Tucked away in the bustling city of Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen is a true gem for anyone looking to soak up the stunning spectacle of cherry blossoms. This sprawling garden covers 58.3 hectares (133 acres) and wraps around a 3.5-kilometer path. It's home to around 1,100 Japanese cherry trees that come alive with color each spring.

What's cool about this place is the variety of cherry trees they've got. Since each type blooms on its own schedule, you get to enjoy a longer season of blossoms. It's like a constantly changing flower show that makes Shinjuku Gyoen an unforgettable spot for cherry blossom fans.

And it's not just about the flowers. The local shops around the park are filled with yummy snacks and cute souvenirs all themed around cherry blossoms. It's the perfect chance to treat yourself!

Getting to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is super easy, just a short walk from Shinjuku Station, and entry is only 500 yen. They open up at 9 AM and close at 4 PM, but the last entry is at 4:30 PM.

For the cherry blossom season, which usually goes from March 15 to April 24, they even extend their hours from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, with the gates shutting at 6 PM. Just a heads up, they're pretty strict about not allowing alcohol or BBQ stuff in the park.

2025 Cherry blossom viewing schedule:
- Kan-zakura: Catch them from mid to late March
- Higan-zakura: Also from mid to late March
- Somei-yoshino: From the end of March to the start of April

Ueno Park, another hot spot in Tokyo for those mad about cherry blossoms, blooms just a bit earlier than the rest. This place has been a favorite since the 16th century, thanks to its beautiful sakura scenery.

Spread over 53 hectares (131 acres), the park boasts around 800 cherry trees. The trees mainly show off along the central path, and you'll often see folks laying down blue tarps and taping off their spot early—it's that popular.

The park gets pretty lively, so if you're looking to hang out with a bunch of pals, getting there early is key. But if it's just you or you're planning a quiet meet-up, the evening vibe under the lantern-lit trees is unbeatable. Picture this: cherry blossoms overhead, a cool drink in hand, all picked up from a convenience store just around the corner.

Getting to Ueno Park is super easy, just a hop from Ueno Station, and guess what? Getting in is totally free!

Cherry blossom times for 2025:
- Kan-zakura: From February to March
- Somei-yoshino: End of March to the start of April
- Komatsu-otome: Also late March to early April
- Kanzan: Around mid to the end of April
- Fugenzo: Around mid to the end of April

Right by the Imperial Palace's northwest, Chidorigafuchi is a must-visit for cherry blossom lovers in Tokyo. It's famously picturesque, offering some of the best views of sakura in the city.

Imagine being surrounded by about 1,000 cherry trees, their blooms creating the perfect contrast with the ancient stone walls of what used to be Edo Castle, now the majestic Imperial Palace. For a bit more fun, why not rent a boat and glide along the moat? It’s a unique way to get up close with the blossoms and snap those perfect shots.

There's also this magical 700-meter path known as the "sakura tunnel," where walking feels like moving through a dream, especially at night when the blossoms are lit up, casting a spellbinding glow.

Don't forget to wander through Chidorigafuchi Park, nestled between the moat and the British Embassy, home to around 170 cherry trees. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, fully soaking in the calm beauty.

Getting there is easy peasy, just a short walk from Kudanshita Station, and the cherry on top? It’s free to visit this cherry blossom wonderland!

Cherry blossom times for 2025:
- Somei-yoshino: From the end of March to the beginning of April

Sumida Park, famous for its stunning summer fireworks, turns into a cherry blossom paradise in spring. It's the perfect spot for picnic lovers to gather under the blooming sakura trees, but be ready for it to get pretty packed, especially as the day turns into night!

Capture stunning photographs showcasing the beauty of not only the 600+ Japanese cherry trees but also the majestic Tokyo Skytree towering gracefully in the background. For an unforgettable experience, consider embarking on a cherry blossom viewing adventure aboard a yakatabune boat, where cherished memories are certain to be created.

Getting to Sumida Park is a breeze, just a stone's throw away from Asakusa Station. And the best part? There’s no entry fee to enjoy this beautiful slice of nature.

