[2024] The Perfect Spots To See Blooming Sakura In Tokyo And Nearby

Japan is known for its beautiful cherry blossom season, which usually occurs from late March, in the south of Japan, to early April, in the north. During this time, the country is covered in a sea of pink and white blossoms, creating a stunning and unforgettable sight. Tokyo and its surrounding areas offer some of the best spots to see the sakura in full bloom, and you crowd to these locations to take in the beauty of the season.

Do you know the difference between plum and cherry blossom flowers? Check the FAQ at the bottom of this page!

This year the trees are blooming early so click here check out the bloom forecast, courtesy of WeatherMap.jp, to plan your trips!

To avoid crowds, consider visiting these spots during off-peak hours. Evenings and weekends are especially crowded!

Ueno Park

Ueno Park is one of the most popular places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo, and it’s easy to see why. The park has over 1,000 cherry blossom trees, which create a stunning pink canopy during peak bloom season. You can also enjoy a variety of food stalls and vendors in the park, as well as several museums and temples.

 

 

shinjuku gyoen national garden

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is another popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo. The garden has over 1,000 cherry blossom trees, including some rare varieties that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. You can enjoy picnics under the cherry blossom trees, stroll through the gardens, and take in the stunning views of the blossoms. This is one of Japan’s most famous gardens, and it requires an entrance ticket that currently costs ¥500.

To fully enjoy the cherry blossom experience, consider bringing a picnic blanket and some snacks to enjoy under the trees. Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden both have food stalls and vendors, so you can also grab a bite to eat while you’re there.

Meguro River

Meguro River is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo, and it’s easy to see why. The river is lined with over 800 cherry blossom trees, which create a beautiful pink tunnel during the peak bloom season. You can walk along the river between Nakameguro Station and Meguro Station to enjoy the stunning views. There are also several cafes and shops in the area to grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee, for example at the very popular GOOD SOUND COFFEE or SWITCH COFFEE.

Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo and is located in the city’s western suburbs. The park has over 500 cherry blossom trees, as well as a large pond and several walking paths. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the pond and visit the nearby Ghibli Museum.

The Ghibli Museum has just reopened after being closed since the start of the pandemic!

Sumida Park

Sumida Park is another popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo, and it’s also located in the heart of the city. The park is situated along the Sumida River and offers beautiful views of the cherry blossom trees against the backdrop of the river. In addition to cherry blossom viewing, you can also enjoy boat rides along the river and visit the nearby Tokyo Skytree.

Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is a popular spot for locals and you to enjoy cherry blossoms. The park is home to over 600 cherry trees, including various types of cherry blossoms. In addition to cherry blossoms, the park has various events and festivals throughout the year.

Yoyogi Park is often hosting local fairs and events. Consider walking to Yoyogi-Uehara after visiting the park, for a cozy dinner in one of Tokyo’s trendiest area!

Chidorigafuchi Moat

The Chidorigafuchi Moat is located near the Imperial Palace and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. The moat is lined with over 260 cherry trees that create a stunning backdrop for photos. You can rent a boat to row in the moat and enjoy the cherry blossoms from a different perspective.

Hinode Pier

Hinode Pier is a less crowded spot for cherry blossom viewing. It offers a stunning view of the cherry blossoms with the Rainbow Bridge in the background. You can take a boat ride from Hinode Pier to see the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River.

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held annually in Kawazu, located in the Izu Peninsula, south of Tokyo. The festival is famous for its early-blooming cherry blossoms, known as Kawazu-zakura. The festival also has food stalls and various events, including traditional Japanese music and dance performances.

Mount Fuji

Seeing cherry blossoms with the iconic Mount Fuji in the background is a must-see for you to Japan. Many spots around the Fuji Five Lakes offer a beautiful view of cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji in the background. The Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing with Mount Fuji in the background.

Nikko and Toshogu Shrine

 

Nikko is a town located about 120 km north of Tokyo, famous for its beautiful shrines and temples set against a stunning natural backdrop of mountains and waterfalls. The Toshogu Shrine, located in Nikko, is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is particularly renowned for its elaborate carvings, including the famous Three Wise Monkeys.

In spring, the area around Nikko becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, with the trees typically blooming in late April to early May. One of the best places to enjoy the sakura is the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where you can take a peaceful walk along the river while enjoying the beautiful cherry blossoms overhead.

 

Yokohama

 

Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan and is located just south of Tokyo. The city is known for its stunning waterfront views, historic Chinatown district, and unique architecture. In spring, the area around Yokohama becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, with the trees typically blooming from late March to early April.

One of the best places to enjoy the sakura in Yokohama is at the Sankeien Garden, which features a wide variety of cherry blossom trees and is also home to traditional Japanese tea houses and historic buildings. Yokohama is accessible via a short train ride.

 

Kamakura

 

Kamakura is a small city located about 50 km south of Tokyo, just a short train ride away. The city is known for its ancient temples and shrines, as well as its beautiful beaches. In spring, the area around Kamakura becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, with the trees typically blooming from late March to early April.

One of the best places to enjoy the sakura in Kamakura is at the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, which is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by a beautiful park. Another popular spot is the Hasedera Temple, which features a large number of cherry blossom trees and is also home to a massive statue of the Buddhist goddess Kannon.

 

Conclusion

 

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo during sakura season, be sure to check out one or more of these amazing spots for cherry blossom viewing. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a more laid-back experience, there’s a perfect spot for you.

Try some cherry blossom-flavored treats like sakura mochi (a sweet rice cake with cherry blossom filling) or sip on some sakura tea or sakura-flavored sake for a unique and delicious experience

Need help planning your sakura viewing trip? Our team is here to help. Contact us today!

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When is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo?

The best time to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo is usually late March to early April, but this can vary depending on the weather and other factors. In 2023 the season is early.

What is hanami?

Hanami is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms. It often involves picnicking under the cherry blossom trees with friends and family.

Are there any cherry blossom festivals in Tokyo?

Yes, there are several cherry blossom festivals in Tokyo, including the famous Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival.

What colors can Sakura flowers be?

Sakura flowers can be various shades of pink, from pale pink to deep pink. However, there are also white, red, and even yellow varieties of Sakura flowers.

What is the difference between Cherry blossom and Plum blossom flowers?

Sakura are known for their delicate pink or white flowers that bloom in spring. Plum blossom flowers, on the other hand, are usually white or pink and have a stronger fragrance. Plum blossom flowers also tend to bloom earlier than cherry blossom flowers, usually in late winter or early spring.

What is the cultural significance of Sakura and Plum blossom flowers?

Both Sakura and Plum blossom flowers are highly regarded in Japanese culture. Sakura flowers represent the fleeting beauty of life and are a symbol of renewal and hope. Plum blossom flowers, on the other hand, are associated with perseverance and resilience, as they bloom in harsher conditions.

What are other ways to enjoy sakura season?

Try sakura-flavored sweets or drinks! You can find seasonal items at any conbini, Starbucks, or Kit-Kat at supermarkets.