Last updated: 23 January 2024
The cherry blossom season is coming in Tokyo, and we've got you covered with the latest information that you need to know! This article includes predictions for the full bloom times of Tokyo's cherry blossoms, cherry blossom viewing spots, and more, so you don't have to worry even if it's your first time visiting Tokyo during the cherry blossom season! We will also introduce transportation methods and 10 famous cherry blossom viewing spots such as the Meguro River, Chidorigafuchi, and Shinjuku Gyoen. That said, let's take a walk through the romantic cherry blossoms of Tokyo!
🌸 2024 Tokyo Cherry Blossom Viewing Recommendations
- Tokyo Kimono & Yukata Rental｜Wear a beautiful kimono or yukata and take photos with the cherry blossoms!
- Mount Fuji Classic Route One-Day Tour (Chinese/English Guided)｜The most unforgettable Mount Fuji cherry blossom viewing trip～ 🌸
- Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival｜Depart from Tokyo! View cherry blossoms and soak in hot springs, such bliss ♨️
- Tokyo Yanaka Leisurely Tour｜Deep exploration, as if returning to ancient Tokyo
- Watarase Cherry Blossom One-Day Tour｜Unique eastern cherry blossom viewing and strawberry picking tour 🍓
- Izu Atami One-Day Tour｜Depart from Tokyo！
- Kawazu-zakura, Joren Falls, & Nanohana One-Day Tour｜Klook exclusive 🌟
Tokyo Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024
As of 10 January 2024, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its first cherry blossom forecast! Cherry blossoms in Japan are expected to reach peak bloom earliest in Kochi and Tokyo (late March) and the latest in Sapporo (early May). Here's an overview of the forecasted flowering and full bloom dates at a glance (It's recommended to schedule your visit close to the full bloom date for the most beautiful photos!):
Prefecture | Location | 2024 Forecasted Flowering Date | 2024 Forecasted Full Bloom Date | Yearly Average Flowering Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hokkaido | Sapporo | 30 April | 3 May | 1 May |
Aomori | Aomori | 17 April | 21 April | 22 April |
Miyagi | Sendai | 2 April | 8 April | 8 April |
Tokyo | Tokyo | 21 March | 28 March | 24 March |
Ishikawa | Kanazawa | 29 March | 5 April | 3 April |
Nagano | Nagano | 3 April | 9 April | 11 April |
Aichi | Nagoya | 19 March | 29 March | 24 March |
Kyoto | Kyoto | 22 March | 31 March | 26 March |
Osaka | Osaka | 24 March | 1 April | 27 March |
Wakayama | Wakayama | 22 March | 30 March | 24 March |
Hiroshima | Hiroshima | 23 March | 1 April | 25 March |
Kochi | Kochi | 19 March | 27 March | 22 March |
Fukuoka | Fukuoka | 21 March | 30 March | 22 March |
Kagoshima | Kagoshima | 29 March | 9 April | 26 March |
IMPORTANT REMINDER: The forecasted flowering and full bloom dates table are based on trends and seasonality as of 22 February 2024. Check out the Japan Meteorological Corporation website for the latest information on flowering and full bloom prediction dates in all the prefectures.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Tokyo
For those of you planning to go cherry blossom viewing in Japan this year, start mapping out your 2024 Tokyo cherry blossom locations for a beautiful cherry blossom journey in Japan!
1. Chidorigafuchi Park
Rowing a small boat under the dreamy cherry blossom trees, with the paddle gliding over the river's surface covered in pink petals, and enjoying the beautiful night cherry blossoms illuminated by lights at night; this is undoubtedly the most romantic itinerary in spring!
Located in Tokyo's Kudanshita district, Chidorigafuchi is surrounded by layers of greenery and a moat. In spring, its 700-meter-long riverside path is adorned with cherry blossom trees such as Somei Yoshino, Oshima cherry, and mountain cherry. From late March to early April each year, Chidorigafuchi also hosts the 'Chiyoda Sakura Festival,' illuminating the night cherry blossoms, making it a must-visit for travelers!
Chidorigafuchi Park
- Address: 2-chome Kudanminami, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Transportation: 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Kudanshita Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, Hanzomon Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line
- Note: Rowing boat experiences may not be available every day, so it is recommended for travelers to check the official website before visiting
2. Meguro River (Meguro River Cherry Blossoms Promenade)
The famous Tokyo Meguro River is renowned for its stunning view of cherry blossoms at night. During cherry blossom season, the cherry blossoms in full bloom form a beautiful pink tunnel along the riverbanks, creating a romantic atmosphere. During the limited-time "Nakameguro Sakura Season," lanterns are placed along the riverbank to illuminate the blooming cherry blossoms. Food stalls by the riverbank offer refreshing beers and snacks, making it a great opportunity for travelers to relax and enjoy the rare beauty of cherry blossoms in Tokyo.
