The best places to see the cherry blossoms in Tokyo
Are you looking for the best places to see the cherry blossoms in Tokyo? In addition to the well-known locations, I have also discovered a few hidden gems where you can enjoy the sakura in peace.
Unfortunately, the weather was not on my side during the cherry blossom season last year, so the trees did not all bloom at the same time. Instead of an explosion of pink blossoms all at once, the trees opened up over several weeks. Although this was a bit disappointing at first, it gave me the chance to leisurely discover new places where the cherry blossoms really come into their own.
Incidentally, there are countless cherry trees throughout the city, so you are guaranteed to come across sakura in bloom somewhere. Whether you are walking through a park, along a river or just wandering the streets of Tokyo, the beautiful pink and white blossoms are everywhere. It really is a magical time to be in the city!
In this blog, I share both popular and lesser-known places where you can experience the magic of the sakura to the fullest! So read on quickly about the blossoms in Tokyo.
Meguro River – Sakura along the water
The first place I want to share with you is the Meguro River, a beautiful location to admire the cherry blossoms. This area is extra special to me, because I live here myself. Cherry trees that are in full bloom in spring are located along the entire river, which makes for an enchanting view and beautiful photo opportunities.
Take a relaxing walk from Meguro Station or Gotanda Station towards the river and then walk on to Nakameguro. Here you can perfectly end the day with a snack and a drink in one of the cozy cafes or restaurants. During the blossom season you will find numerous food and drink stalls along the river, which makes the atmosphere extra festive.
Not only is it beautiful here during the day, but in the evening the sakura is even atmospherically illuminated. The soft pink blossoms bathe in a warm glow of lanterns and lanterns, which creates an almost magical atmosphere. An evening walk along the Meguro River during the blossom season is therefore an absolute must!
Even outside of the sakura season, this is a beautiful area to explore. The river, charming bridges and trendy boutiques make Meguro River an atmospheric place to stroll and enjoy Tokyo’s unique cityscape all year round.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – Blossom in an Oasis of Peace
As one of my favourite places in Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen definitely deserves a spot on this list. This expansive city park, in the middle of bustling Shinjuku, is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and fully enjoy the blossoming cherry trees.
With its spacious layout and countless sakura trees, the park is an ideal location to admire the blossoms. Even in a busy city like Tokyo, you can always find a quiet spot here to experience the magic of the sakura in peace. I recommend taking a relaxing walk through the park first and then settling down on one of the lawns with a bite to eat and a drink.
Since Shinjuku Gyoen has fixed opening hours, I recommend going early in the morning. Then it is still wonderfully quiet and you can enjoy this beautiful blossom experience in peace.
Kanda River – A Hidden Sakura Spot
This is truly a hidden gem, so keep it a secret! Along the Kanda River lies a beautiful, hidden piece of nature with countless blossoming cherry trees. Here you can escape the crowds and enjoy the sakura in peace.
Want to discover this place? Then navigate to Higo-Hosokawa Garden, an atmospheric Japanese garden. From here you will automatically arrive at the river, where you can take a relaxing walk along the blossom trees. End your route in the garden itself and be surprised by the serene beauty of this place. You will be amazed at how beautiful and peaceful it is here, in the middle of Tokyo!
The Sakura Tram – A Scenic Ride Through the Blossoms
The Sakura Tram, also known as the Toden Arakawa Line, is a hidden gem that I only recently discovered. This cute, historic tram rides through authentic, old neighborhoods of Tokyo that you won’t find in your standard guidebooks. Along the way, you’ll pass many beautiful cherry trees, making this tram ride extra special during the blossom season.
The great thing about the Sakura Tram is that you can get off at any stop to explore the area and then simply get back on to continue your journey. I recommend starting your ride at Minowabashi Station and making spontaneous stops along the way at places that appeal to you.
I’ll be trying this tram out myself soon and will definitely share an update on my experience. But if you’re looking for a unique way to admire the sakura in Tokyo, this nostalgic tram ride is definitely recommended!
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden – A Peaceful Oasis in Tokyo
When I need a break from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of my favorite places to go. This beautiful Japanese garden feels like a hidden gem and is surprisingly peaceful, especially since it’s a bit further away from the more popular tourist hotspots.
Every time I’ve been here – including in the fall, when the maple trees are a beautiful shade of red – I’ve enjoyed the serene atmosphere and the beauty of nature. During the blossom season, the garden is especially special, with sakura reflecting in the ponds and winding paths that lead you past flowering trees.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and authentic place to admire the sakura, Koishikawa Korakuen is definitely a must-visit!
Don’t forget the other blossoming trees
If you’re in Tokyo a little earlier than the peak cherry blossom season in spring, there’s still plenty to see! There are other types of blossoms and fruit trees that bloom earlier. For example, the plum blossom (ume) starts blooming from the end of January and you can enjoy the winter sakura between mid-February and mid-March.
Trust me, these early blossoms are at least as beautiful as the beloved “regular” sakura and create a beautiful, dreamy atmosphere in the city. So if you’re just a little too early for the iconic cherry blossom, you don’t have to miss anything!
Read more about Tokyo here!
