Missed the April Sakura Season? Head to the Auburn Botanic Gardens for Australia’s second chance.

Sydney is preparing for a burst of soft pink petals across the ‘Emerald City’. It’s almost Spring and the return of the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival at Auburn Botanic Gardens. With more than 200 cherry blossom trees, the festival is one of Sydney’s most anticipated garden events of the year, bringing in thousands of visitors every year. Yes, that means you will need to buy a ticket to attend, but it’s worth it for the gorgeous flowers and bonus events in the garden. 

Japan’s Sakura season is high on my travel wishlist. Its beautiful and soothing aesthetics feature in almost every postcard I have received. Ever since my Japanese studies in high school, I have always wanted to attend a picnic under the cherry blossoms; maybe even catch a petal in my cup. Unfortunately, I can’t travel right now (due to injury) and I missed Japan’s season, but I have the next best thing: a cherry blossom season here in Sydney!

Back in 1968, the Auburn City Council and then-Chief Engineer, Eric Black, had the vision to create a public space that invited and represented its growing multicultural identity. While the Botanic Gardens never quite reached Black’s ideals, the gardens do provide a magnificent backdrop for a variety of events throughout the year; most notably the famous Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival. 

This festival is more than a picnic in the park. The gardens are designed to escort visitors through a grove of blossoms and architecture with views that lead both outwards to beauty and inwards for reflection. Surprisingly, the blossoms are not the centre focus. That attention is given to the lake, with a display of colours guiding around the water. It flows from east to west, harmonising with energy lines to bring health and happiness to visitors. There are smooth waterfalls, red bridges, and peaceful rocks with softened edges. Even with crowds of people, I still found it a tranquil stroll between open spaces and marshalled walkways that led to a plethora of views. 

One day, I’ll make it to Japan. Maybe to the Aichi Prefecture, with the Korankei Maple Festival and its unique Autumn cherry blossoms. Until then, I have plenty of joy with the Auburn Botanic Gardens and the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival. 

When is the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival?

The ticketed event runs from Saturday, 16 August to Sunday, 24 August 2025. Gates open at 9 am daily, with full access available to the gardens until 4.45 pm. The tickets include a self-guided walk along the specially curated Cherry Blossom Trail, part of the Japanese Gardens inside the Auburn Botanic Gardens. 

Where do we go for the Festival?

The Auburn Botanic Gardens are part of the Cumberland City Council in Sydney’s western suburbs. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Sydney CBD, with the closest train station being Auburn. Some buses stop within a few blocks of the gardens. If you intend to drive, plan for parking. Organisers and local council employees are often available to direct you to the specific carparking space. However, if that fills, be prepared for a bit of a walk, and please be respectful to local residents. 

What’s included in my ticket?

Due to the popularity and upkeep of the event, the Festival is ticketed and can sell out fast. Adult tickets are $16.60, children (5-16yo) and seniors are $8.95, and family tickets (2A, 2C) are $44.65. Local residents of Cumberland Shire are welcome at no cost. Your ticket includes access to the Cherry Blossom Trail, live performances on the Sakura Stage, workshops in the Takumi Pavilion, and access to the Japanese Food Village. There are picnic tables located around the food village, with some space for picnic blankets near the small water area. 

Bonus tips to ponder under the petals

I genuinely loved this experience and will recommend it to one and all. However, it is a very popular event, with large crowds expected on the weekend. If you prefer wide open personal space, avoid the weekends. Perhaps take a personal leave day and enjoy a quieter, slower pace around the gardens. 

Also, be prepared for plenty of photographers. The blossoms–nay, the entire gardens are gorgeous in their beauty, light, and contrast. Even on wet-weather days, the trees offer a simple landscape shaped with texture and colour. Everyone wants to stop and grab a photo. 

Speaking of the weather, the event will continue no matter the weather. If it has rained for a few days, be prepared for muddy ground that has been stirred up with crowds walking through. Most of the petals are pretty sturdy and should last the whole season (except for severe storms). While August 2025 is predicted to be wetter than usual, be prepared for sudden bursts of sunshine. Bring a hat, or better yet: a parasol! Light enough to keep the sun off without distracting from the view. 

And finally: enjoy the opportunity! Australia has many Japanese-inspired gardens, thanks to a rush of tourism/diplomatic relationships during the 1980s and 1990s. Auburn Botanic Gardens is merely one of many locations to find cherry blossoms at this time of year. May you discover your own local tranquillity, and catch a cherry blossom petal in your cup!

For more details about the Cherry Blossom Trail, visit the official Cumberland City Council website here. Tickets are on sale now here. And if you’re looking for more tips and ideas for your next Sydney adventure, why not book a consultation with me through Solo Trvlr. It’s a great way to have a one-on-one conversation with real advice from someone who has been here and done that. Follow the link here.