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Tokyo Cherry Blossoms 2025: Where to See, Season, Festivals
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Learn the best places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo in the 2025 spring season, from parks and gardens to festivals and evening light-ups.
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This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo: Blooming Season in 2025
Tokyo is home to many parks and gardens where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in spring. Famous locations include Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi Park near the Imperial Palace, Rikugien Garden, and others.
According to the latest forecast, in 2025, Tokyo's cherry blossoms are expected to start blooming from March 26 and reach full bloom around April 2. (Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation)
Each park and garden in Tokyo hosts its own cherry blossom festival. Most locations also have cherry blossom light-ups in the evening, making it possible for visitors to enjoy the surreal beauty of the blossoms at night.
Read on to learn the highlights of 20 famous cherry blossom spots in Tokyo, including the dates of their festivals and evening light-ups.
Tokyo's Cherry Blossom Parks and Festivals
1. Chidorigafuchi Park near the Imperial Palace
2. Meguro River
3. Ueno Park
4. Sumida Park near Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree
5. Yoyogi Park
6. Edogawa Park and Kanda River
7. Tokyo Midtown
8. Aoyama Cemetery
9. East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
10. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
11. Hamarikyu Gardens
12. Shiba Park
13. Hibiya Park
14. Rikugien Garden
15. Inokashira Park
16. Koganei Park
17. Asukayama Park
18. Showa Memorial Park
19. Mt. Takao
20. Ryushuin Temple
Other Tips
Weather and What to Wear during Cherry Blossom Season
Manners during Cherry Blossom Viewing Parties
Early and Late Cherry Blossom Varieties
1. Chidorigafuchi Park near the Imperial Palace
Photo by Pixta
Chidorigafuchi, a road that runs along the west side of the Imperial Palace, is home to an assortment of cherry trees that truly speak to the Japanese spirit, with the trees accented by the freshly sprung greenery and the palace’s moat.
Though there are several skyscrapers located in the distance, these shouldn’t detract from the cherry blossom viewing experience. The area is beautifully lit up at night.
The Chidorigafuchi Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 will be held from March 12 to April 23, with cherry blossom light-ups from March 28 to April 8.
Photo by Pixta
The nearby Yasukuni Shrine is particularly famous for being home to the Somei Yoshino cherry tree that the Japan Meteorological Agency uses to determine the official day when the cherry trees bloomed for the first time that year in Tokyo. This cherry blossom tree designated as a specimen was established here in 1966.
There are about 600 cherry trees of the Somei Yoshino variety on the shrine grounds making it a popular destination for cherry blossom viewing.
Chiyoda Ward Chidorigafuchi Park
1-2, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0082
Hotels near Chiyoda Ward Chidorigafuchi Park
2. Meguro River
Photo by Pixta
Meguro River is flanked by around 800 cherry trees on both sides, stretching for about 3.8 km. At night, lanterns are lit, making for a dreamlike cherry blossom experience.
There are several cherry blossom festivals held in the districts along the Meguro River but the most famous one is the Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival, which will be held on March 29 and 30 in 2025.
The best way to enjoy the cherry blossoms here is by taking a stroll along the river and trying some of the treats offered by the many food stalls set up for the event.
The closest stations for Meguro River are JR Meguro Station or Nakameguro Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line.
Meguro River Cherry Blossom Trees
Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0061
Hotels near Meguro River Cherry Blossom Trees
3. Ueno Park
Photo by Pixta
No article on cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo would be complete without Ueno Park. In spring, the park is visited by thousands of families, company workers, and students all looking to take in the beautiful pink blossoms.
Since the park can get crowded during this time of year, we recommend meeting up with your party at Ueno Station rather than in the park itself.
The Ueno Sakura Festa, which is the park's cherry blossom festival, will be held from March 18 to April 6, 2025. This year, the festival encompasses three different areas and has many highlights, including food stalls and live shows.
You can enjoy the festival every day from 10:00 to 21:00 (*on the last day, it ends at 20:00).
Read also
Tokyo Metropolitan Ueno Onshi Park
〒110-0007 3-chome, Ikenohada, Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hotels near Tokyo Metropolitan Ueno Onshi Park
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4. Sumida Park
Photo by Pixta
Sumida Park, located just a short walk from Asakusa Station along the Sumida River, is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom viewing.
