Witness Tokyo's best cherry blossom views with this guide
What's the story
Each spring, Tokyo is transformed into a pink wonderland as cherry blossoms, or "sakura," begin to bloom throughout the city. This ephemeral beauty heralds a season of outdoor festivities. Both locals and tourists come together to revel under the blossoms for hanami, the time-honored cherry blossom viewing picnics. These gatherings are a quintessential opportunity to immerse oneself in Japanese culture amid nature's fleeting artistry.
Iconic spot
Ueno Park's floral canopy
Ueno Park emerges as a top choice for those eager to witness cherry blossoms. With more than a thousand sakura trees forming a breathtaking floral tunnel along its main walkway, the park vibrates with a festive atmosphere. During the bloom season, it offers an immersive hanami experience, complete with an array of food stalls and the cheerful presence of both locals and visitors.
Serene escape
Chidorigafuchi Greenery Lounge
Chidorigafuchi offers a serene escape, distinct from typical picnic areas. It's a place for a peaceful stroll along the Imperial Palace's moat, which is lined with hundreds of cherry trees. By renting a boat, visitors can gently row beneath the overhanging sakura branches. This provides a tranquil boating experience, an enchanting alternative to picnicking, while still capturing the essence of hanami.
Nature's oasis
Shinjuku Gyoen's tranquil lawns
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a prime spot for a serene hanami. Its large lawns provide a quiet space away from the crowds, ideal for picnics. The garden boasts over a thousand cherry trees, including varieties that bloom at different times, offering an extended viewing season. The atmosphere is calm, making it perfect for savoring lunch beneath the picturesque sakura blooms.
River views
Sumida Park riverside blooms
Sumida Park offers a picturesque setting with rows of cherry trees along the Sumida River banks. Here, visitors can enjoy their picnic with the towering Tokyo Skytree in view. In the evening, the river comes alive as boats adorned with lanterns sail by, merging traditional Japanese charm with the modern city skyline, creating a memorable backdrop for cherry blossom admirers.
Local favorite
Inokashira Park's natural canvas
Inokashira Park, a local treasure with an intimate ambiance and fewer tourists, cradles a large pond. This pond mirrors the delicate sakura blossoms, offering a view that is twice as enchanting. Visitors often take to boating, gliding through the reflections for a closer look at the blooming trees. Alongside, seasonal treats are available from vendors, enhancing the hanami experience in this natural setting.