Will I definitely see cherry blossoms?

It is never guaranteed. If you miss the peak bloom in Tokyo/Kyoto, you can often take a train further north to cities like Sendai or Aomori where the season starts later.

Do I need to make restaurant reservations?

Yes, especially for dinner. During cherry blossom season, popular restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo fill up weeks in advance.

Planning a Cherry Blossom Trip to Japan

Plan to travel between late March and early April, focusing your itinerary around the 'sakura front' that moves from south to north. Book your accommodation at least six months in advance, as hotels fill up rapidly during this peak season.

Track the Sakura Forecast. Monitor the Japan Meteorological Corporation’s official forecast starting in January. Blossoms usually hit Tokyo and Kyoto in the last week of March, but weather variations can shift this by up to 10 days.
Secure Flights and Lodging Early. Book your international flights and hotels 6 to 9 months ahead. If you wait until the dates are confirmed, prices will triple and availability will be non-existent in major cities.
Choose a Base. Pick one primary city to avoid constant packing. Kyoto is the most iconic, but Tokyo offers more variety if you miss the peak bloom in one area; take the Shinkansen to chase the blossoms if needed.
Plan for Crowds. Accept that popular spots like Ueno Park or Maruyama Park will be packed. Visit at 6:00 AM to get photos without hundreds of people in the background.

Will I definitely see cherry blossoms?: It is never guaranteed. If you miss the peak bloom in Tokyo/Kyoto, you can often take a train further north to cities like Sendai or Aomori where the season starts later.
Do I need to make restaurant reservations?: Yes, especially for dinner. During cherry blossom season, popular restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo fill up weeks in advance.