Around Meguro River, there are several trendy spots such as Tsutaya Books, Blue Bottle Coffee, and the newly opened Starbucks Reserve Tokyo Roastery, making it an excellent choice for a one-day cherry blossom viewing tour in Tokyo.
Meguro River
- Address: Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0063, Japan
- Transportation: 5-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line Meguro Station
3. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Photo Credit: @zcarlile on Instagram
The expansive and diverse Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which was once a garden of the Japanese Imperial Family, offers not only Japanese-style gardens but also exotic gardens in English and French styles, ensuring a worthwhile visit for travelers. The wide lawns adorned with blooming cherry blossoms in spring attract many Japanese people who come with their families and friends for picnics, spending a leisurely afternoon.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Address: 11 Naitocho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
- Transportation: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line "Shinjuku Gyoenmae'' Station Exit 1, and from Fukutoshin Line "Shinjuku-sanchome" Station, Exit E5.
🏨 Recommended Hotels near Shinjuku Gyoen 👇
4. Rikugien Garden
Photo Credit: 班森 on flickr
In the midst of a spring day, Rikugien Garden feels like a mystical wonderland, and it's the enchanting "weeping cherry blossoms" that capture everyone's attention. The majestic weeping cherry blossoms, resembling waterfalls, appear dreamlike in the daytime under the sunlight, and at night, they shine brilliantly under the illumination of lights, making it a signature sight at Rikugien Garden. This garden, built by the retainer Yoshitaka Yanagisawa for the 5th shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, is a strolling-style garden constructed around a pond. Travelers can wander along the pathways and immerse themselves in the picturesque scenery.
Rikugien Garden
- Address: 6-chōme-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0021, Japan
- Transportation: 7-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro Namboku Line "Komagome Station," or 10-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Mita Line "Sengoku Station."
- Official Website: Rikugien Garden
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5. Ueno Park
As one of the must-visit attractions in Tokyo, Ueno Park is also an excellent spot for cherry blossom viewing. In spring, the entire park is bathed in pink cherry blossoms. Cherry blossoms can be found all over the vast park, with the most concentrated area being the "Sakura Namiki Zone" towards Shinobazu Pond. Many Japanese people come early in the morning with picnic mats to secure a spot under the cherry blossom trees. They do this to enjoy a romantic spring day with their family or colleagues. Travelers who wish to join the picnic should plan to arrive early!
Across from one of the exits of Ueno Park is the famous "Ameya-Yokocho," a unique street where you can experience the daily life of Tokyo residents. Don't forget to explore this distinctive Tokyo street during your visit!
Ueno Park
- Address: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
- Transportation: 5-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station
🌸 Recommended Hotels in Ueno/Akihabara 👇
6. Sumida Park
Photo Credit: th.anngle.org
One of the most enchanting aspects of Sumida Park is the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful view of Tokyo Skytree while marveling at cherry blossoms. It has been a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot since the Edo period. The east and west banks of the Sumida River are lined with over 500 cherry blossom trees, including Somei Yoshino, Oshima cherry, and Satozakura. Travelers can not only stroll along the riverside pathways but also take a ride on a yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboat) or a water bus on the Sumida River, offering a unique way to experience the elegant atmosphere of spring.
Must-visit attractions like Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree are nearby, so don't miss out on these fantastic locations for cherry blossom viewing.
Sumida Park
- Address: 1 Chome Hanakawado, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0033, Japan
- Transportation: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Toei Asakusa Line "Asakusa Station," or 3-minute walk from Tobu Line "Asakusa Station."
🏨 Recommended Hotels near Asakusa 👇
7. Inokashira Park
Photo Credit: Japan National Tourism Organization Website
Surrounded by the pink cherry blossoms, Inokashira Park in Kichijoji is known as one of the many must-visit cherry blossom viewing spots, and it offers an incredibly romantic atmosphere. Many Japanese people also choose to have picnics in Inokashira Park during the cherry blossom season to experience the romantic spring ambiance. It's equally popular as Ueno Park. In addition to swan boats, travelers can also opt for regular rowboats. With a gentle breeze and oars gliding through the petal-covered lake, it's undoubtedly one of the most beautiful scenes of spring.