While walking along the river and enjoying the stunning cherry trees as their blossoms fall into the water is a wonderful experience, we also recommend chartering a pleasure boat for a unique view of the trees from the river. Additionally, the nearby Tokyo Skytree offers a striking contrast between the old and the new in the cityscape.
The cherry blossom festival at Sumida Park is held from March 16 to April 6, 2025. Visit in the evenings to enjoy the beautiful light-ups!
Sumida Park
Tokyo, Sumida Ward, Mukojima 1-3
Hotels near Sumida Park
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5. Yoyogi Park
Photo by Pixta
Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Yoyogi Park to enjoy the cherry blossoms. The park is home to around 500 cherry trees, primarily of the Somei Yoshino variety.
Visitors can purchase snacks like yakisoba from stalls and catering carts set up throughout the park, or many choose to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the shade of the trees.
During cherry blossom season, lines for public restrooms can be quite long. To avoid waiting, consider locating a nearby restroom ahead of time or limit your consumption of beverages.
The closest stations for Yoyogi Park are JR Harajuku Station, Yoyogi Koen Station on the Chiyoda Metro Line, and the Meiji Jingumae (Harajuku) Station on the Chiyoda Metro and Fukutoshin Lines.
Yoyogi park
151-0052 2-1 Yoyogi Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
It is easily accessible from the station, and on weekends it is crowded with many people for cycling, picnics, musical instrument practice, various events, and flea markets. We also recommend spreading out the leisure sheet and relaxing in nature while looking at the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Hotels near Yoyogi park
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6. Edogawa Park and the Garden of Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
The alley along Kanda River from Edogawabashi Station to Komazuka Bridge is one of the prime cherry blossom spots in Tokyo. This area is part of Edogawa Park.
Visit between March 29 and mid-April to enjoy the cherry blossoms lit up in the evenings. The most attractive feature of this place is that the branches are close to the ground, making it possible to see the blooms up close.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The beautiful garden of Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo is closeby, offering stunning views of historical monuments surrounded by cherry blossoms. Over twenty varieties of sakura can be found in this garden, which makes it possible to enjoy the cherry blossoms here for around two months!
A sea of clouds is released several times a day in the garden. After dark, the garden is beautifully illuminated at night with a thousand lights. If you wish to have an extraordinary experience of the cherry blossom season, do visit Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo this spring. (*Please note that this garden can be accessed only by visitors who use the restaurants and other facilities within the hotel.)
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
Hotels near Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
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7. Tokyo Midtown
Photo by Pixta
Tokyo Midtown, a commercial complex near Roppongi, features about 103 cherry blossom trees, primarily of the Somei Yoshino variety. Visitors can also enjoy an additional 44 cherry blossom trees in the adjacent Hinokicho Park.
From March 14 to April 13, the facility hosts the MIDTOWN BLOSSOM 2025, an event that celebrates cherry blossoms.
At night, the cherry blossom trees are beautifully illuminated, creating a dreamlike spring atmosphere right in the heart of the city.
Tokyo Midtown
9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052
Hotels near Tokyo Midtown
8. Aoyama Cemetery
Photo by Pixta
Aoyama Cemetery, located in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, is a lovely place to stroll and enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms.
However, unlike other hanami spots, visitors are not allowed to spread out tarps or consume alcohol in the cemetery. Additionally, the cemetery closes at night, so be sure to visit during the day.
9. East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
Photo by Pixta
Located near Tokyo Station, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (Kokyo Higashi Gyoen) are home to 200 cherry trees of different varieties that bloom in order, from early March to mid-April.
With historical sites and a free museum featuring valuable works of art, this site is an excellent destination for visitors interested in Japanese history and culture, especially after enjoying a walk among the blooming cherry blossoms.
Imperial Palace East Gardens
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8111
Hotels near Imperial Palace East Gardens
10. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
Photo by Pixta
Built at the beginning of the Edo period (1603-1868), Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of Tokyo's two large Japanese gardens, alongside Rikugien Garden. Visitors are not permitted to spread out tarps or have picnics, so enjoying the cherry blossoms here is limited to walking tours.
After viewing the blossoms, be sure to check out Tokyo Dome, located right next door. This major stadium and performance venue hosts regular events, and there are numerous nearby restaurants, shopping options, and a small amusement park. The closest station to the garden is Iidabashi Station on the Oedo Line.
