Tokyo in spring: cherry blossoms, and how to actually see them
Tokyo in spring, late March to May.
Spring is the postcard Tokyo: cherry blossoms over the rivers and parks, warm afternoons around 18 degrees, and the whole city outside eating and drinking under the trees. It is also the busiest and priciest season, so the trick is timing and knowing the quieter spots.
What to do in Tokyo in spring
The blossoms peak for barely a week, usually late March into early April. For hanami (flower viewing), the canal at Nakameguro and the parks around Ueno and Harajuku (Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu) are the classics. Go early morning to beat the crowds. Beyond the blossoms, spring is perfect walking weather for every neighbourhood.
Tokyo in spring: frequently asked questions
When are the cherry blossoms in Tokyo?
Full bloom usually lands in very late March to the first week of April, but it shifts each year and lasts only about a week. If sakura is the whole point of your trip, aim for the last days of March and keep your park days flexible.
Where are the best cherry blossoms in Tokyo?
The Meguro river in Nakameguro, Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi by the Imperial Palace, Shinjuku Gyoen and Yoyogi Park near Harajuku are the famous ones. They all get very busy at peak, so go early morning or on a weekday.
Is spring the best time to visit Tokyo?
For looks, yes, it is hard to beat, but it is also peak crowds and prices. If you want the beauty with fewer people, autumn gives crisp weather and fall colour with a bit more room to breathe.