Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo: Must Go places and Tips

Sakura, or blooming Cherry blossom tree time is one of the beautiful time of season of the year. Late March to early April is usually the best time to see wonders in full bloom in Tokyo area. Here are some hotspots worth visiting, how to snag the perfect timing for your trip, and some hidden cherry blossom places where you can feel the Sakura magic.

Popular Cherry Blossom Spots to visit

Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park: When you are in Tokyo, you can’t miss these major spots. These places throw spring parties like no other, hanami, or flower viewing with food and picnic mattress. It gets crowded but thats part of enjoying festive season. People are out and feel the joy of the arrival of spring season. You will experience organized chaos, like Japan has their own unique way to making chaos in its order in packed area. If you want to feel the vibe, these spots are worth visiting.

Plan the Perfect Timing Like Professional Traveller

Timing is the key with Japanese cherry blossoms! They are here today, could be gone by tomorrow, for real. The cherry blossom season only last about two weeks, and the weather plays important role. Luckily, there is a Sakura Navi app and it gives you real-time updates in the areas you hit. You should definitely check the app out when you are staying in Tokyo during this time of the season. If you are early bird or latecomer, don’t worry. You can visit Izu Peninsula for early blooms, and you can hit mountain areas nearby Tokyo and Tohoku for late-blooming. With Japan’s sophisticated train system, catching blossoms at their peak is easier than you think.

Off the Rador Cherry Blossom Spots

For those who want to avoid crowd, there are some quiet areas you can go.

Sumida Park: Near Asakusa and The Tokyo Skytree. This park is located by Sumida River with about 500 cherry trees. Boat rides, evening illuminations and great views can add the charm.

Kasai Rinkai Park: With only 14 minutes train ride from Tokyo Station, you can enjoy over 700 cherry trees, ferris wheel and beac views. There is also an aquarium in the park.

Shioiri Park: Located in Koto ward, north of Sumida Park. 10 minutes walk from Metro Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station. Small and quiet park with local atmosphere, have over 250 cherry trees. Central park area with the best picnic spaces.

Asukayama Park: Established in 1737 by Shogun Tokunaga Yoshimune, and the park is one of the oldest public parks. This historic site located near Metro Oji Station in northern part of Tokyo, with over 650 cherry trees. Enjoy Sakura Tram’s scenery.

Sotobori Park: Accessible from Yotsuya, Ichigaya or Iidabashi Stations. About 2 kilometer of beautiful waterside paths, bridges, trains and cherry trees lining both sides. Unique cherry blossom viewing features includes water reflections, urban landscape integration and historic wall backgrounds.

Toneri Park: Nippori-Toneri Liner will take you to the park located on Adachi ward, northern part of Tokyo. Over 1,000 cherry trees and Senbonzakura Festival in the late March.

Yanaka Cemetery: Calm and melancholy scenery, the spot offers astonishing cherry tree views. Not for picnic but perfect for peaceful time.

Jindai Botanical Garden: The garden located in Chofu, with over 750 cherry trees. Great for those who missed the main blooming timing.

Tips for Cherry Blossom Season

Plan Ahead: Use apps and forecasts to track latest information.

Explore Sakura themed food: Cherry blossom themed foods could be found everywhere during the season. Here are some cafe information with cherry blossom views. Visit with fewer crowds or visit early morning is recommended.

Canal cafe: Near Iidabashi Station has deck seating facing with cherry trees.

Starbucks Ueno Onishi Park: Located inside Ueno Park. Outdoor seating with park views.

Night Visit: Illumination creates magical glow on cherry blossoms.

Chidorigafuchi Park: 5 minutes walk from Metro Kudanshita Station. They have about 260 cherry trees.

Meguro River: 5 Minutes walk from Metro Nakameguro Station. Over 800 cherry trees along 4 km of riverbank.

Mind your Manners: Respect local customs and the environment when traveling different cultures. If you are not sure, watch how locals behave would be helpful.

Cherry blossoms season in Tokyo is wondrous experience to have, whether you visit popular park or finding cherry tree on small alley. WIth a little planning ahead will make your trip unforgettable for sure.

Share your cherry blossom stories in the comments and enjoy Hanami!

If you want to read more about how to avoid crowds in Tokyo sakura season