Inokashira Park
- Address: 1-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino City, Tokyo
- Transportation: 8-minute walk from JR Chuo Line and Keio Inokashira Line "Kichijoji Station"
8. Asukayama Park
Photo Credit: mrhayata on flickr
Located along the nostalgic Toden Arakawa Line, Asukayama Park is a historic cherry blossom viewing spot that has been a favorite among the people since the Edo period. The retro charm of the Arakawa Line tram and the vast expanse of pink cherry blossoms create a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity that can only be experienced at Asukayama Park.
On regular days, Asukayama Park is a leisure park for the public and offers various facilities for families with children. If you plan to enjoy cherry blossoms with your children, Asukayama Park is highly recommended. It’s an ideal place to lay down your picnic mats and savor the beautiful springtime views under Tokyo's cherry blossoms.
Asukayama Park
- Address: 1-chōme-1-3 Ōji, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0002, Japan
- Transportation: 1-minute walk from JR Keihin-Tohoku Line "Oji Station" / Toden Arakawa Line "Asukayama Station"
9. Gongendo Tsutsumi
If you want to avoid the crowds in the city and enjoy cherry blossoms at a more leisurely pace, the suburban cherry blossoms are an excellent choice. One such place near Tokyo is Gongendo Tsutsumi in Saitama Prefecture. The park features a 1-kilometer-long cherry blossom tunnel, where you can see numerous rows of cherry blossom trees. The origin of Gongendo's cherry blossoms dates back approximately 100 years when around 3,000 cherry blossom trees were planted.
Additionally, on both sides of the cherry blossom tunnel, you'll find fields of rapeseed flowers, creating a striking contrast between the delicate pink of cherry blossoms and the vibrant yellow of rapeseed flowers, making it exceptionally beautiful. After enjoying the cherry blossoms, we recommend visiting the nearby Japan Hanno Lala Garden for a perfect day out!
Gongendo Tsutsumi
- Address: 887-3 Uchigouma, Satte, Saitama 340-0103, Japan
- Transportation:
1. About a 30-minute walk from the Tobu Nikko Line’s Satte Station
2. About 15 minutes by bus from the Tobu Nikko Line’s Satte Station, then about a 1-minute walk
3. About 10 minutes by car from the Ken-O Expressway’s Satte Interchange
10. Koganei Park
Photo Credit: whity on flickr
Compared to the well-known cherry blossom viewing spots mentioned earlier, Koganei Park is a hidden gem for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo. The park boasts over 1,700 cherry blossom trees, and the spectacle of cherry blossoms in full bloom during spring is truly magnificent!
If you want to avoid the crowds and quietly savor the beauty of cherry blossoms, spend some time at Koganei Park. Don't forget to bring a picnic mat and immerse yourself in the serene spring scenery amidst the cherry blossom petals scattered like snow. You can also take the opportunity to visit the nearby Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, where you can explore European-style architectural gems within the park.
Koganei Park
- Address: 1 Chome-13-1 Sekinochō, Koganei, Tokyo 184-0001, Japan
- Transportation: Take the JR Chuo Line to "Musashi-Koganei Station," transfer to the Seibu Bus (towards Hanakoganei Station), and it's approximately a 7-minute ride. Get off at "Koganei Park Nishiguchi (West Exit) Station."
11. Showa Kinen Park
Klook United States
When it comes to flower viewing, we shouldn’t miss out on mentioning Showa Kinen Park! This park is home to a variety of flowers, and you can enjoy different types of flowers throughout the four seasons. In addition to the famous kochia and ginkgo trees, Showa Kinen Park boasts a large area of cherry blossom trees that attract many travelers during spring. Despite being located in the outskirts of Tokyo, its spacious and uncrowded environment makes it a favorite among families. If you're lucky, you might even encounter a beautiful tulip flower field!
Showa Kinen Park
- Address: 3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo
- Transportation: 15-minute walk from JR Ome Line "Nishi-Tachikawa Station"
- Official Website: Showa Kinen Park
The locations mentioned above are recommended cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo. Before you depart, don't forget to double check the cherry blossom blooming dates and peak times to avoid missing out. To add more to your cherry blossom viewing plans, we recommend booking these day tours:
These tours allow you to visit the major stations on Japan's sacred mountain, Mt. Fuji. Don't miss out on your chance to admire the iconic Mt. Fuji and cherry blossoms together! 🌸
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💜 This article was transcreated with the Klook Taiwan team
