15 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Central Tokyo

Hello, I visited Tokyo to see the cherry blossoms in late March. I was there between March 28 and April 2, 2018.

Due to the unusually hot weather in March 2018, cherry blossoms bloomed 5-7 days earlier than the average. Historically, cherry blossoms in Tokyo are at their peak between late March and early April. However, this year, they began to bloom beautifully as early as March 25th.

For convenience and cost-effectiveness, I opted to stay at Hotel Felice Akasaka, a newly opened hotel in central Tokyo near popular cherry blossom viewing spots. I used this hotel as a base for exploring the cherry blossoms via the subway, utilizing the Tokyo Metro Pass. I would like to share my review of Hotel Felice Akasaka.

Tokyo, one of the world's largest metropolises, has a population of over 35 million people in its metropolitan area. Despite its dense population, Tokyo boasts numerous green spaces and parks. Remarkably, this bustling city is adorned with renowned cherry blossom viewing spots. Notably, the 23 special wards in the eastern part of the city become particularly crowded during the cherry blossom season.

This review compiles 15 famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo, along with information on the 2018 cherry blossom blooming period. This can be used as a guide for planning your cherry blossom viewing in the following year.

1. Meguro River (Meguro Ward)

2. Kameido Kyuchome Park (Koto Ward)

3. Ueno Park (Taitō Ward)

4. Chidorigafuchi (Chiyoda Ward)

5. Yoyogi Park (Shibuya Ward)

6. Inokashira Park (Musashino City)

7. Koganei Park (Koganei City)

8. Negawaryokuchi (Tachikawa City)

9. Showakinen Park (Tachikawa City)

10 Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku Ward)

11. Hikarigaoka Park (Nerima Ward)

12. Shakujiigawa Cherry Blossom Promenade (Itabashiku Ward)

13. Asukayama Park (Kita Ward)

14. Koishikawa Botanical Garden (Bunkyō Ward)

15. Sumida Park (Sumida Ward)

Accommodation at Hotel Felice Akasaka, a brand-new hotel located in the Minatoku district.

1. Meguro River (目黒川)

Located in the special ward of Meguroku, one of the top destinations for cherry blossom viewing in central Tokyo, Megurogawa stands out as a must-visit spot.

Along the 3.8-kilometer promenade flanking the Meguro River, a concrete canal flowing into Tokyo Bay, Somei Yoshino cherry trees burst into bloom, welcoming visitors from late March to early April each year. The Hanami festival, with its romantic atmosphere and light displays, celebrates this spectacular floral display.

Photo taken on March 28, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom bloom information at Megurogawa

Start blooming: March 18, 2018

Full Bloom: March 25, 2018

Start date: March 29, 2018

🚶‍♀️ Travel: A short walk from Naka-Meguro Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi Line to Kasumigaseki Station and transfer to the Hibiya Line to Naka-Meguro Station. The journey takes 22 minutes and is free of charge. (AkasakaMitsuke - Kasumigaseki - NakaMeguro)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.645326,139.699099

2. Kameido Kyuchome Ryokudo Park (亀戸九丁目緑道公園)

This park is located in the Kotoku Special Ward of Tokyo and offers several vantage points for enjoying the Tokyo Skytree. Kameido Kyuchome Ryokudo Park is a particularly popular spot, especially during the cherry blossom season.

This beautiful park is located along the Kyunakagawa River (旧中川), not far from the popular tourist destinations of Asakusa and the Sumida River. Although the park has over a hundred cherry blossom trees, the most popular photo spot is the row of cherry trees along the riverbank with the Fureai Bridge (ふれあい橋) and Tokyo Skytree in the background.

📸 Photo taken on March 29, 2018.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Bloom Information at Kameido Kyuchome Ryokudo Park

Start blooming: March 20, 2018

Full Bloom: March 25, 2018

Start date: March 31, 2018

🚉 Directions: 10-minute walk from JR Hirai Station (South Exit)

A five-minute walk from Hotel Felice Akasaka leads to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi Line to Yotsuya Station, then transfer to the JR Chuo/Sobu Line and get off at Hirai Station. Exit through the South Exit and walk for another 10 minutes to Fureai Bridge (ふれあい橋). Admission is free. (AkasakaMitsuke - Yotsuya - Hirai)

🌏 Coordinates: 35.699693, 139.843250

3. Ueno Park (Ueno Onshi Kōen)

A renowned and bustling park in the heart of Tokyo, Ueno Park is particularly crowded during cherry blossom season. It is recognized as one of the top 100 locations in Japan to view cherry blossoms. The park boasts over 1,000 cherry trees lining the path leading to the National Museum and Shinobazu Pond. Typically, the cherry blossoms at this park bloom 1-3 days earlier than those in other areas of Tokyo.

