The Best Places to See Sakura in Japanโs Capital
Tokyo may be a modern metropolis, but every spring, it transforms into a pink wonderland. From bustling parks filled with picnickers to quiet shrines and rivers lined with cherry blossoms, Tokyo offers an incredible variety of hanami (flower viewing) experiences. Whether you want a vibrant festival atmosphere or a peaceful evening stroll, here are the 10 best spots to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo!
10. Showa Kinen Park (ๆญๅ่จๅฟตๅ ฌๅ) ๐ธ๐๏ธ
Located just outside central Tokyo, this massive park is one of the best places to enjoy cherry blossoms with plenty of space. The park features over 1,500 cherry trees, along with open fields, lakes, and a variety of seasonal flowers.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Tachikawa Station (JR Chuo Line)
9. Rikugien Garden (ๅ ญ็พฉๅ) ๐ธ๐
Rikugien is a classic Edo-period Japanese garden that offers a more peaceful and traditional hanami experience. The highlight is a giant weeping cherry tree, which is illuminated at night for a magical view.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Komagome Station (JR Yamanote Line)
8. Koishikawa Korakuen (ๅฐ็ณๅทๅพๆฅฝๅ) ๐ธ๐ฏ
One of Tokyoโs oldest gardens, this stunning traditional landscape garden combines cherry blossoms with historic bridges, ponds, and beautiful architecture. A great spot for those looking for a quiet and picturesque sakura experience.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Iidabashi Station (Multiple Lines)
7. Inokashira Park (ไบใฎ้ ญๆฉ่ณๅ ฌๅ) ๐ธ๐ถ
This park in Kichijoji is known for sakura trees surrounding the lake, creating beautiful reflections on the water. Rent a rowboat or swan boat for a truly magical experience under the cherry blossoms.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Kichijoji Station (JR Chuo Line)
6. Chidorigafuchi (ๅ้ณฅใถๆทต) ๐ธ๐ฃ
One of Tokyoโs most famous sakura spots, Chidorigafuchi offers an unforgettable boat ride experience with cherry blossoms arching over the moat of the Imperial Palace. The nighttime illumination makes it even more breathtaking.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Kudanshita Station (Tozai Line)
5. Sumida Park (้ ็ฐๅ ฌๅ) ๐ธ๐ก
Located near Asakusa, this riverside park offers stunning cherry blossom views with Tokyo Skytree in the background. Enjoy a hanami picnic or take a yakata-bune (traditional boat cruise) for an even better view.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Asakusa Station (Ginza Line)
4. Ueno Park (ไธ้ๆฉ่ณๅ ฌๅ) ๐ธ๐
Tokyoโs most famous and lively hanami spot, Ueno Park attracts thousands of visitors every year for its 1,000+ cherry trees and festive atmosphere with food stalls and performances.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Ueno Station (JR Yamanote Line)
3. Meguro River (็ฎ้ปๅท) ๐ธ๐
A stunning urban sakura spot, Meguro River is famous for its cherry blossom-lined canal, creating a tunnel of pink. Nighttime illuminations make this one of Tokyoโs most Instagrammable cherry blossom locations.
๐ Best time to visit: Late March โ Early April
๐ Nearest station: Meguro Station (JR Yamanote Line)
2. Shinjuku Gyoen (ๆฐๅฎฟๅพก่) ๐ธ๐๏ธ
A beautiful and spacious park with a mix of different cherry blossom varieties, allowing for an extended sakura season. Itโs less crowded than Ueno Park, making it great for a relaxing hanami experience.
๐ Best time to visit: Mid-March โ Mid-April
๐ Nearest station: Shinjuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
1. Mt. Takao (้ซๅฐพๅฑฑ) ๐ธโฐ๏ธ (Day Trip from Tokyo!)
For a unique sakura experience, take a hiking trip to Mt. Takao, where youโll find cherry blossoms blooming against stunning mountain scenery. A great way to enjoy both nature and sakura season.
๐ Best time to visit: Early – Mid-April
๐ Nearest station: Takaosanguchi Station (Keio Line)
Where Will You See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo?
Tokyo offers everything from lively festivals to peaceful gardens and boat rides under the blossoms. Whether youโre looking for famous spots or hidden gems, these top 10 locations will make your sakura season unforgettable!