Every spring, Tokyo transforms into a vibrant city of pink and white as cherry blossoms, or sakura, come into full bloom. Known for its stunning parks, riversides, and gardens, Tokyo offers some of the best cherry blossom viewing experiences – otherwise known as Hanami – in Japan. Whether you’re planning a hanami picnic under the blossoms in Ueno Park, taking a romantic stroll along the Meguro River, or capturing breathtaking photos in Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo’s sakura season is a must-see. In this article, we’ll go over our favourite spots for Cherry blossoms in Tokyo.
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Ueno Park
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most famous parks, home to one of the largest green spaces in Tokyo. Found just outside of JR Ueno Station, Ueno Park is home to over 1000 trees, making hanami a true spectacle. During peak season from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, there is even an illumination festival to light up the Cherry Blossoms after dark. Ueno Park is probably one of the busiest places in Tokyo during Hanami, so be prepared for crowds and queues.
Access: Ueno Park can be found directly outside of Ueno Station.
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of Tokyo’s most famous and picturesque spots for enjoying cherry blossoms during spring. Known for its tranquil beauty and vast size, the garden offers an unforgettable hanami experience. Shinjuku Gyoen boasts over 1,000 cherry trees of around 65 different species, offering an extended cherry blossom season.
Access: 500JPY entry fee (reservations required during Cherry Blossom season), located about a 10 minute walk from Shinjuku Station.
Meguro River
The Meguro River is one of Tokyo’s most iconic and atmospheric spots for cherry blossom viewing. Famous for its picturesque riverside lined with sakura trees, it attracts thousands of visitors every spring to enjoy the enchanting scenery. Over 800 cherry trees line both sides of the river, creating a tunnel of blossoms during peak bloom. At night, the sakura trees are illuminated with soft, warm lighting, creating a magical ambiance known as yozakura (nighttime cherry blossoms). Unlike traditional hanami, which involves picnicking under the trees, Meguro River’s hanami is enjoyed by strolling along the riverside.
Access: The 3.8-kilometer stretch of sakura trees, from Ikejiri-Ohashi Station to Meguro Station, offers plenty of scenic spots and Instagram-worthy views.
Kitanomaru Park
Hundreds of Cherry Blossoms line the moats of the former Edo Castle. Found along Kitanomaru Park and Chidorigafuchi, this area is one of the most popular spots in Tokyo. Many visitors will rent a row boat and paddle in the old castle moat, creating a unique way to see Cherry Blossoms. At night, the sakura are illuminated for a magical atmosphere.
Access: Kitanomaru Park can be found just a short from Kudanshita Station on the Tokyo Metro.
Koishikawa Botanical Gardens
Koishikawa Botanical Garden, managed by the University of Tokyo, is a hidden gem for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo. It offers a quieter and more natural hanami experience compared to the bustling city parks.
The garden features a mix of cultivated and wild cherry trees, creating a serene and diverse hanami setting. Species include Somei Yoshino, weeping cherry trees (Shidare-zakura), and other rarer varieties, blooming at slightly different times.
Accesss: 500 JPY Entry free. 9:00am to 4:30pm (last entry at 4:00pm). The garden is a 10-minute walk from Myogadani Station or Hakusan Station on the Tokyo Metro.
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