Koishikawa Korakuen
112-0004 1-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Koishikawa Korakuen is a Japanese garden located in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo. The garden imitates the scenery of various places such as Lake Biwa and Arashiyama in Kyoto, and about 480 maple trees are vividly colored in autumn. A fall foliage festival is held in November, and you can enjoy tea ceremonies and traditional performing arts. It is close to the station, and there are amusement facilities such as Tokyo Dome City in the surrounding area.
Hotels near Koishikawa Korakuen
11. Hamarikyu Gardens
Photo by Pixta
Also established during the Edo period, the Hamarikyu Gardens have been designated as a special historic and aesthetic landmark.
If you are in the Shimbashi or Ginza area and want to enjoy cherry blossoms, we recommend visiting Hamarikyu Gardens. This expansive garden features around 100 cherry trees, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Hamarikyu Gardens
Tokyo, Chuo ward, Hamarikyu Gardens 1-1
Hotels near Hamarikyu Gardens
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12. Shiba Park
Photo by Pixta
Shiba Park, located at the foot of Tokyo Tower, has around 200 cherry trees and is a great place to engage in hanami with the bright orange symbol of Tokyo jutting up in the background. Areas around the Maruyama Fountain and Benten Pond, located within the park, are especially popular sites for hanami.
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13. Hibiya Park
Photo by Pixta
Hibiya Park is a spot in central Tokyo surrounded by skyscrapers, where you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms. Around 40 cherry trees are planted and bloom here during the sakura season.
The park is known as the first contemporary park to be established in Japan and is over 100 years old. You will notice a large fountain in the middle of the pond, which is rare in Japanese parks. Typically frequented by office employees taking breaks from work, a visit here will also give you a glimpse of daily life in Tokyo.
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14. Rikugien Garden
Photo by Pixta
Rikugien Garden is one of the big two Japanese-style gardens that can be enjoyed in Tokyo (the other is Koishikawa Korakuen). The gardens are beautiful year-round, but especially striking in the springtime when the drooping cherry trees come into bloom.
With the garden bathed in pink throughout the day, once the sun sets the cherry blossoms are lit up, bringing about a whole new beauty to the blossoming buds.
In 2025, the cherry blossoms will be lit up from March 16 until March 24 in the 18:30 - 21:00 time interval (last entry at 20:00). Evening admission fees are 900 yen for tickets bought online in advance, or 1,100 yen for same-day tickets.
Rikugien Garden
113-0021 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Rikugien Garden is one of the most famous Japanese gardens. This garden was built in 1702 and covers a vast area of approximately 8.9 hectares. Rikugien is known as a strolling garden with a rocky mountain spring, and its beauty and perfection was such that even the Edo period shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, visited it many times.
Hotels near Rikugien Garden
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15. Inokashira Park
Photo by Pixta
At Inokashira Park, located a short walk from Kichijoji Station, visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms from the park or from a paddle boat in the park’s lake.
Photo by Pixta
The park’s 500 cherry trees in bloom is simply amazing, drawing in tons of families and couples from around the city. The park’s pond is especially beautiful as it reflects the ocean of pink surrounding it.
Inokashira Park
Tokyo, Musashino, Gotenyama 1-18-31
Hotels near Inokashira Park
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16. Koganei Park
Photo by Pixta
Koganei Park is home to the largest number of cherry trees in the city, coming in at around 1,700 with over 50 different varieties. At the festival held on the first Saturday and Sunday in April, visitors can enjoy events featuring traditional performing arts, Japanese dancing, ikebana, and tea houses.
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17. Asukayama Park
Photo by Pixta
Asukayama Park boasts around 300 years of history as a favorite sakura viewing spot for locals in Tokyo's Kita ward. Approximately 650 cherry trees bloom in spring at this expansive park. It is an ideal place to enjoy a day full of flowers and hanami picnics.
Parkgoers can enjoy viewing antique steam engine trains that were used in Tokyo, too, making it a great spot for families and those traveling with children.
Asukayama Park
1-1-3 Oji, Kita-ku, Tokyo 114-0002
This famous cherry blossom spot was established about 300 years ago by the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, as a recreational spot for the common people of Edo. Within the park, there are three museums and Shibusawa Garden, where you can enjoy history and culture. The large castle-shaped playground equipment, which is over 7 meters high, is very popular with children. This is a charming park that combines nature, history, and play.
