Cherry Blossoms In Tokyo: The Best Spots (2024 Edition)

Cherry blossoms, also known as “Sakura” in Japanese, are a symbol of spring and renewal in Japan. Every year, thousands of people flock to Tokyo to admire the beautiful pink and white flowers that bloom all over the city. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor from abroad, the sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom is an unforgettable experience.

In this article, we will explore the best spots to enjoy cherry blossoms in Tokyo in 2024, and provide you with some tips for making the most of your Sakura viewing experience. Grab a cup of sake and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

The Different Types of Cherry Blossoms

Shidarezakura in full bloom at Sensoji temple. (Photo by Eriko Maeda/Aflo Images)

Before we dive into the best spots for viewing cherry blossoms, let’s have a look at the different types of trees you can find in Tokyo. The most common species of cherry trees in the city are the “Yoshino” cherry, the “Somei-Yoshino” cherry, and the “Shidarezakura” cherry.

The Yoshino cherry is a popular ornamental cherry tree and is often used as the standard for cherry blossom viewing in Japan. The tree produces clusters of pale pink to white flowers and is known for its delicate beauty.

The Somei-Yoshino cherry is a hybrid of the Yoshino cherry and is characterized by its uniform, round shape and abundant blooms. This species of cherry tree is often planted along roads and in parks, making it a popular spot for Hanami parties.

The Shidarezakura cherry, also known as the Weeping Cherry, is a type of cherry tree that is known for its hanging branches and cascading flowers. This species of cherry tree is less common in Tokyo, but is often found in temple and shrine grounds, adding a beautiful and mystical element to the Sakura viewing experience.

When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Tokyo?

Cherry blossoms in full bloom at Meguro river. (Photo by Seo Dae Gyoo/Aflo Images)

The timing of the cherry blossom blooming varies each year, but the flowers are typically in full bloom in late March to early April in the Tokyo area. The exact timing of the blooms can be affected by many factors, including temperature and rainfall, so it is important to check the latest forecasts and updates before planning your trip.

Make sure to check the 2024 official Japan Meteorological Corporation cherry blossom forecast here to get the best out of your viewing experience.

What Is “Hanami” And How to Enjoy It

A group of friends enjoying Hanami. (Photo by Aflo Images)

Hanami, literally translated as “flower viewing,” is a traditional Japanese pastime that involves enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms with friends, family and co-workers. Hanami can take many forms, from picnicking beneath the trees to strolling through the park, but the goal is always the same: to appreciate the fleeting beauty of the Sakura and the beginning of Spring. Oh, and to eat and drink of course! It is very common for Japanese people to gather under the trees to enjoy beer or sake while looking at the flowers. It is also not rare for people to get a little drunk and fall asleep in the park: luckily Tokyo is a very safe city so this is usually not a problem.

Doing Hanami for the first time can be an overwhelming experience: that is why we put together some guidelines to help you out.

Picking a spot

Hanami spots can get very crowded very fast. In some of the major parks people “reserve” a place in advance by placing mats on the ground and even having a member of their party wait overnight. . While you don’t have to go that far to enjoy the cherry blossoms, it’s a good idea to bring a picnic blanket or mat, as well as food and drinks, to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Sakura comfortably. It can get chilly in the evening and at night, so make sure to bring some warm clothes as well!

Manners during viewing parties

As much as Hanami parties are a lot of fun, it is also important to show respect and good manners to others who are also enjoying the cherry blossoms. This includes keeping noise levels down, not smoking in non-smoking areas, and being mindful of the space and surroundings. It’s also a custom to bring along a small gift, snack or something to drink, to share with friends and colleagues.

Sorting trash and throwing it away

When enjoying Hanami, it’s important to respect the environment and other visitors. Be sure to pack out all of your trash and avoid damaging the cherry trees or disturbing the natural surroundings. Due the huge amount of people enjoying the flowers, some parks have designated areas for trash, while some others ask visitors to take their garbage home. Either way, make sure to follow the rules and help keep the city and its parks clean.

Most Popular Cherry Blossoms Spots in Tokyo

Tokyo is home to many parks and gardens that are famous for their cherry blossom displays. Here are some of our recommendations for viewing cherry blossoms in the city.