2025 Cherry blossom viewing period:
- Somei-yoshino: Late March to early April

Located in the quaint western suburb of Kichijoji, Inokashira Park is a serene escape that's absolutely enchanting. Here, around 500 Japanese cherry trees create a stunning canopy over a peaceful, large pond. When the cherry blossoms gently fall, they mimic a "sakura snow," covering the pond's surface with a captivating pink hue. This scene is reminiscent of the beauty found at Shinobazu Pond in Ueno, and you can elevate your visit by renting a swan-shaped boat to paddle around the pond, surrounded by the breathtaking cherry blossoms.

The view from Nanai Bridge, at the pond's center, is especially breathtaking. About 200 cherry trees stretch their branches out over the water, their reflections in the pond weaving a spectacular visual harmony that's unmatched.

Getting to Inokashira Park is easy, with Kichijoji Station just nearby. You can enjoy this natural sanctuary for free, offering a tranquil experience anytime you wish.

Cherry blossom viewing times for 2025:
- Kawazu-zakura, Yae-zakura: From late February to mid-March
- Somei-yoshino: From late March to early April

Meguro River stands out as a top destination in Tokyo for cherry blossom admirers. Its 3.8-kilometer path, stretching from Ikejiri-Ohashi to Kamenokobashi under the Tokyu Meguro Line, is lined with about 800 cherry trees that spectacularly bloom each spring. This spot draws in crowds by the thousands, offering a romantic setting that's enhanced by the beautiful evening lights.

Although picnic spots are a bit scarce, you won't miss out on enjoying the festive atmosphere. The area is dotted with food stalls serving everything from sakura-colored sparkling wine to tasty gourmet snacks. For a more relaxed experience, the riverside restaurants provide a cozy setting to enjoy delicious meals while taking in the views and the vibrant energy of the visitors.

Getting to Meguro River is easy, thanks to its location near Nakameguro Station, and visiting this stunning bloom display won't cost you anything.

Cherry blossom viewing times for 2025:
- Somei-yoshino: From late March to early April
- Yae-zakura: Starting in early April

Yoyogi Park, Tokyo's third-largest park, might not be the first place that comes to mind for couples looking for cherry blossom spots, even with its impressive count of around 730 cherry trees. But, it's a gem for larger groups or anyone craving a bit more space to lounge under the sakura. It's the perfect spot to unwind with a tasty bento and a cold beer or two, all while soaking in the calm and less crowded surroundings.

You'll find getting to Yoyogi Park a breeze, thanks to its location near Harajuku/Meijijingumae Station. Plus, with no entrance fee, it's a welcoming spot to experience the peaceful beauty of cherry blossoms at your own pace.

Cherry blossom viewing season for 2025:
- Somei-yoshino: From mid to late March

Since its establishment in 1629, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens has remained one of Tokyo's oldest and most cherished parks, serving as a testament to the city's rich historical heritage. The garden is a stunning example of the seamless blend between Chinese and Japanese landscape designs, featuring a variety of cherry tree species that add to its beauty.

A visit to the garden is not complete without witnessing the breathtaking view of cherry blossoms reflecting off the Daisensui pond—a sight that captures the essence of spring in Japan. Although picnicking isn't allowed, the garden's quaint tea house offers a lovely respite, where you can enjoy a cup of matcha and traditional Japanese sweets against a backdrop of blooming cherry blossoms.

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens invites you to step into a world where the splendor of nature meets historical elegance, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city of Tokyo.

Cherry blossom viewing season for 2025:
- Somei-yoshino: Expected from late March to early April

Built over seven years around 1700 for the 5th Tokugawa Shogun, Rikugien Gardens is a masterpiece of design, reflecting immense dedication to detail. The garden's name, which translates to "Garden of the Six Elements of Poetry," hints at its deep roots in Japanese poetry, with landscapes meticulously crafted to echo scenes from celebrated poems.

A highlight of the garden is the weeping Japanese cherry blossom tree, a beloved emblem of Rikugien. This tree stands about 15 meters tall and spreads 20 meters wide, blossoming into a stunning display reminiscent of a waterfall. The tree under the evening lights is a sight to behold, its beauty magnified, presenting a breathtaking view.

