What’s your plan for this spring? Why not head to Tokyo during cherry blossom season? As Tokyo transforms into a pink wonderland, immerse yourself in these pink petals for unforgettable moments. This guide will show you the best spots to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo. Get ready to experience the magic of cherry blossom season in 2025!
Best time to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo
The cherry blossoms in Tokyo typically bloom from late March to early April, with the peak usually occurring around the end of March.
According to the second forecast released by the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC), the cherry blossoms in Tokyo are expected to start blooming on 24 March and reach full bloom on 31 March 2025🌸.
Here’s a quick summary of the forecasted blooming and full bloom dates if you are also interested in cherry blossom in other parts of Japan.
| Location | Forecasted flowering date | Forecasted full bloom date | Flowering date in average year |
| Sapporo | 28 April | 2 May | 1 May |
| Aomori | 20 April | 23 April | 22 April |
| Sendai | 6 April | 11 April | 8 April |
| Tokyo | 24 March | 31 March | 24 March |
| Kanazawa | 2 April | 8 April | 3 April |
| Nagano | 10 April | 15 April | 11 April |
| Nagoya | 25 March | 3 April | 24 March |
| Kyoto | 27 March | 5 April | 26 March |
| Osaka | 28 March | 4 April | 27 March |
| Wakayama | 26 March | 3 April | 24 March |
| Hiroshima | 25 March | 4 April | 25 March |
| Kochi | 23 March | 30 March | 22 March |
| Fukuoka | 23 March | 1 April | 22 March |
| Kagoshima | 23 March | 3 April | 26 March |
Where to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo?
Ueno Park
- 🌸Location: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 05:00-23:00
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most iconic spots for cherry blossom, and it’s no surprise why. With over 1,000 cherry trees, the park transforms into a pink paradise each spring.
During cherry blossom season, the park becomes a lively place for hanami—a traditional picnic under the blooming trees. Locals set up tarps, enjoying food and drinks. One of the park's most famous features during this time is the "sakura tunnel," where the cherry branches form a beautiful arch above the paths.
Beyond the cherry blossoms, you can visit the Ueno Zoo, explore the Tokyo National Museum, or wander around the Shinobazu Pond.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Source: Trip Moments
- 🌸Location: 11 Naitōmachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: Mar 15-Jun 30, Tuesday-Sunday: 09:00-18:00 (Latest entry time:17:30)
- 🌸Ticket price: 500 Yen (about S$4.31) for adults, 250 Yen (about S$2.16) for children. Free for junior high school students and younger.
What sets Shinjuku Gyoen apart is its unique blend of traditional Japanese, English, and French garden landscapes. The park’s “sakura promenade” is a popular path where cherry blossoms line the walkways, and the view of the trees reflected in the garden's ponds is absolutely picturesque.
Unlike some of the more crowded sakura spots in Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen offers a more relaxed atmosphere. During sakura season, Shinjuku Gyoen also hosts evening illuminations of the cherry blossoms.
Chidorigafuchi
- 🌸Location: Chidorigafuchi, Kitanomaru Park, 1-1 Kōjimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0091, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 24/7
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
Chidorigafuchi, located near the Imperial Palace along the Chidorigafuchi moat, offers one of the most picturesque cherry blossom experiences in Tokyo. What makes Chidorigafuchi particularly special is that you can rent a boat and paddle along the moat, gliding past the cherry blossoms.
The park itself is a perfect spot for a stroll under the blooming trees. The cherry blossoms here are particularly photogenic.
Meguro River
- 🌸Location: Meguro River, Meguro, Tokyo, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 24/7
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
The cherry blossoms lining the Meguro River create a stunning view, especially when the flowers reflect on the water. Along Meguro River, the cherry trees form a tunnel of pink blooms above you. This spot is especially popular among locals, who often visit for intimate hanami picnics along the water’s edge.
As you walk along the river, the cherry blossoms create stunning reflections in the water. You can enjoy sakura with a cup of coffee or a refreshing drink along the river.
Rikugien Gardens
- 🌸Location: 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo 113-0021, Tokyo
- 🌸Opening hours: 9:00-17:00
- 🌸Ticket price: 300 Yen (about S$2.59) for adults, 150 Yen (about S$1.29) for those aged 65 and above, free for children, residents of Tokyo, and junior high school students
Rikugien Gardens, located in Bunkyo Ward, dates back to the Edo period. The garden features a stunning combination of ponds, bridges, and winding paths, making it one of the most beautiful places to see sakura in Tokyo.
It’s one of the few places in Tokyo where the sakura viewing experience feels both intimate and culturally enriching. You can take a peaceful walk through the garden, with each step offering a new perspective of the blooms and landscape.
Sumida Park
- 🌸Location: 1 Chome-1 Hanakawado, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0033, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 24/7
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
Sumida Park stretches along the Sumida River and offers a stunning view of the Tokyo Skytree, which towers in the background. Stroll along the river and enjoy the contrast of the bright pink cherry blossoms against the blue sky and the calm waters of the Sumida River. There are also sakura boat cruises available along the river, where you can see the blossoms from a unique perspective.
