Cherish the Spring, Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom! The Best Time for Hanami in Tokyo

📍 Tokyo · 👁 4 reads · ❤️ 52 likes

In Japanese culture, the true feelings of 'mono no aware' (the pathos of things) can probably be expressed through cherry blossoms. So every year at the end of March, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) becomes a popular activity!

The 2023 cherry blossom season in Japan arrived earlier than usual! According to the 'Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast Map' released by Japan Weather Association, Tokyo reached full bloom on March 24! This caught me a bit off guard for my 'cherry blossom chasing' trip, but fortunately, I made it in time!

1. Arai Yakushi Station Front

Drawn by a beautiful photo of a train passing through cherry blossom trees, I went there out of admiration. I thought it was a lesser-known cherry blossom spot, but I found the pedestrian bridge packed with people holding 'long guns and short cannons' (cameras with telephoto lenses), all there to take photos.

Like many streets in Tokyo, Nakano-dori has over 300 cherry blossom trees planted on both sides as roadside trees. The local community also holds events such as歌舞伎 (kabuki) and taiko drum performances during the cherry blossom festival.

The best photo spot here is at the intersection where Nakano-dori crosses the railway tracks. Electric trains pass through from time to time. When the [Seibu Shinjuku Line] local train passes by, you can capture a photo of the cherry blossoms and the yellow train together.

During the full bloom period, many places like to hang lanterns on cherry blossom trees. The cherry trees on Nakano-dori also have peach-colored lanterns with the words 'Sakura Matsuri' (Cherry Blossom Festival) written on them, creating a festive atmosphere. Although the cherry blossoms had already started to fall when I visited, the scene was still beautiful and moving.

Walking along the street, you come to the park of Arai Yakushi (Baisho-in). This temple, built in 1586, is said to be efficacious in treating eye diseases.

Every spring, it is covered with fallen petals and a hundred flowers in bloom. It is not as busy as the railway crossing not far away, but it is a temple full of Zen spirit.

Address: 5-3-5 Arai, Nakano-ku, Tokyo

Access: 5-minute walk from [Arai Yakushi-mae] Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line

2. Omokagebashi

Riding the 'Toden Arakawa Line' to see cherry blossoms is nostalgic. As the only remaining streetcar in Tokyo, it covers 12.2 km, and the scenery along the way is no less impressive.

Omokagebashi is one of the most stunning stops. The Japanese word 'omokage' can be translated as 'appearance in memory' or 'recollection,' so the name Omokagebashi has a very artistic and literary feel.

Besides standing on Omokagebashi Bridge to admire the cherry blossoms, you can also stroll along the Kanda River, which is lined with cherry trees on both banks.

Both sides of the Kanda River are planted with cherry blossom trees. When they bloom, the branches heavy with blossoms bend toward the river, as if the petals are touching the water—dreamlike and ethereal...

This approximately 3-kilometer-long cherry blossom corridor is truly dreamlike. The dense cherry trees intertwine, and their branches extend to the river surface, creating a dynamic scene of cherry blossoms blooming beautifully over the water.

Address: 3-chome, Nishi-Waseda, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Access: 1-minute walk from [Omokagebashi] Station on the Toei Arakawa Line

3. Chidorigafuchi

If you ask locals in Tokyo where the best place to see cherry blossoms is, most will answer in unison: 'Chidorigafuchi!'

Chidorigafuchi is one of the moats of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. It is named for its shape, which resembles a thousand birds taking flight, and is famous throughout Japan for its 400-meter-long cherry blossom path along the moat.

An 800-meter-long garden path along the river is lined with cherry trees. Around 800 Somei Yoshino and mountain cherry trees bloom on both sides of the path. Especially at the end of the cherry blossom season, when the wind blows, the scene of cherry blossom snow (sakura fubuki) turns the lake and small boats into a pink and white expanse, incredibly romantic.

Rowing on the river, with countless boats and falling blossoms, together create the most elegant, magnificent, and intoxicating scene on the surface of Chidorigafuchi. Being here is like a moving landscape painting, akin to a poetic verse: 'Rowing on green waves, one travels within a painting.'

At 18:00, the lights come on, allowing you to enjoy both the sunset glow and the night cherry blossoms. After dark, the countless high-rise buildings in the Marunouchi area and the cherry blossoms illuminated by lights complement each other, making the night view even more enchanting.

Address: 1-1 Kitanomaru Park, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Access: 10-minute walk from [Kudanshita] Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line

During a trip to Japan, a 'shopping spree' at drugstores is a must! In the major commercial areas of Tokyo, there are drugstores of various brands. The most popular is [Matsumoto Kiyoshi]. Not only are the prices affordable, but the products are also very effective.

Matsumoto Kiyoshi, as Japan's largest drugstore chain, has over 600 stores nationwide. For example, in Shinjuku, you can find 2-3 stores just by walking a little. But a reminder: prices vary from store to store; two stores on the same street might have different prices, so take your time browsing.

