When will the sakura bloom in Tokyo? Cherry blossom season is determined by the bloom of Somei Yoshino cherry trees, the most common variety in Japan.

Yasukuni Shrine is home to the official benchmark Somei-Yoshino tree for Tokyo's cherry blossom season. A specialist from the Japan Meteorological Agency declares the start when at least 5-6 buds bloom. During our visit around 7 AM, we counted 16! Later that morning, the start of the 2026 season was officially announced, beginning 5 days earlier than the average.

It’s now been five days since the official start of Tokyo’s cherry blossom season, and blooms are opening across the city! But where to see them as soon as you reach Tokyo?

Step out of Tokyo Station’s Yaesu Exit and you’re immediately greeted by a lively streetscape. Right in front of you is Tofrom Yaesu, a new complex set to begin opening later this year. Cross the street, and just to the north runs Sakura-dori, a street lined with cherry trees. The younger trees here are already nearing full bloom, while those further along are just beginning to open. As one of Tokyo’s well-known sakura spots, this area should reach its peak in about a week.

Follow Sakura-dori and you’ll arrive at Takashimaya, one of Japan’s most iconic department stores. (It’s also home to a Pokémon Center and Café, both currently under renovation through the end of June.)

From there, head left along Route 15 toward Nihombashi Bridge. Originally erected in 1604, this is the historic “center of Japan” and the official starting point of the country’s major highways, linking Edo (Tokyo) with the rest of Japan.

Just in front of the koban police box stands a striking weeping cherry tree, now in full bloom. Across the street, a massive new tower is rising in the Nihombashi 1-Chome area. Its dark glass exterior creates a beautiful contrast with the soft pink blossoms. Scheduled to open later this year, it will house shops, residences, and the Waldorf Astoria Nihombashi.

Continue along Route 15 and you’ll reach Mitsukoshi, another of Japan’s most storied department stores. This area is dotted with cherry trees that are just beginning to bloom, adding a soft touch to the historic streetscape. Look for the Mitsukoshi “honten,” or original main store, here. With its grand architecture, it’s well worth stepping inside for a look. For more details, be sure to check the linked article below.

Over the weekend, Ueno Park was packed with hanami crowds enjoying food, drinks, and photos, while birds like brown-eared bulbuls and sparrows fluttered overhead, pecking at falling sakura petals.

Around Tokyo, cherry blossoms are beginning to pass peak. In some spots like Ueno, blooms are already at their height, while others should reach full bloom later this week. With temperatures near 20°C early in the week and rain forecast from Tuesday to Thursday, now is the best time to visit before petals begin to fall.

Meanwhile in Nakameguro, the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River have reached full bloom. For safety, one-way pedestrian flow is being encouraged as crowds increase. Food and drink vendors line the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere. While seating spots near the station are limited, the area offers plenty of restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the view.

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