Cherry blossom season is here: 8 popular spots to visit in Tokyo

Spanning 210,000 sqm, the Imperial Palace East Gardens is a historical gem that provides a glimpse into Japan’s past while showcasing beautiful seasonal blooms. While pink trees are scattered throughout the gardens, head to Inui-mon Street, a 600-metre-long path that only opens during cherry blossom season. Take a leisurely stroll down the path lined with stunning cherry blossom trees.

Tatler Tip: The gardens are renowned for its blooms every season, not just in spring. Visit during summer and find the space filled with vibrant yellow Japanese spatterdock.

Located along the picturesque Sumida River, this park features over 510 cherry trees that line the riverbanks. Take a stroll along the park and enjoy the blossoms and scenic views of the Tokyo Skytree, or hop on a yakatabune (Japanese home-style boat) to experience these blossoms from a different perspective.

Tatler Tip: For an enchanting cherry blossom viewing experience, visit at night as the trees are beautifully illuminated from dusk.

Over 1,000 cherry trees turn the park pink come spring season here in Ueno Park, also known as one of the most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo. The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is also held during this time and is one of the largest in Tokyo. If you’re looking to visit during this time, it’s best to head down early to get a good spot to view the blooms. Cherry blossom viewing continues even after the sun sets—lanterns illuminate the trees offering a unique view of the pink flowers.

Meguro River stretches 8km, with over 800 cherry trees lining the banks. Start at Gotanda and walk down to Meguro Sky Garden for a full experience of the blooms in Spring. If you’re visiting in the evening, don’t miss out on the annual Meguro River Light Up which sees the trees illuminating in the dark. The festival also features food trucks serving up local fare and drinks. For a unique view, book a Meguro River cherry blossom cruise and immerse yourself in stunning views of the blossoms.

Soak up the vibrant spring atmosphere when you visit this lavish park. With over 60 different varieties of cherry trees available here, you may find pink blooms throughout the first half of the year—with some trees blooming as early as January.

If you’re visiting from late January to February, you’ll find Kanzakura (winter cherry) in full bloom. Come during cherry blossom season from March to April and admire Somei (Yoshino cherry) trees that turn the park pink while Baigoji Juzukakezakura (cherries of Baigo-ji Temple) blossom in late April to early May. 

This public botanical garden is owned by Tokyo University and features a 16-hectare space dotted with around 4,000 different plant and tree species. During spring, you can find over 100 blooming somei-yoshino trees along the cherry tree alley. This garden is also known to be less crowded than other hanami spots.

Located next to the Imperial Palace moat, this 700-metre park boasts magnificent views of the spring blooms. Rent a boat and get to travel through the moat that has been blanketed by pink petals. If you’re looking to sit and admire these blooms instead, it’s best to arrive early as there are limited seating along the bank.

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