So, what should you buy at Matsumoto Kiyoshi? I compiled a list after looking at many guides. Let's take a look:

1. Liese Foam Hair Color

A whole wall full! Very eye-catching! There are 22 regular colors and 3 limited edition colors to choose from. If you're not sure which hair color suits you, you can scan the QR code of the hair color simulator to see the effect. The webpage has a Chinese translation, so it's easy to understand!

Most importantly, there are so many color choices. Every time I come, I can get a new hair color—so happy! I've been using this Liese Foam Hair Color for many years.

I happened to come across a new color: Retro Brown. I fell in love at first sight. As soon as I got back to my friend's place, I did an allergy test. After waiting 48 hours with no allergic reaction, I could dye my hair with the new color. Looking forward to it!

When using it, it’s like washing your hair. First, mix Liquid 1 and Liquid 2, shake about five times, then attach the pump nozzle to dispense the foam. Massage the foam into your hair, leave it on for about 20 minutes, then rinse as usual, and finally apply the included conditioner and rinse. That's it.

After dyeing, the indoor photo shows perfectly even color, exactly the shade I imagined—very gentle and Japanese-style! I love it!

2. Pluseau Hair Flyaway Stick

At first glance, it looks like a mascara wand, but it's actually for taming flyaways and baby hairs. It's great for those with new hair growth after hair loss, making those unruly little hairs behave, so you don't have to worry about them flying around when taking beautiful photos.

3. KISS ME Mascara

Available in volumizing and lengthening types. Suits most people—black gives a deep look, brown adds a chic touch. Choose according to your style. Waterproof, sweat-proof, and smudge-proof. It can be removed by applying a cotton pad soaked in makeup remover for a while; it's gentle and won't harm your lashes.

4. DUP False Eyelash Glue

High adhesion, super invisible, no glue residue, and doesn't irritate the eyes. It takes about 30 seconds to dry slightly, no need to reapply repeatedly—very sturdy.

5. KAO Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Not only strong cleaning power but also excellent deodorizing. Spray a little every day, and the whole bathroom is filled with a delicate rose scent.

These are my must-buys! If you have enough space in your suitcase, you can also explore the snack section and daily necessities section—it's a great place to shop!

Tips: Prices vary among different Matsumoto Kiyoshi stores. It's recommended to do your browsing and then buy everything at one store! Chinese passport holders can still get tax-free for purchases over 5,000 yen. There are also other discounts for reaching certain amounts.

1. Canal Cafe

Kagurazaka is a place where famous Japanese writers and artists gather. Strolling through the labyrinthine alleys, you can always find small, exquisite cafes, Japanese tea houses, and various shops that blend old and new.

The sunlight wasn't strong today, and my newly dyed hair looked beautiful even on a cloudy day! And after using the included hair mask, my hair became super smooth, much better than before. I absolutely love it~~~

Let me show you a color comparison—isn't it very Japanese-style?

When visiting Kagurazaka, you can't miss Canal Cafe by the canal. It's an authentic Italian restaurant. Since it was featured in a drama starring Satomi Ishihara, it has become very popular among young people.

From the end of March to early April, the cherry blossoms planted along the moat turn the water's edge pink. The garden-style environment and beautiful scenery make it one of the top choices for a romantic date.

The riverside is full of cherry blossoms. Couples can sit here, enjoy the scenery of the moat, and have a meal or barbecue on the outdoor deck.

Address: 1-6-chome, Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Access: 5-minute walk from Iidabashi Station (JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line, Tozai Line, Yurakucho Line, Namboku Line, Oedo Line)

2. Isomaru Suisan

In Japanese dramas, you often see office workers treating themselves to a glass of draft beer at an izakaya after work, paired with various delicious appetizers... Isomaru Suisan is a 24-hour, affordable seafood izakaya.

Each table has a shichirin (charcoal) grill, filling the air with aroma. Besides grilled items, there are affordable seafood bowl options for lunch. It's a must-visit for seafood lovers and has received high praise from Japanese netizens.

If you like sashimi, don't miss the [Six Types of Sashimi Platter]. The generous portions of fresh sashimi are incredibly satisfying.

Grilling is the highlight. If you don't want to think about what to order, I recommend directly choosing the [Grill Set]. It includes a whole squid, two clams, two shrimp, and two scallops. Grilling and eating while enjoying a drink is pure bliss!

Travel Journal Directory

1. Cherry Blossom Spots: Tokyo Hanami Map

2. Shopping Guide: Matsumoto Kiyoshi Must-Buy List

3. Unique Shops: Accompanied by Delicious Food

Travel Information

Hotel Index

Guide Index

Flight Index

Website Navigation

Travel Index

Cruise Index

Corporate Travel Index