In Japan, as March arrives, spring gradually makes its presence felt, allowing one to enjoy the magnificent scenery of cherry blossoms, the country’s national flower. Typically, cherry blossoms start to bloom around March 20th, with the best viewing period being from March 25th to March 31st. However, due to atmospheric pressure, it tends to rain during this season every year, so it is advisable to consider the cherry blossom season to last until the first week of April. This time, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots in Tokyo where you can view cherry blossoms.
Toyosu Park
Toyosu Park may not be listed in guidebooks as a cherry blossom viewing spot, but its beautiful waterfront location near Tokyo Bay makes it a hidden gem for enjoying the beautiful cherry blossom scenery in spring.
The park is equipped with walking paths and plazas, making it suitable for quietly enjoying cherry blossoms through picnics, leisurely walks, and photography.
Furthermore, a 20-minute walk from Toyosu Park will take you to the Toyosu Market, where you can tour the market and taste fresh seafood. Additionally, a 30-minute walk will bring you to Monja Street in Tsukishima, famous for its monjayaki. This area, blending modern urban life with natural beauty, is a popular spot in Japan, so I highly recommend you enjoy the scenery as you move around. Moreover, if it is cherry blossom season, you can continuously enjoy the cherry blossoms all the way from Toyosu Park to Monja Street in Tsukishima.
Nearest Station
Toyosu Station is the gateway to your adventure. Easily accessible via the Yurakucho Line, the park is just a short walk away from the station. Exit the station and follow the signs or your map app – it’s that simple!
Fee
Free! Yes, you read that right. Exploring the natural beauty and tranquility of Toyosu Park comes without a price tag, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious travelers or anyone looking to enjoy Tokyo without spending a yen.
Recommended for
Whether you’re a solo traveler in search of a peaceful stroll, a couple looking for a romantic backdrop, or a family wanting to enjoy a picnic by the water, Toyosu Park caters to all. Photographers will find endless inspiration in the cherry blossoms of spring and the vibrant hues of autumn. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy jogging along the waterfront, and children will love the spacious play areas.
Chidorigafuchi, the Imperial Palace, and Yasukuni Shrine
Chidorigafuchi and the Imperial Palace are located in the heart of Tokyo, and their close proximity allows you to visit both in a single day. Chidorigafuchi, adjacent to the Imperial Palace’s outer moat, is especially renowned for its stunning cherry blossom views during spring. Here, you can stroll through enchanting cherry blossom tunnels or enjoy the blossoms from a boat, making the most of the sakura at both locations. As night falls, the illuminated cherry blossoms reflected on the water create a magical atmosphere. It’s recommended to start your visit at Chidorigafuchi, then wander around the Imperial Palace area.
Moreover, the Yasukuni Shrine is also situated in this area. Visited by many as a place of remembrance and peace, the shrine honors those who have died in war. Within its grounds, there’s a war museum, offering insights into Japan’s history through its conflicts. During spring, the shrine area hosts food stalls, allowing visitors to indulge in local snacks after immersing themselves in Japan’s history and cherry blossom beauty.
These spots offer a unique combination of natural beauty and historical learning. Visiting Chidorigafuchi and the Imperial Palace for cherry blossoms, followed by a reflective visit to Yasukuni Shrine, provides travelers with a memorable experience of Tokyo’s spring, blending scenic delights with a deep appreciation of Japan’s past.
Chidorigafuchi
Nearest Station:
Kudanshita Station (5-minute walk). Accessible via the Hanzomon, Tozai, and Shinjuku Subway Lines.
Entrance Fee
Free for walking around. Boat rental for cherry blossom viewing is available for a fee (around 800 yen for 30 minutes).
Recommended for
Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The cherry blossom tunnel along the moat is a mesmerizing sight, especially when illuminated at night. Boating under the blossoms offers a unique experience.
The Imperial Palace
Nearest Station
Tokyo Station (15-minute walk) or Nijubashimae Station (10-minute walk). Tokyo Station is accessible by numerous JR lines, while Nijubashimae is on the Chiyoda Subway Line.
Entrance Fee
Free for the East Gardens. The inner palace grounds are open to the public on January 2 (New Year’s Greeting) and February 23 (the Emperor’s Birthday) without any fee.
Recommended for
History buffs and those interested in Japanese culture. The East Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and historical ruins. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk.
Yasukuni Shrine
Nearest Station
Kudanshita Station (10-minute walk), served by the Hanzomon, Tozai, and Shinjuku Subway Lines.
Entrance Fee
Free. The Yushukan War Museum within the shrine grounds has an admission fee (1,000 yen for adults).
Recommended for
Those interested in learning about Japan’s history and the significance of peace. The shrine and its museum provide insight into Japan’s wartime past. The cherry blossoms here are also a sight to behold, with food stalls in spring adding to the atmosphere.
