Buildings across the Nihonbashi area, including the historic Mitsui Honkan, glow in soft pink lighting inspired by cherry blossoms. This year, the illumination along the famous cherry tree-lined Edo Sakura Dori has been expanded, bathing the street in a beautiful sakura-colored glow.

An evening stroll through Nihonbashi’s historic streets, surrounded by these magical lights, offers a memorable way to experience the arrival of spring.

If you have a sweet tooth, this event is not to be missed. The popular parfait festival Nihonbashi Parfes, which drew around 6,000 visitors last year, returns with an expanded schedule across seven days.

Well-known sweets shops, from longtime favorites like Nihonbashi Sembikiya Sohonten to newer names such as Charles-Henry, will gather to serve beautifully crafted spring-themed parfaits. Pick up a photogenic treat and enjoy it while taking in the fresh spring air.

For a taste of traditional Japan, head to COREDO Muromachi Terrace, where around 70 sakura-pink chochin (paper lanterns) will decorate the space.

These softly glowing lanterns represent the lively spirit and strong community ties of Nihonbashi, a district that has flourished as a commercial hub since the Edo period. Their warm pink light creates a charming atmosphere and a perfect backdrop for memorable travel photos.

Celebrate the arrival of cherry blossom season with a town-wide spring festival. Around 200 shops across the Nihonbashi area will offer limited-time sakura-themed foods and traditional goods.

Look for seasonal treats such as Sakura Canelés and Sakura Dashi Amazake (a sweet, non-alcoholic rice drink), along with beautifully crafted items like a Sakura Fuji sake cup. It’s a great chance to savor the flavors of spring while picking up a memorable souvenir.

New to the festival this year is an interactive Sakura Sticker Rally. As you explore participating shops and event spots throughout Nihonbashi, you can collect charming sakura-patterned stickers.

Collect enough stickers and you can try your luck at a special lottery using a classic Japanese gacha (capsule toy) machine for a chance to win prizes. It’s a fun way to discover more of the area while enjoying the festival atmosphere.