Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is not only a hub of modernity but also a city deeply rooted in tradition. And when spring arrives, Tokyo undergoes a stunning transformation as cherry blossoms, or sakura, paint the city in shades of pink and white. If you’re planning a visit during cherry blossom season, here are the top five spots near Tokyo where you can experience the ephemeral beauty of sakura:
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Location: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Admission: ¥500 for adults, ¥250 for children
- Website: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a lush oasis amidst Tokyo’s urban sprawl, offers a tranquil retreat with its perfect blend of traditional Japanese, English Landscape, and French Formal gardens. Established in 1906 on the grounds of a former feudal lord’s residence, it was opened to the public in 1949, becoming a beloved spot for relaxation and leisure. The garden’s history as a royal garden is evident in its meticulous design and diverse flora.
Spring in Shinjuku Gyoen is synonymous with cherry blossom season. The garden boasts over a thousand cherry trees in more than a dozen varieties, creating a breathtaking spectacle of blooms that draw visitors from around the globe. The sight of delicate cherry blossoms against the backdrop of Tokyo’s skyscrapers is truly iconic.
Insider Tips:
- Don’t miss the greenhouse for a look at tropical and subtropical plants.
- Remember, picnicking is allowed only in designated areas, and alcohol is prohibited, ensuring a serene hanami experience.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden not only offers a stunning display of cherry blossoms but also serves as a year-round testament to the beauty and tranquility of nature amidst the bustling city.
Chidorigafuchi
- Location: Sanbancho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Website: Chidorigafuchi
Chidorigafuchi, located on the northwest side of the Imperial Palace, is one of the city’s most picturesque spots, especially renowned for its stunning cherry blossom views in spring. This area, named after the moat (Chidorigafuchi Moat) it encompasses, is a testament to Tokyo’s historical depth and natural beauty, offering a serene escape amidst the urban landscape.
The history of Chidorigafuchi dates back to the Edo period, serving as part of the outer defense of Edo Castle. Today, it stands as a peaceful park and walking path, where visitors can enjoy the lush greenery, water reflections, and a sense of tranquility away from the city hustle.
During cherry blossom season, Chidorigafuchi becomes a major attraction as hundreds of cherry trees lining the moat bloom in spectacular fashion, creating a mesmerizing canopy of pink and white flowers. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the moat for an up-close view of the blossoms, a truly unforgettable experience.
Insider Tip: The Chidorigafuchi Night Cherry Blossom Illumination offers a magical nighttime sakura experience, with the trees lit up beautifully.
Chidorigafuchi is not just a cherry blossom viewing spot but a place of historical significance and natural beauty, offering a unique blend of Japan’s past and present in the heart of Tokyo.
Boat rentals at Chidorigafuchi
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Operating hours may vary depending on the season and weather conditions)
- Rental Fees: ¥800 per 30-minute. Payment can be made in cash or by credit card.
- Types of Boats: Chidorigafuchi Park offers wooden rowboats and pedal boats for rent. Wooden rowboats provide a quiet and traditional experience, while pedal boats are suitable for those seeking a more active adventure.
- Procedure: Upon arrival at the boat rental area, approach the rental counter or staff to inquire about boat types and fees. After paying the rental fee, you’ll receive any necessary safety equipment. Follow the staff’s instructions to board the boat and enjoy the scenic views of the park and cherry blossoms during your rental period.
Boat rentals at Chidorigafuchi Park offer a fantastic way to enhance your cherry blossom viewing experience. Rowing along the serene waters allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the sakura in a relaxed atmosphere.
Ueno Park
- Location: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Website: Ueno Park
Ueno Park, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a sprawling public space known for its cultural attractions, museums, and seasonal beauty, particularly during cherry blossom season. Originally part of Kaneiji Temple, one of the city’s largest and wealthiest temples, the park was established in 1873, making it one of Japan’s first public parks. Its history as a battleground during the Boshin War adds a layer of historical significance to its tranquil landscapes.
Spring in Ueno Park is a sight to behold, as over a thousand cherry trees burst into bloom, transforming the park into a canopy of pink and white. The cherry blossom season draws both locals and tourists to the park for hanami (flower viewing) parties, making it one of Tokyo’s most popular spots for celebrating sakura.
Attractions in Ueno Park extend beyond its cherry blossoms. The park is home to several leading museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the Ueno Royal Museum. Additionally, Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoo, offers a diverse range of animal exhibits.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Shinobazu Pond for beautiful lotus flowers in summer.
Ueno Park provides a rich blend of natural beauty, culture, and history, offering a myriad of experiences throughout the year.
Inokashira Park
- Location: 1 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Website: Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Kichijoji, offers a picturesque escape with its expansive pond, lush greenery, and cultural attractions. Opened in 1917 as a gift from the Emperor to the public, it is one of Tokyo’s most beloved parks, celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
The park is especially famous for its cherry blossom season in spring when the numerous sakura trees around Inokashira Pond bloom spectacularly. The sight of cherry blossoms reflected in the water, complemented by joyful crowds enjoying hanami (flower viewing) parties, makes for an unforgettable experience. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides on the pond, adding a romantic touch to the cherry blossom viewing.
Attractions at Inokashira Park extend beyond its natural beauty. The park is home to the Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of the acclaimed Studio Ghibli, and the Inokashira Park Zoo, which focuses on Japanese indigenous animals. Art and music performances are also common, adding to the park’s vibrant atmosphere.
Insider Tips: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the park from the water by renting a rowboat or swan boat.
Inokashira Park, with its enchanting cherry blossoms and wealth of attractions, remains a cherished spot for both relaxation and cultural exploration in Tokyo.
Koganei Park
- Location: 1 Chome-13-1 Sekinocho, Koganei, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Website: Koganei Park
Koganei Park, sprawling across the western suburbs of Tokyo, is a vast and verdant oasis known for its recreational facilities and natural beauty. Established in 1949, this 79-hectare park is Tokyo’s second-largest park, offering a diverse range of activities and landscapes, from sports fields and traditional Japanese gardens to open lawns and wooded areas.
One of the park’s most enchanting times is during cherry blossom season when over 1,700 cherry trees bloom in a spectacular display of pink and white. The Cherry Blossom Festival at Koganei Park is a much-anticipated event, drawing visitors from across Tokyo and beyond to enjoy the serene beauty of sakura in full bloom. The park’s wide-open spaces make it an ideal location for hanami (flower viewing) picnics and leisurely strolls under the canopy of blossoms.
Attractions in Koganei Park extend beyond its seasonal beauty. The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, located within the park, offers a fascinating glimpse into Tokyo’s past, showcasing historic buildings from the Edo period to the early Showa period.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss exploring the architectural museum for a unique historical perspective.
Koganei Park, with its expansive lawns, diverse attractions, and breathtaking cherry blossoms, provides a perfect escape into nature and history within the bustling metropolis of Tokyo.
Experience the magic of cherry blossoms in Tokyo with these top five viewing spots. Whether you’re admiring sakura trees in a traditional garden or rowing beneath their branches along a tranquil moat, the beauty of springtime in Tokyo is sure to captivate your heart and soul.