Admission-Free Parks

Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi park is one of the most popular Hanami spots in Tokyo. (Photo by Aflo Images)

Yoyogi Park is one of the most popular destinations for Hanami viewing in Tokyo. It boasts a large area of cherry trees and a lot of space for visitors to set up picnics and enjoy the beauty of the Sakura. Additionally, its central location in the city makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. During Hanami season, Yoyogi Park is filled with food stalls, making it a great spot to experience the beauty of the cherry blossoms.

Ueno Park

People enjoying cherry blossoms at Ueno Park. (Photo by Yoshio Tsunoda/Aflo Images)

Ueno Park is another popular Hanami spot in Tokyo, renowned for its expansive grounds and over 1,000 cherry trees. Located in the Ueno neighborhood, the park offers a stunning backdrop of the cherry blossoms against the Tokyo cityscape, making it a popular location for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take a stroll along the paths, have a picnic under the trees, or visit Shinobazu pond, where they can enjoy views of Tokyo Skytree along with the blooming cherry blossoms and the lotus flowers in the water.

Sumida Park

Beautiful view of Tokyo Skytree and blooming sakura. (Photo by Seo Dae Gyoo/Aflo Images)

Sumida Park, located beside the Sumida River, is a must-visit destination for Hanami enthusiasts. With its vast cherry blossom riverside promenade, the park offers breathtaking views of the Sakura in full bloom with Tokyo Skytree in the background. Visitors can relax on the spacious lawns, picnic under the trees, or take a leisurely boat ride down the river to fully enjoy the Hanami experience.

Inokashira Park

People having fun on rental boats at Inokashira park. (Photo by Masanori Yamanashi/Aflo Images)

Inokashira Park is a popular Hanami location just 15-minutes by train from the center of Tokyo. It is close to the fashionable Kichijoji neighborhood, and known for its stunning cherry blossom views and tranquil lake. The park also has a small zoo, traditional Japanese garden, and a famous temple called Benzaiten, making it a great place for a full day of exploring and enjoying the beauty of the cherry blossoms. The south side of the park is home to the Studio Ghibli Museum – a must-visit for anime fans – and during the weekends, the park comes alive with street performers, musicians, artists, and markets.

Chidorigafuchi Moat

Cherry blossoms look great at night at Chidorigafuchi. (Photo by Mimi Takamatsu/Aflo Images)

Chidorigafuchi is one of the most famous locations for Hanami in Tokyo, offering breathtaking views of the cherry blossom trees along the banks of the moat. With over 260 cherry trees, the area provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the beauty of the Sakura flowers. Visitors can rent a boat and paddle on the water surrounded by the pink blossoms. It is a popular destination for a romantic Hanami date, especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom or when thousands of pink petals are falling and floating on the water. Chidorigafuchi is a great spot for Sakura photography, with the iconic cherry blossom-lined moat serving as a picturesque backdrop for capturing the Tokyo skyline and views of Tokyo Tower. The whole area is even more picturesque after sunset, when the trees are illuminated.

Shiba Park

Cherry blossoms and Tokyo Tower. (Photo by Michihiko Kanegae/Aflo Images)

Shiba Park is a hidden gem for Hanami viewing in Tokyo, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms. Located near the iconic Tokyo Tower, this park might not be as popular as some of the other locations on this list, but this makes it an even better spot to enjoy cherry blossoms and picnics in general. If you are a photographer, you cannot pass on the chance to shoot two of the most iconic symbols of Japan together, Tokyo Tower and the cherry blossoms.

Sotobori Park

Sotobori park is a lesser known spot for Hanami. (Photo by Katsuhiro Yamanashi/Aflo Images)

Sotobori Park, located between Yotsuya and Iidabashi stations in the Chiyoda Ward, is a lesser-known spot for Hanami viewing, but still offers a stunning display of cherry blossoms. It is a great option for those seeking a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the Sakura during the spring. The park has a beautiful promenade and a canal that create a picturesque setting for Hanami picnics and photography. You can take a stroll along the canal and take in views of the cherry blossom trees reflecting in the water. A hidden gem for a serene escape from the bustling city.

Komazawa Olympic Park

Sakura trees in full bloom at Komazawa Olympic park. (Photo by Aflo Images)

Before being opened to the public, Komazawa Olympic Park was one of the main venues for the 1964 Summer Olympic Games. It is home to an outdoor athletic and soccer venue, the Komazawa Olympic Park Stadium, the Komazawa Gymnasium and other multiple sporting facilities. The park is also a great spot for Hanami, with its open space filled with around 200 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees. The trees line the cycling route, which means you can combine your cherry blossom viewing with a relaxing bicycle ride or run.

