish? Ramen, takoyaki, or bubble tea are on the menu.
The decision by the Hauts-de-Seine Department is based on a tangible reality. The 144 Japanese cherry trees that make up the northern groves, some centuries old and adorned with their delicate pink blossoms, are showing signs of weakness at their roots due to a fungal infection in the soil. To protect these trees while still allowing visitors to enjoy them, the park has implemented a scheduling system with designated time slots.
3,500 spots are offered each day: 1,400 booked in advance and 2,100 available on the day, for those who test their luck at the last minute. The system is designed to let everyone enjoy the view from the belvedere, with the flowering cherry trees in the background, without compromising their vitality for years to come.
To reserve your time slot, you have two options: visit the official Domaine de Sceaux website or scan the QR code displayed on the information boards at the park entrance.
Spring picnic enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief: the tradition remains alive. Blankets and baskets are still welcome along the canal and in the so-called "Hanami Heart" area. However, setting up directly under the cherry trees in the northern grove—now designated as a protected zone—will no longer be permitted. This is a reasonable restriction, if we want to continue enjoying this spectacle for years to come.
The southern grove continues to showcase its delicate white blossoms freely, with no special access restrictions. Overall, the park remains open to visitors with free entry from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. For a calmer atmosphere, it's recommended to visit on weekdays and right at opening time, when the morning light best highlights the softest pink hues of the flowers.
Hanami in Sceaux: City’s Lineup for Japan 2026 Celebrations
The town of Sceaux is celebrating Hanami, not just in the Sceaux Park but throughout the town with a series of lively events. From April 4 to 19, 2026, a packed program awaits visitors, including a market, workshops, concerts, martial arts demonstrations, and traditional Japanese performances. We’ve got all the details. [Read more]
The estate will also host its own events from April 4 to 19:
Full schedule and reservations available at domaine-de-sceaux.hauts-de-seine.fr.
The Domaine de Sceaux is easily reachable from Paris via the RER B train line (stations at Parc de Sceaux or Bourg-la-Reine). Tickets for the 2026 hanami event go on sale on March 15, 2026, through the official Domaine website. The cherry blossom bloom is expected to take place from April 4 to April 21, 2026. Better be quick to secure your spot!
Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.
Dates and Opening Time
From April 4, 2026 to April 20, 2026
Location
Parc Departmental de Sceaux
38 Avenue Alphonse Cherrier
92330 Sceaux
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Official website
domaine-de-sceaux.hauts-de-seine.fr
