Every spring, the Sceaux Park transforms into one of the most eagerly anticipated events for Ile-de-France residents. Located in the Hauts-de-Seine department, designed by Le Nôtre and easily accessible from Paris via the RER B, the Japanese cherry blossoms draw thousands of visitors each year, eager to celebrate the Japanese tradition of hanami — a gentle way to welcome spring by admiring sakura in good company. For the 2026 edition, the rules are changing: access to the northern grove, the heart of the spectacle, now requires a prior reservation. The bloom is anticipated to occur from April 4 to April 21, 2026, with time slots available on the Domaine’s website starting from March 15, 2026.
The answer largely depends on one's attitude towards spontaneity. For those who have already experienced a sunny April Saturday trapped amid a dense crowd, barely able to lift their eyes toward the flowers due to the overwhelming pressure of the masses, this change feels more like good news. No more jostling, pushing, or picnic blankets crammed together under the trees. The visit is bound to become more peaceful and enjoyable.
But for spontaneous outing lovers—those who decide on a whim in the morning to take advantage of a lovely April day in Sceaux—the news is a bit more difficult to swallow. From now on, planning ahead will be necessary, and perhaps that’s the true shift for spring 2026.
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 available daily: 1,400 can be booked in advance, while 2,100 are open on the day itself for spontaneous visitors. This setup aims to ensure everyone has a chance to enjoy the breathtaking view from the lookout, with the cherry blossoms in full bloom providing a stunning backdrop—while also safeguarding the trees’ health for years to come.
To secure a time slot, you have two options: visit the official website of Domaine de Sceaux or scan the QR code displayed on the information signs at the park entrance. Ticket sales start on March 15, 2026, so mark that date now, as weekend slots are likely to fill up quickly.
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.
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!
Dates and Opening Time
From April 4, 2026 to April 21, 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