Kinuta Park

Kinuta park is a great spot for Hanami. (Photo by Shingo Tosha/Aflo Images)

Kinuta Park is located in Setagaya district, not far from Yoga station. It used to be a golf course, which makes it a perfect destination for taking a walk and immerse yourself in nature in the middle of Tokyo’s concrete jungle. The park is a great spot to enjoy Hanami with friends and family and has over 900 Sakura trees including Somei-Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Yaezakura varieties.

Ticketed Parks

Shinjuku Gyoen Park (Admission fee: 500 JPY)

View of Tokyo skyline from Shinjuku Gyoen park. (Photo by Hitoshi Osawa/Aflo Images)

Although not admission-free, Shinjuku Gyoen Park is a popular and less crowded Hanami spot in Tokyo. Known for its expansive lawns and picturesque pond, the park has over 1,000 cherry blossom trees spread across an English garden, a French garden, and a Japanese garden. There is plenty of space to lay out your picnic blanket and enjoy the serene beauty of the blooming cherry blossoms. The park is easily accessible from Shinjuku station, making it a convenient destination for people looking to escape the city for a day of Hanami or even just for a stroll. Shinjuku Gyoen Park is lit up at night time, making it a unique and romantic experience after dark.

Rikugien Garden (Admission fee: 300 JPY)

Weeping cherry tree at Rikugien. (Photo by Motoki Uemura/Aflo Images)

Rikugien is considered one of Tokyo’s most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens alongside Koishikawa Korakuen, and is a beautiful example of a garden from the Edo Period. Featuring a large central pond surrounded by hills and forest areas, Rikugien Garden is almost four centuries old, and home to a vast and beautiful weeping cherry tree that is illuminated at night during the Sakura season. The park is open until 9 p.m. during the cherry blossoms blooming season so visitors can take their time and enjoy illuminated sakura.

Hamarikyū Gardens (Admission fee: 300 JPY)

Night view at Hamarikyū Gardens. (Photo by Masanori Yamanashi/Aflo Images)

Hamarikyū Gardens, located between Tokyo Bay and the Shiodome office district, is a traditional Japanese garden with a mix of traditional and modern features. The garden houses a spacious lawn, a teahouse, and a large pond surrounded by cherry blossom trees, making it a perfect spot for Hanami viewing. The park also offers stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and the Shimbashi/Shiodome area.

Yozakura: Night-time Cherry Blossoms Viewing Spots

Can’t get enough of the cherry blossoms during the day? Enter “Yozakura”, or “Night Cherry blossoms”: an activity Japanese people love so much they have a word for it! Here are some of our recommendations to enjoy Sakura at night.

Meguro River

Cherry blossoms in full bloom at night are spectacular in Meguro. (Photo by Aflo Images)

A short walk from Meguro and Naka-Meguro stations, Meguro River is a popular spot for Hanami during the day, but it gets even more spectacular at night. With its banks lined by hundreds of illuminated cherry trees creating a magical atmosphere, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Sakura in a unique setting. There are also many food and drink stalls, making Meguro River the perfect place for a romantic evening walk or a lively night with friends.

Roppongi Spain-zaka

A different type of Hanami in Roppongi. (Photo by Aflo Images)

Spain-zaka is a lively street located in the Roppongi neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife. During cherry blossom season, the whole location transforms into a mesmerizing display of lights as the cherry trees along the street are illuminated. This offers a great experience for anyone who wants to enjoy some Yozakura. While it is not possible to put down a mat for a picnic, the area is great for an evening stroll, and one of the most iconic photo locations to capture the cherry blossoms at night in Tokyo.

Sumida Park

Tokyo Skytree light-up and cherry blossoms. (Photo by Aflo Images)

Sumida Park makes it to the list once more, this time for its Yozakura experience. Especially if it’s your first time in Tokyo, a stroll along the river with the illuminated cherry blossoms and Tokyo Skytree as a backdrop can easily become one of the best memories of your trip. Highly recommended!