Shiba Park
The charm of cherry blossom viewing at Shiba Park is undoubtedly the exquisite collaboration between the cherry blossoms and Tokyo Tower. Photos that capture the cherry trees with the towering Tokyo Tower in the background enchant many with their beauty. Compared to other famous cherry blossom spots, Shiba Park is relatively less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely picnic on the spacious lawns under the cherry blossoms.
It’s recommended to grab stylish and delicious bread and coffee for takeout from “Le Pain Quotidien,” a bakery restaurant nearby.
Additionally, in the vicinity is Zojoji Temple, one of the main temples of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism, where many shoguns are buried, which might be worth a visit for those interested.
Nearest Station
Shiba Park is easily accessible by public transport. The closest stations are:
- Shiba Park Station on the Mita Line (a 5-minute walk)
- Onarimon Station on the Mita Line (a 5-minute walk)
- Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo Line (a 10-minute walk)
- Daimon Station on the Asakusa and Oedo Lines (a 10-minute walk)
- Hamamatsucho Station on the JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku Lines (a 15-minute walk)
Fee
Entrance to Shiba Park is free. This makes it a perfect spot for budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy Tokyo’s cherry blossoms without spending a yen.
Recommended for
Those who want to capture the collaboration between Tokyo Tower and cherry blossoms in photographs, as well as friends, families, or individuals looking to enjoy a leisurely picnic.
Meguro River
Stretching for several kilometers along the Meguro River, over 800 cherry trees line the riverbank, creating a breathtaking tunnel of pink blossoms. The reflection of the cherry blossoms on the water surface enhances their beauty, offering a visual feast for the eyes. As the sun sets, the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River are illuminated, transforming the area into a magical landscape. The twinkling lights against the night sky and the glowing cherry blossoms create an unforgettable ambiance, perfect for romantic walks or contemplative strolls.
During the cherry blossom season, the area around the Meguro River bustles with food stalls, pop-up cafes, and vendors selling cherry blossom-themed sweets and souvenirs, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy Japanese street food and seasonal delicacies.
Along the Meguro River, there is also a Starbucks Reserve Roastery, one of only six special Starbucks in the world that handles everything from coffee roasting to serving. Additionally, stepping off at Nakameguro Station brings you to the “Nakameguro Koukashita,” a commercial facility under the JR Yamanote Line viaduct, where you can enjoy stylish goods, art pieces, and delicious meals.
Nearest Stations
The Meguro River’s cherry blossoms can be easily accessed from several stations, ensuring a convenient trip for everyone. The most popular points along the river are closest to Nakameguro Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line) and Meguro Station (JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, Toei Mita Line, and Tokyu Meguro Line). These stations offer easy access to the best cherry blossom viewing spots along the river.
Fee
Viewing the cherry blossoms at Meguro River is completely free. This makes it an excellent option for travelers on any budget, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of sakura without spending a yen.
Recommended For
Recommended for couples and friends who want to capture Instagram-worthy photos with cherry blossoms and stylish drinks and food obtained from stalls. Ideal for those who don’t mind the crowds, as it tends to be quite busy.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park features over 1,000 cherry trees planted along its pathways, creating a stunning sea of pink blossoms each spring. During the cherry blossom season, the park becomes a bustling festival venue filled with Japanese food stalls, cherry blossom-themed sweets, and traditional festival games, making it the perfect place to fully enjoy Japan’s hanami culture. The park becomes even more beautiful at night when the cherry blossoms are illuminated.
Additionally, the area surrounding the park is home to Japan’s oldest zoo, Ueno Zoo, and the largest museum, the Tokyo National Museum, offering a wealth of cultural attractions. Just a short walk from Ueno Park, Ameyoko allows visitors to enjoy delicious street food and shop for souvenirs.
Nearest Station
Ueno Station is the most convenient access point to Ueno Park. It’s served by JR lines, Tokyo Metro, and the Keisei Line, making it easily reachable from any part of Tokyo.
Fee
There is no admission fee to enter Ueno Park, making it a budget-friendly option for everyone. The cherry blossom viewing, or hanami, is entirely free, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of sakura without any cost.
Recommended For
Ueno Park, with its abundant cherry blossoms, is recommended for those who wish to enjoy a landscape blanketed in sakura. Its expansive grounds make it ideal for visitors who are up for a lot of walking. It is also easily accessible for families with children.
Summary
While we’ve highlighted a few cherry blossom spots here, Tokyo offers even more places to enjoy sakura, such as Shinjuku Gyoen and the area around Asakusa. Not limited to these tourist spots, you might also encounter cherry blossoms just by walking around the city. Spring in Japan allows you to enjoy beautiful scenes throughout the city, so be sure to take full advantage of sightseeing during this season.
コメント