Hotels near Asukayama Park
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18. Showa Memorial Park
Photo by Pixta
Located in Tachikawa, the Showa Memorial Park is home to about 1,500 cherry trees. The Sakura no Sono area of the park features several varieties of cherry trees and is especially beautiful!
Bring your tarp, some food and drinks, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon under the blossoms.
Read also
Showa Kinen Park
3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa, Tokyo
Showa Kinen Park is a national park that opened in 1983. It straddles Akishima and Tachikawa cities on the outskirts of Tokyo.
The park is home to a variety of facilities, including a cultural center, a cafe, a Japanese garden, a dog run, a grassy plain, and a barbecue garden, and is visited by many people throughout the year.
You can experience the changing seasons through the flowers that bloom, such as cherry blossoms and tulips in spring, hydrangeas and sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn.
Photo by Pixta
Hotels near Showa Kinen Park
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19. Mt. Takao
Photo by Pixta
The rustic Mt. Takao is another famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring. This Tokyo peak is the ideal option for those looking to enjoy a more rural scene while still being close to the city.
Cherry trees line the hiking paths, and there are mountain temple buildings scattered around the mountainside. From the top, you can get a view of more sakura and, on a clear day, Mt. Fuji. For those who want to go straight to the top, there is a cable car and ropeway that will bring you to the peak.
Please note that Mt. Takao is a popular destination on the weekends. If you visit during the cherry blossom season, try to go on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Mount Takao
Takaocho, Hachioji City, Tokyo Prefecture 193-0844
Mount Takao, which belongs to Hachioji City, Tokyo, is located about 50 kilometers southeast of the Kanto Mountains, from the center of Tokyo. Takao is a Japanese mountain located in Hachioji, Tokyo, and one of the most visited mountains in Tokyo.
At the foot of Mt. Takao, from Kiyotaki Station to Mt. Takaosan Station on the hillside, there is a cable car that runs up about 1,000 meters. You can easily reach the middle of Mt. Takao in about 6 minutes while looking out over the nature of Mt. Takao.
On Mt. Takao, there is a legend about Tengu, a monster that appears in the mountains. This legend, combined with the nature and atmosphere of Mt. Takao, is an attractive factor for those who are interested in mountain worship and yokai. While climbing Mt. Takao, there are also shops that sell goods and food with Tengu images. In addition, there are places where tengu monuments and sculptures are installed on the summit.
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20. Ryushuin Temple
Photo by Pixta
Nestled within the scenic mountains of Akiruno in western Tokyo are Otsu Hana-no Sato Flower Garden and Ryushuin Temple, offering picturesque views of Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry trees mingling with vibrant fields of yellow blooms, rhododendrons, and Mitsuba azaleas.
Adjacent to the garden is the serene Ryushuin Temple, a Buddhist sanctuary that houses a charming tea shop, providing a tranquil haven to unwind amidst the blooming beauties.
A 50-minute trip from Shinjuku, Akiruno City boasts nature, hot springs, art, and cuisine. The garden is located near Furusato Kobo Itsukaichi Workshop, perfect for art lovers interested in crafting Japanese paper.
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Weather and What to Wear during Cherry Blossom Season
From the end of March to the beginning of April, it gets to be around 10℃ in Tokyo, a little chilly to say the least.
While you don’t need a thick winter coat, you’ll definitely need a jacket. Still, once the sun goes down the temperature drops considerably, so be sure to pack accordingly if you plan to be out late.
Manners during Cherry Blossom Viewing Parties
Picture from Hanami - How To Enjoy Cherry Blossom Viewing
A lot of people come out to view the cherry blossoms every year, so it’s important to mind your manners when picking out a spot for your picnic and when throwing away your garbage so that everyone can enjoy their time outside together!
Manners When Picking Out a Spot
Photo by Pixta
The typical way that people set their spot for hanami is to lay out a tarp. However, one thing to keep in mind when doing this is don’t take any more space than you’ll need. If you end up taking too much space, then other people won’t be able to enjoy the flowers!
Also, somebody needs to stay behind after you set down your tarp. If not, security guards may come by and throw away your stuff, so make sure to leave someone behind to hold your spot.
Also, even if you get your spot, the wind can easily blow your tarp away, so use some nearby stones to keep the tarp from being blown away. Please don’t stick pegs into the ground or into tree roots!