For a small fee of 300 yen, you can enter this serene haven. The garden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, extending its hours to 9 PM during the cherry blossom season for a special illumination event. Visitors are welcome up until 30 minutes before closing. From March 16 to April 2, the shibazakura tree and the historical daimyo garden light up, transforming the place into a magical landscape. The gardens stay open daily through the cherry blossom season, offering everyone a chance to enjoy the stunning floral displays.

Cherry blossom viewing times for 2025:
- Shidarezakura (weeping cherry): Mid to late March
- Somei-yoshino: From late March to early April

Asukayama Park, with its peaceful surroundings, is home to about 600 cherry trees, making it a favorite local spot and a treasure not often highlighted in guidebooks. This park has a long history of capturing the hearts of those in Tokyo, offering stunning views of cherry blossoms that enchant all who visit.

One of the park's unique features is the Asuka Park Rail monorail, which provides a journey through the garden from 10 AM to 4 PM. Viewing the cherry blossoms from this vantage point is a rare treat, enhancing the charm of Asukayama Park and offering a memorable experience.

Located just a stone's throw from Oji Station, getting to this serene spot is straightforward. Plus, with no entrance fee, Asukayama Park warmly welcomes everyone to discover its quiet beauty and indulge in the captivating spectacle of cherry blossoms.

Cherry blossom viewing times for 2025:
- Somei-yoshino: From late March to early April
- Yaebenishidarezakura: From early to mid-April
- Yamazakura: From early to mid-April

Right in the bustling heart of Tokyo, Roppongi Hills stands out as a lively hub filled with fashionable shops, tempting eateries, and cozy cafes. Amidst this vibrant setting, you'll find two spots perfect for cherry blossom viewing.

Mori Garden, a peaceful Japanese garden tucked away within the Roppongi Hills area, presents a tranquil retreat. Here, alongside a babbling stream, eight cherry trees bloom, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of skyscrapers. This unique mix of urban architecture and natural splendor provides a cherry blossom viewing experience unlike any other in Tokyo, making it a must-see.

Although the Roppongi Hills Spring Festival, traditionally held in early April, brought additional charm with its assortment of events like tea ceremonies and cultural workshops, the allure of cherry blossoms in this modern setting remains a standout feature.

The second must-visit cherry blossom site in Roppongi Hills is Roppongi Sakurazaka. This area becomes especially vibrant with the bloom of around 150 cherry trees, including the popular Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry trees. The night-time lighting transforms the area, highlighting the blossoms and adding a luminous, lively ambiance to the cityscape.

As you journey from the foot to the peak of Mt. Takao, you're greeted by nature's own sakura display, lining the trail and providing a stunning backdrop for hikers. This route offers a splendid chance to enjoy cherry blossoms alongside a scenic trek. Typically, the best time to catch this floral show is in mid-April, a bit later than the peak season in central Tokyo. The blooming sequence changes with elevation, presenting a fascinating progression of blossoms that captivate all who traverse this path.

Across Mt. Takao, various cherry blossom spots invite you to stop and soak in their magic. Among the most famous is Yakuoin Temple, which is beautifully framed by elegant weeping cherry blossoms. As you make your way to the summit, anticipate a spectacular sight: a sweeping view of lush mountains dotted with cherry blossoms, and on clear days, the iconic Mount Fuji majestically rising in the distance.

Tokyo's cherry blossom season is an extraordinary time when the city comes alive with the delicate beauty of sakura.

From the iconic parks like Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park to hidden gems like Chidorigafuchi and Inokashira Park, each location offers its own enchanting experience.

As you wander through these blossoming landscapes, you'll be captivated by the serene atmosphere, the delicate petals floating on gentle breezes, and the vibrant colors that paint the city in shades of pale pink.

Whether you're strolling along the Meguro River, admiring cherry trees reflected on calm ponds, or exploring historic gardens like Rikugien and Koishikawa Korakuen, Tokyo's cherry blossoms offer a true feast for the senses.

So, plan your visit, embrace the joy of hanami, and create unforgettable memories in the midst of this fleeting yet magnificent natural spectacle. Tokyo's cherry blossoms are waiting to enchant you and showcase the ephemeral beauty that has captured hearts for centuries.