Photo taken on March 29, 2018.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Bloom Information at Ueno Park 🌸

Blooming period: March 20, 2018

Full Bloom: March 25, 2018

Start date: March 31, 2018

🚶‍♀️ 5-minute walk from Ueno Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Ginza subway line to Ueno Station. Then walk another 5 minutes to the park. Admission is free. (AkasakaMitsuke - Ueno)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.716012,139.773890

4. Chidorigafuchi (千鳥ヶ淵)

This place is usually not very popular with tourists, but it becomes crowded with people when the cherry blossoms bloom. It is considered a must-see when visiting Tokyo during the cherry blossom season.

Chidorigafuchi, located in the Chiyoda Special Ward, boasts hundreds of cherry blossom trees lining the moat of the former Edo Castle. Visitors can enjoy boat rentals to paddle through the moat, and at night, the area is illuminated with beautiful lights.

Photo taken on March 29, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom bloom information at Chidorigafuchi

Start blooming: March 20, 2018

Full Bloom: March 26, 2018

Start date: March 31, 2018

🚶‍♀️ 2-minute walk from Kudanshita Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a three-minute walk to Akasaka Station. Take the Chiyoda subway line to Otemachi Station, then transfer to the Hanzomon line to Kudanshita Station. Exit the station and you will find the park. The journey takes 16 minutes and is free of charge (Akasaka - Otemachi - Kudanshita).

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.690360,139.748533

5. Yoyogi Park

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Shibuya ward, Yoyogi Park boasts over 600 cherry blossom trees, creating a breathtaking spectacle during the spring bloom. This expansive green oasis offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, with food vendors and ample space for relaxation. A popular destination for hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of flower viewing, Yoyogi Park transforms into a vibrant tapestry of pink and white hues as the cherry blossoms reach their peak.

Photo taken on March 28, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom bloom information at Yoyogi Park

Blooming period: March 20, 2018

Full Bloom: March 26, 2018

Start date: March 30, 2018

🚉 Directions: 5-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, walk three minutes to Akasaka Station. Take the Chiyoda subway line to Meiji-Jingumae Station and walk to the park. Admission is free. (Akasaka - MeijiJingumae)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.673041,139.695071

6. Inokashira Park (Inokashira Onshi Kōen)

A mid-sized park in Musashino City, Tokyo, has been recognized as one of the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. The park boasts hundreds of cherry trees lining a picturesque pond, offering visitors the opportunity to rent paddle boats and enjoy the blossoms from a unique perspective.

Photo taken on March 30, 2018.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Bloom Information at Inokashira Park 🌸

Start blooming: March 22, 2018

Full Bloom: March 30, 2018

Start date: April 2, 2018

🚶‍♀️ Travel: 5-minute walk from JR Kichijoji Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a 5-minute walk to Tameike-Sanno Station. Take the Nanboku subway line to Yotsuya Station before changing to the JR Chuo Line to Kichijoji Station. Walk another 5 minutes to the park. Admission is free. (TameikeSanno - Yotsuya-Kichijoji)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.700314,139.573339

7. Koganei Park (小金井公園)

Koganei Park: A Top 100 Cherry Blossom Destination in Japan

Nestled in the suburbs of Koganei City, west of Tokyo, Koganei Park boasts a place among the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. This expansive park is home to over a thousand cherry trees, primarily concentrated around the Sakura no en garden and the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Museum. Typically, the cherry blossoms in Koganei Park bloom two to three days later than those in central Tokyo, offering visitors a slightly extended window to witness their ephemeral beauty.

Photo taken on April 2, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom information at Koganei Park

Blooming period: March 21, 2018

Full Bloom: March 29, 2018

Start date: April 2, 2018

🚉 Travel: Take a 5-minute bus ride or a 20-30 minute walk from JR Musashi-Koganei Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka:

1. Walk 5 minutes to Tameike-Sanno Station.
2. Take the Nanboku subway line to Yotsuya Station.
3. Transfer to the JR Chuo Line and travel to JR Musashi-Koganei Station.
4. Take a 5-minute bus ride or a 20-30 minute walk to the park.

Note: Admission to the park is free.

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.717120,139.517823

8. Negawa Ryokuchi (根川緑道)

A Tranquil Escape: Cherry Blossoms Along the Negawa River

Nestled in the city of Tachikawa, just outside the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, lies a serene haven for cherry blossom enthusiasts. The Negawa River, stretching over 1.3 kilometers, is adorned with rows of cherry trees, planted in celebration of Emperor Taisho's reign. This picturesque setting offers a tranquil escape from the urban clamor, providing a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the ethereal beauty of the blooming season.