After your sakura stroll, you’re just a short walk from Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, which is also a good spot to see cherry blossoms. If you’re still up for more, head over to Tokyo Solamachi Shopping Mall or the Sumida Aquarium inside Tokyo Skytree for a fun day of shopping and exploring.
Yoyogi Park
- 🌸Location: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 24/7
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
Yoyogi Park, located just a short walk from the Harajuku area, is dotted with hundreds of cherry trees that bloom in early spring, offering a sea of pink blossoms that create a festive mood.
What makes Yoyogi Park unique is its large open spaces, which make it a popular destination for hanami picnics, outdoor activities, and even performances. You can come in groups, laying out blankets under the trees to enjoy food, drinks, and good company.
Inokashira Park
- 🌸Location: 1 Chome-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0005, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 24/7
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
One of the most unique experiences at Inokashira Park during sakura season is to rent a boat and paddle around the pond while surrounded by blooming cherry trees. You can get up close to the blossoms. Inokashira Park has lakes, forests, walking paths, tennis courts, zoos, botanical gardens, children's playgrounds, and sculpture halls. There is also the famous Miyazaki "Mitaka no Mori Art Museum".
Koganei Park
- 🌸Location: 1 Chome-13-1 Sekinocho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-0001, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 24/7
- 🌸Ticket price: Free
A little off the beaten path but definitely worth visiting, Koganei Park in western Tokyo is one of the largest parks in the area and features over 1,700 cherry trees. It's a peaceful spot to enjoy hanami without the crowds. The park also hosts a Sakura Festival each year with food stalls, music, and performances. It’s perfect for a picnic and a relaxed sakura experience.
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
- 🌸Location: 1-chōme-6-6 Kōraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0004, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 9:00-17:00
- 🌸Ticket price: 300 Yen (about S$2.59) for adults, 150 Yen (about S$1.29) for those aged 65 and above, free for children and junior high school students
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, located near Tokyo Dome, is one of the oldest and most beautiful Japanese gardens in the city, dating back to the early 17th century.
The blooming sakura is often viewed alongside azaleas, magnolias, and other seasonal flowers. In the spring, special cherry blossom-related tea ceremonies and cultural events are sometimes held.
Tokyo Disneyland
Source: Trip Moments
- 🌸Location: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan
- 🌸Opening hours: 09:00-21:00
- 🌸Ticket price: From S$72.55
If you're looking for something a little more whimsical, Tokyo Disneyland has its own cherry blossoms. The park celebrates sakura with special springtime events and decorations. The iconic Cinderella Castle framed by blooming cherry trees is a photographer’s dream!
Where to stay in Tokyo during cherry blossom season?
During cherry blossom season in Tokyo, staying near the city’s top sakura spots will make your experience even more memorable.
Consider hotels near Ueno Park for easy access to the beautiful cherry blossoms and nearby attractions.
If you prefer a more traditional atmosphere, opt for hotels in Asakusa, close to Senso-ji Temple and Sumida Park, where you can enjoy both sakura and the charm of old Tokyo.
If you want a modern vibe, hotels in Shibuya or Roppongi are close to Yoyogi Park and Roppongi Hills. Wherever you choose to stay, Tokyo’s excellent public transport makes it easy to explore the best sakura spots around the city.
Transportation tips for exploring Tokyo
Getting around Tokyo is easy. Here are some tips to help you explore the city like a local during your cherry blossom adventure:
Use the JR Yamanote Line
The JR Yamanote Line is a loop line that connects major districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ueno, and Akihabara. It’s perfect for tourists, as it stops at many key attractions and is easy to use. If you’re visiting places like Ueno Park or Shibuya, this line is your best bet.
Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway
The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway network are extensive and cover almost every corner of the city. Suica or Pasmo cards work on both systems, making it easy to hop on and off without worrying about buying individual tickets. Use apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia for route planning!
Use a Suica or Pasmo Card
Suica card and Pasmo Card are the most convenient way to pay for subway, bus, and train rides. Simply top them up and tap them at the gates. They also work in convenience stores and vending machines, making them incredibly useful for a variety of small purchases.
Take the Water Bus
For a unique way to explore the city, try the Tokyo Water Bus. During cherry blossom season, you can catch boat rides along the Sumida River for a different perspective of the sakura.
FAQ about cherry blossoms in Tokyo
Can I see cherry blossoms in Tokyo’s parks for free?
Yes, many of Tokyo’s top cherry blossom spots, such as Ueno Park and Sumida Park, are free to enter.Can I bring a picnic while enjoying the cherry blossoms?
Absolutely! Picnicking under the sakura trees is a tradition in Japan. Many parks welcome picnickers during the cherry blossom season. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and respect the local rules regarding food and drink in the parks.How do I know when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom?
Japan has a cherry blossom forecast (sakura zensen) that tracks the progress of the blossoms across the country. Websites and apps like Japan Meteorological Corporation and Sakura Forecast provide updates on when the flowers are expected to bloom and when they will reach full bloom in various locations, including Tokyo.What should I bring when viewing cherry blossoms in Tokyo?
It's a good idea to bring a blanket or mat for sitting under the trees, especially if you plan to picnic. Don't forget a camera to capture the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossoms! If you're visiting during peak bloom, be prepared for crowds.