Sakura season is one of the most popular times of year to visit Japan, with the blossoms turning the country varying shades of pink. The season is so revered that a list of 100 Top Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots was created by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association, and Tokyo is home to five of them.
If you're wondering what the top spots are in the prefecture, look no further!
Shinjuku Gyoen
A popular destination year-round, Shinjuku Gyoen really shines during the spring months. The grounds are home to around 1000 sakura trees in a host of different types, with early, mid, and late blooming varieties really stretching out the season. Unlike the other parks on this list, Shinjuku Gyoen does come with an admission fee (¥500 for adults), but many would say it's well worth it to enjoy the beauty on display.
11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014
Inokashira Park
Opened in 1917, Inokashira Park is home to around 500 cherry trees which surround the park's pond. During the blooming season, a popular way to appreciate the blossoms is via a swan boat on the water, but simply taking a stroll or setting up a picnic under them is also an option. The park makes for a family-friendly day out as there is a small zoo on the grounds, plus the famous Ghibli Museum (reservations are required for the latter).
1 Chome-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0005
Sumida Park
Sitting along both banks of the Sumida River, Sumida Park has around 1000 cherry trees in several types growing on its grounds. The trees are typically at their best around the late March timeframe, and a pleasant way to appreciate them is from the aptly named Sakurabashi (Sakura Bridge) which allows visitors to see the trees on both sides of the park – plus a fantastic view of Tokyo Skytree!
1 Chome Hanakawado, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0033
Ueno Park
Another family-friendly destination, Ueno Park has approximately 1000 cherry trees for springtime visitors to appreciate. Expect crowds, however, as this is one of the city's most-visited sakura spots. While you're there, add on a trip to Ueno Zoo or one of the several museums on the grounds to round out your day.
Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8718
Koganei Park
Spanning a whopping 80 hectares, Koganei Park is home to almost 2000 cherry trees in a host of different varieties. Of those, around 400 are situated in a dedicated cherry tree garden on the grounds, creating a magical springtime scene. Outside sakura season, the park still offers visitors plenty to enjoy – camellias, azaleas, hydrangeas, and cosmos flowers are just some of the highlights at different times of the year.
1 Chome-13-1 Sekinocho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-0001