Photo taken on March 31, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom blooming information at Negawa Ryokuchi

Blooming period: March 23, 2018

Full Bloom: March 28, 2018

Start date: April 1, 2018

🚉 Journey: 5-minute walk from Shibasakitaiikukan Station to Negawa Stream

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi subway line to Shinjuku Station, then transfer to the JR Chuo line to JR Tachikawa Station.

From JR Tachikawa Station, walk to Tachikawaminami Station. Take the Tama Monorail from Tachikawaminami Station to Shibasakitaiikukan Station. Then walk to the Negawa River.

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.689009,139.408133

9. Showa Memorial Park (National Showa Memorial Park)

One of the largest parks in western Tokyo, located in Tachikawa City, is renowned for its stunning beauty during both the cherry blossom season and the fall foliage season.

This 16,300-acre garden is renowned for its vibrant spring atmosphere, where over 1,500 cherry blossom trees bloom in unison, welcoming visitors for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). The garden also offers bicycle rentals (410 yen for 3 hours) for a leisurely exploration of its scenic grounds.

Photo taken on March 31, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom bloom information at Showa Memorial Park

Start blooming: March 24, 2018

Full Bloom: April 1, 2018

Start date: April 7, 2018

🚉 Travel: Two-minute walk from JR Nishi-Tachikawa Station.

A five-minute walk from Hotel Felice Akasaka leads to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi Line to Yotsuya Station, then transfer to the JR Chuo Line and get off at JR Nishi-Tachikawa Station. The garden is a two-minute walk from the station. The entrance fee is 410 yen, and the opening hours are from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. (AkasakaMitsuke - Yotsuya - JR NishiTachikawa)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.704872,139.404667

10. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

A large park in the heart of Tokyo, located in the Shinjuku Special Ward, is ranked among the Top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. With over a thousand cherry trees of various species, the park boasts spacious lawns and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for relaxation and Hanami during the cherry blossom season. This park is a great destination for those who miss the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, as it also features late-blooming Sato Sakura trees.

Photo taken on April 2, 2018.

🌸 Information on the blooming of Sato Sakura at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

First bloom: March 29, 2018

Full Bloom: April 3, 2018

Start date: April 9, 2018

🚶‍♀️ 10-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi subway line to Shinjuku Station, then walk 10 minutes from JR Shinjuku Station (or 5 minutes from Subway Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station). The entrance fee to the garden is 200 yen, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm (Akasaka-Mitsuke - Shinjuku).

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.686200,139.709749

11. Hikarigaoka Park (光が丘公園)

A large park in Nerimaku, Tokyo, boasts over a thousand cherry trees of various species.

In addition to being a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, the park offers a variety of recreational facilities, including a baseball field, an outdoor athletic field, tennis courts, a soccer field, an archery range, a fitness room, and a playground for young children. It also houses a public library within the park grounds.

Photo taken on April 1, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom bloom information at Hikarigaoka Park

Blooming period: March 22, 2018

Full Bloom: March 29, 2018

Start falling: April 2, 2018

🚉 Transportation: 8-minute walk from Hikarigaoka Subway Station

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi Line subway to Nakano-Sakaue Station, then transfer to the Oedo Line subway to Hikarigaoka Station. Walk 8 minutes to the park. No admission fee.

(Akasaka Mitsuke - Nakano Sakaue - Hikarigaoka)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.765874,139.629465

12. Shakujiigawa Cherry Blossom Promenade (石神井川桜並木)

From late March to early April each year, over 1,000 cherry trees of various cultivars, including Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Oshimazakura, bloom simultaneously along both sides of a 2-kilometer walkway bordering the Shakujii River in Itabashiku. This spectacle has transformed the Shakujii River into a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in central Tokyo. At night, the illuminated trees create a romantic atmosphere.

Photo taken on March 30, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom bloom information at Shakujiigawa Sakuranamiki

Blooming period: March 20, 2018

Full Bloom: March 26, 2018

Start date: March 30, 2018

Travel: 10-minute walk from Shin-Itabashi Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka:

• A 3-minute walk to Akasaka Station.
• Take the Chiyoda Line to Hibiya Station.
• Transfer to the Mita Line and get off at Shin-Itabashi Station.
• Take Exit A1 and walk for 10 minutes to the Shakujiigawa River. (Akasaka - Hibiya - Shin-Itabashi)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.752326,139.720683

13. Asukayama Park

This park is located on a hill above JR Oji Station in Kitaku Ward, and is one of the oldest cherry blossom viewing spots and hanami sites in Tokyo. The park is filled with hundreds of cherry trees, and there are light-up events at night.

