MARCH 2023, UPDATED 2026

If you are looking for the perfect spring activity, look no further than visiting the Japanese garden in Hasselt. The garden usually reopens after the winter close at the end of March and in 2023 and 2025 I was able to visit. The cherry blossom magic usually lasts from the end of March until Half April. Japan during cherry blossom season is still on my wish-list, but at least I have been to Hasselt 😉

Practical information

Tickets for the Japanese garden in Hasselt cost € 7 per adult. Over the years the garden has become pretty popular and during the cherry blossom season you have to buy your tickets in advance on the official website. This is new since 2026, tickets do sell out on weekends, so book ahead! If possible, it is best to visit during the week. There is sufficient parking near the entrance. The garden usually closes for the winter and reopens for the cherry blossom season at the end of March. There are two times when it is particularly interesting to visit the gardens: during spring when the cherries are in bloom and in fall for the fall foliage. Check out the opening hours on the official website. During the weekends and during events the Japanese garden also has food stands. You are allowed to bring your own picnic though!

Cherry blossom season

You probably already know that I always try to scout the best locations for spring blossoms and the Japanese garden is definitely included on my list. We visited on March 24 2023, when the first round of blossoms had just opened up. I expect that there will be even more blossoms in April, so it is definitely worth it to bring a visit in the next few weeks. I loved the traditional Japanese garden with the pink touches of the blossoms. We visited on a Friday morning and did not find it very crowded at all, it was very cold so that might have been a factor. In my pictures below I will try to give you an impression of this beautiful garden and how incredibly well maintained it was.

2025 pictures

While I was updating this blogpost I realized I never posted my 2025 pictures. In 2025 we visited on March 28 and especially the back part of the garden was in full bloom and incredibly pink. It was true magic and much better weather than in 2023, so I am including some pictures.

Restaurant recommendation Hasselt

If you are looking for a good combo, try visiting the city center of Hasselt. In 2026 I visited the amazing Bocca Nera restaurant and I wouldn’t want to keep it from you. If visiting during the weekend it is smart to make reservations ahead of time. The restaurant has an Italian shared dining concept and all the dishes were delicious!

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