Cherry Blossoms Day Trips Near Tokyo

For those who are looking to escape the city for a day, there are several nearby locations that offer stunning cherry blossom viewing opportunities. Some of the most popular day trips include:

Ōmiya Park, Saitama

People enjoying Hanami at Omiya park in Saitama. (Photo by Takeshi Ishii/Aflo Images)

Ōmiya Park, located in the city of Saitama, not far from Tokyo, is considered one of the top 100 spots for cherry blossoms in the whole country. The park houses a sprawling cherry blossom grove with over 1,000 Yoshino cherry trees, providing ample space for visitors to set up a picnic or simply admire the breathtaking beauty of the Sakura in full bloom. It is especially popular among families, offering a variety of recreational activities, such as boating and bird watching, as well as plenty of space for children to play. With its spacious lawns and gorgeous cherry blossom trees, Ōmiya Park is the perfect place for a leisurely Hanami experience.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine, Kamakura

Cherry trees lined up at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine. (Photo by Masataka Ishii/Aflo Images)

Only a short walk away from Kamakura station, Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine is the most important Shintō shrine in Kamakura. The 500m approach to the temple is lined with cherry trees, which makes it a great location to enjoy Sakura while visiting the Kamakura area. This is a shrine, so it is not possible to spread a blanket or have a drinking party, but is definitely a different and more traditional way to enjoy Hanami while visiting a beautiful area not far away from Tokyo.

Showa Kinen Park (Admission fee: 450 JPY)

A trip to Tachikawa is worth this view. (Photo by Masanori Yamanashi/Aflo Images)

Showa Kinen Park is located in Tachikawa, about 40 minutes by train from Shinjuku station. Opened in 1983 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Showa’s reign, this huge park houses a variety of seasonal flowers, museums and sports facilities. There are also plenty of walking trails, Japanese and Western style gardens, and a pond. The cherry blossoms usually bloom a few days later than in central Tokyo, making it a great place to do Hanami for those who missed the trees in full bloom in the city. The most recommended place for a Hanami party is the Cherry Blossom Garden in the north area of the park.

Mount Takao

The view from Mount Takao. (Photo by Aflo Images)

Mount Takao is located about an hour from central Tokyo. The area offers a great Hanami experience for those who love nature and hiking. You can either hike to the summit while visiting one of the many temples and shrines along the way, or ride a cable car from the bottom up to the middle of the trail. We recommend walking, as it is the best way to enjoy nature and the blooming cherry blossoms, especially in the evening when the trees are lit up, creating a magical atmosphere.

Photography Ideas: How to Shoot the Cherry Blossoms

Getting close is a great way to shoot cherry blossoms. (Photo by Matsuo.K/Aflo Images)

Whether you’re a professional photographer or just an amateur with a smartphone, capturing the beauty of the cherry blossom season is a must. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Sakura photography:

Get there early

Shooting the cherry blossoms can be a very relaxing activity, but one thing is for sure: it will be crowded wherever you go. Try to arrive at your designated cherry blossom viewing spot before the crowds to get the best shot.

Use a tripod

Flowers might seem an easy subject to photograph, but they are not! Especially when shooting with wide apertures or with macro lenses, the depth of field can get very small, so small that a little bit of wind can ruin your shots. A tripod will help keep your camera steady and ensure that your shots are sharp and clear, as long as you frame your shot and wait for the right timing, when there is no wind. Keep in mind that depending on the location and number of visitors, using a tripod might be prohibited.

Pay attention to the background

The background can make or break a shot, especially when shooting something fragile as a flower. Pay attention to what’s behind the blossoms. Also, do your best to simplify the background so the shapes and colors make the main subject stands out. It is a good idea to shoot with fast prime lenses to get a more blurred background and make the flowers stand out.

Use natural light

Natural light is best to get the most of cherry blossom photography. Try to shoot in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm. Shooting the backlit flowers can also create beautiful images with soft pink and golden colors, especially at sunset.

Conclusion

Cherry blossoms in Tokyo are a magnificent sight to behold. The city offers numerous locations to experience and appreciate the beauty of the Sakura. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful and serene location to admire the cherry blossoms or you’re hoping to capture stunning photos, Tokyo has something to offer. Hopefully this guide will help you make the best out of your Hanami experience.

Check out some of our best Sakura images here.

Want to enjoy Spring in Tokyo even more? Check out our recommendations in this article!