Photo taken on March 30, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom information at Asukayama Park

Blooming begins: March 18, 2018

Full Bloom: March 26, 2018

Start date: March 31, 2018

🚉 Access: 2-minute walk from JR Oji Station

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a 5-minute walk to Tameike-Sanno Station. Take the Nanboku subway line to Oji Station and walk 2 minutes to the park. Admission is free. (TameikeSanno - Oji)

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.751177,139.738753

14. Koishikawa Botanical Garden

Koishikawa Botanical Garden: A Haven of Biodiversity and Beauty in the Heart of Tokyo

Nestled within the Bunkyouku district, a stone's throw from the prestigious University of Tokyo, lies the sprawling Koishikawa Botanical Garden. This verdant oasis offers a captivating glimpse into the world of flora, boasting an extensive collection of over a thousand rare and diverse plant species. Beyond its botanical treasures, the garden unveils the captivating allure of traditional Japanese landscaping, creating a harmonious blend of nature and artistry.

A Tapestry of Botanical Wonders:

Koishikawa Botanical Garden serves as a sanctuary for a myriad of plant life, showcasing a remarkable array of over a thousand species. Visitors can embark on a botanical journey, encountering a diverse spectrum of flora, from delicate ferns to towering trees. The garden's meticulously curated collection includes numerous rare and endangered species, offering a glimpse into the wonders of the plant kingdom.

A Celebration of Japanese Landscape Design:

Beyond its botanical treasures, Koishikawa Botanical Garden captivates with its exquisite Japanese landscape design. Meandering pathways weave through the garden, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Carefully placed ponds and waterfalls create a serene ambiance, while strategically positioned rocks and trees evoke a sense of harmony and balance. The garden's design embodies the principles of Japanese aesthetics, fostering a profound connection between nature and the human spirit.

A Legacy of Botanical Exploration:

Koishikawa Botanical Garden traces its roots back to the Edo period, serving as a testament to Japan's rich history of botanical exploration. Established in 1684, the garden has played a pivotal role in the advancement of botanical knowledge, contributing significantly to the understanding and appreciation of plant life. Today, it continues to serve as a center for botanical research and education, inspiring generations of scientists and nature enthusiasts.

A Sanctuary for All:

Koishikawa Botanical Garden welcomes visitors from all walks of life, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Whether seeking a moment of respite amidst nature's embrace or delving into the fascinating world of plants, the garden provides a sanctuary for all. Its serene atmosphere and educational exhibits make it an ideal destination for families, students, and nature lovers alike.

Conclusion:

Koishikawa Botanical Garden stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and human ingenuity. Its diverse collection of plant life, coupled with its exquisite Japanese landscape design, creates a captivating experience that transcends mere botanical observation. As a haven for biodiversity, a center for botanical exploration, and a sanctuary for all, Koishikawa Botanical Garden continues to inspire and educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

With its diverse cherry blossom varieties and expansive grounds, this garden has become a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot in Tokyo.

Photo taken on March 30, 2018.

🌸 Cherry blossom blooming information at Koishikawa Botanical Garden

Blooming period: March 18, 2018

Full Bloom: March 26, 2018

Start date: March 30, 2018

🚉 Access: 10-minute walk from Myogadani Subway Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Marunouchi subway line to Myogadani Station, then walk 10 minutes to the garden. Admission is 400 yen, open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (AkasakaMitsuke - Myogadani).

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.719373,139.745963

15. Sumidagawa (隅田川)

Another renowned cherry blossom viewing spot in the heart of Tokyo, ranked among the top 100 most beautiful cherry blossom viewing locations in Japan. This expansive park stretches for hundreds of meters along both banks of the Sumida River, offering breathtaking views of the Tokyo Sky Tree. Visitors can indulge in a romantic atmosphere by taking a boat ride to admire the cherry blossoms, while nighttime illumination enhances the experience.

📸 Photo taken on March 29, 2018.

🌸 Sumidagawa Park Cherry Blossom Bloom Information 🌸

Blooming period: March 18, 2018

Full Bloom: March 25, 2018

Start falling: March 29, 2018

🚶‍♀️ Directions: 2-minute walk from Asakusa(Tobu) Subway Station.

From Hotel Felice Akasaka, a five-minute walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. Take the Ginza subway line to Asakusa(Tobu) Station. Walk 2 minutes from Subway Asakusa(Tobu) Station to the Sumidagawa River. No admission fee (AkasakaMitsuke - AsakusaTobu).

🌏 Coordinates: http://www.google.com/maps/place/35.713791,139.803748

Thank you all for watching until the end. Friends can follow travel reviews and inquiries here FB jirobkk. https://www.facebook.com/jirobkk