There’s truly nowhere else in the world like Tokyo, Japan. The vibrant city is such a unique blend of traditional and modern, where many weird and wonderful counter-cultures collide. Not only that, but it’s incredibly safe (perfect for solo female travellers), the people are wonderful and the food is next level. Oh, and the shopping isn’t half bad, either! While Tokyo is an amazing place to visit all year round, it doesn’t get more spectacular than spring—or more specifically, cherry blossom season. Witnessing the sakura in full bloom is truly a once in a lifetime experience and Tokyo is truly one of the best places to do it. If you’re lucky enough to get there next year, these are some of the best spots in the city for Hanami (the Japanese tradition of flower viewing):
Chidorigafuchi
Could there be anything more relaxing than floating down a historic moat, surrounded by cherry blossoms? We think not. Not only can you go paddle boating in this park (located northwest of the Imperial Palace), the trees are lit up in the evening—making it the perfect place to check out the sakura by both day and night.
Learn more about Chidorigafuchi.
Shinjuku Gyoen
This is one of Tokyo’s most popular spots to view the cherry blossoms. But don’t worry—being one of its largest parks, there’s plenty of space to marvel at their beauty (and take ten billion photos, obviously!).
Learn more about Shinjuku Gyoen.
Rikugien Garden
Tourists and locals alike flock to the Rikugien garden in cherry blossom season for one reason only—the majestic shidare zakura (or weeping cherry tree). Standing at 15 metres high and 20 metres wide, it’s pretty impressive by day—but is even more spectacular when illuminated at night.
Learn more about Rikugien garden.
Ueno Park
Ueno park is home to more than 1000 cherry blossom trees, that tend to bloom 1-3 days before other spots in the city. Be warned, it does get extremely busy during their cherry blossom festival—but the tranquillity of the sakura is well worth the hustle and bustle.
Learn more about Ueno Park.
The city
While Tokyo’s parks are stunning, there’s something so special about seeing the cherry blossoms contrasted against the neon lights of the city. Some of the best spots to go for an urban sakura experience are Roppongi Hills or the lifestyle complex, Tokyo Midtown.
Learn more about Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown.
Meguro River
For pics that are going to absolutely blow up your ‘gram, you can’t go past the Meguro River. The view of the gorgeous pink flowers reflecting against the water is just mesmerising—especially at night, when lanterns illuminate the river banks.
Learn more about Meguro River.