Though this differs by location and day, some people may get there first thing in the morning or even the night before to claim their spot for their picnic. Though this may be difficult for guests visiting from out of town, it’s usually a good idea to try and get your spot as early as possible.
Sorting Trash and Throwing It Away
Photo by Pixta
Areas of the city with cherry trees are usually located in parks or along rivers, meaning that the majority of them are located in public spaces. Still, local municipalities are typically conscious of hanami season and set up places for people to throw away their trash, so don’t be a litterbug!
Just like with convenience stores and regular trash pickups, these trash boxes will be separated into different types of garbage for recycling, so make sure to abide by the signs and put trash in its proper place. The picture here shows the trash can area at Ueno Park during the Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival).
Typically, trash is separated into the following categories: combustible, non-combustible, glass bottles, and metal cans.
Early and Late Cherry Blossom Types
Photo by Pixta
Depending on the type of sakura tree, you may be able to see cherry blossoms that bloom earlier or later than the beginning of April.
For example, Kawazu-zakura is a type of cherry blossom that can be viewed as early as February until around mid-March. This type of cherry blossom is native to Kawazu, an area in Shizuoka prefecture.
On the other hand, if you visit Japan around the beginning of April, you may be able to catch the Yae-zakura, a layered type of cherry blossom that blooms a week or two after the regular sakura.
Read also
Tips for Enjoying a Spring Trip in Tokyo
Photo by Pixta
In Japan, the cherry blossom season is a great occasion for people to gather and have fun eating and drinking at a picnic under the cherry trees. If you visit Japan at this time of the year, join the party!
Please keep in mind the manners mentioned above, look for a great place to see the cherry blossoms and enjoy your time.
FAQ
How long is the cherry blossom season in Japan?
The cherry blossom season typically spans from late March to early May, varying slightly depending on the specific location within Japan and the weather conditions of a given year. This period encompasses the blooming, full bloom, and falling of the cherry blossoms, which generally lasts for about one to two weeks in each location. Keep in mind that the exact timing of cherry blossom season can fluctuate annually due to factors such as weather, making it essential to stay updated on bloom forecasts when planning a visit.
What park in Tokyo is best to see cherry blossoms?
Tokyo offers several stunning locations to view cherry blossoms, but one of the most popular is Ueno Park. During cherry blossom season, Ueno Park becomes a prime hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spot, featuring over a thousand cherry trees that burst into beautiful pink and white blooms. The park's large open spaces, pathways, and central lotus pond make for a picturesque setting to enjoy hanami picnics and strolls beneath the blossoms.
If you're seeking a less crowded location, we recommend Asukayama Park, Sumida Park, or Koganei Park, where you can enjoy the blossoms leisurely.
How long do cherry blossoms last in Tokyo?
In Tokyo, the cherry blossom season typically lasts for about one to two weeks. The duration can vary depending on factors such as weather, the specific variety of cherry trees, and other natural conditions. Once the cherry blossoms reach full bloom, the iconic pink and white blooms generally remain at their peak for about three to seven days, after which the petals slowly begin to fall, signaling the end of the cherry blossom season.
What is the cherry blossom capital of Japan?
The city of Kyoto is often considered the historic and cultural heart of Japan and is regarded as one of the foremost locations for experiencing the beauty of cherry blossoms. Renowned for its stunning cherry blossom displays in spring, particularly around famous sites such as Maruyama Park, Kiyomizudera Temple, and the Philosopher's Path, Kyoto is often referred to as the "cherry blossom capital of Japan." The city's rich cultural heritage and its numerous iconic cherry blossom spots make it a must-visit destination during the sakura season.
What do you wear to see cherry blossoms?
When viewing the cherry blossoms in Japan, it's best to wear comfortable clothing suitable for spending time outdoors. Light and casual attire, including shirts, blouses, and comfortable pants or skirts, in addition to walking shoes, is ideal. Layering is also advisable as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Carrying a light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler mornings or evenings.
What is the app for cherry blossom forecast?
One popular app for cherry blossom forecasts in Japan is the "Sakura Navi" app, which provides up-to-date information about cherry blossom blooming times and conditions across the country. This app is widely used by locals and visitors alike to plan hanami (flower viewing) outings and trips during the cherry blossom season. Additionally, various websites and travel apps often provide sakura forecasts and updates to help people track the progression of cherry blossoms blooming in different regions of Japan.
Read also
Main image by Pixta
Written by
This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
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