Are you spending three days in Tokyo between March and May and eager to explore cherry blossoms? Let’s explore the best way for you to visit Tokyo’s major tourist attractions, along with its beautiful cherry blossom spots! Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, offers a mesmerizing blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels. With this three-day Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to experience iconic landmarks such as the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, the vibrant streets of Shibuya, and the tranquil gardens of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, all adorned with the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms. Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Tokyo draped in shades of pink!
Tokyo Itinerary Featuring Sakura: Day 1
🌸 9:30 Skytree
At 634 metres high, the Tokyo Sky Tree® stands as the new landmark of Tokyo tourism. With the Tokyo Solamachi shopping centre, planetarium, and aquarium spread out at its foot, it offers a sightseeing experience where you can easily spend an entire day without ever feeling bored.
The interior of the Sky Tree’s elevators is a particular point of interest. There are four different types, each representing a different season—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—with the ‘summer’ lift adorned with Edo motifs depicting fireworks over the Sumida River. Visitors can delight in the anticipation of discovering which season the lift they are guided to represents. Experience this iconic Tokyo attraction with our Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 Walk to Asakusa
For the next leg of your journey, take a leisurely stroll to Asakusa along the riverbank, where you’ll be enchanted by a scenic path lined with blooming sakura trees. This picturesque route offers a delightful opportunity to immerse yourself in the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the riverside. As you walk, you’ll pass by charming bridges, traditional wooden boats, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of locals and tourists alike, relishing in the enchanting spectacle of nature’s own pink canopy. Experience the magic of sakura as you venture towards the historic district of Asakusa, adding a touch of serenity to your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 12:00 Asakusa
Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, is an essential destination for sightseeing in the city. Highly popular among foreign tourists, the temple attracts crowds eager to capture photographs in front of the imposing paper lanterns adorning the Kaminarimon gate.
Nakamise Street, extending from Kaminarimon, is adorned with venerable souvenir shops, Japanese confectionery stores, and delightful sweet shops, ideal for indulging in treats while exploring. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample Asakusa’s specialty, ningyoyaki (doll-shaped pancakes), and compare flavours from various vendors. Experience the allure of Asakusa as part of your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 14:00 Sumida River
A renowned destination for cherry blossom viewing, recognised as one of the top 100 cherry blossom spots, Sumida Park boasts a rich history dating back to the Edo period. Legend has it that the first cherry trees were planted under the decree of the fourth shogun, Tokugawa Ietsuna. In 1717, the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, added to the splendour by planting an additional 100 cherry trees, resulting in an impressive total of approximately 300 trees on the Sumida-ku side and 600 on the opposite bank in Taito-ku.
Situated near the station, the park spans both banks of the Sumida River for approximately 1 kilometre, offering visitors a delightful juxtaposition with the Tokyo Sky Tree®. For a unique perspective, consider a tranquil houseboat ride along the Sumida River, providing a picturesque view of the cherry trees adorning both banks. Experience the charm of Sumida Park as part of your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 15:30 Ueno
Ameyokocho stretches from JR Okachimachi Station to just before Ueno Station, encompassing a lively shopping street that winds through a maze of around 400 shops along the viaduct and under its watchful guard. Here, you’ll discover an array of goods, from fresh fish and groceries to clothing and miscellaneous items, all at remarkably affordable prices. Don’t miss out on the diverse selection of gourmet delights while exploring Tokyo’s vibrant streets.
In Ueno, the Tokyo National Museum stands as a beloved attraction! As Japan’s largest museum, with an admission fee of only ¥1,000, it offers exceptional value for money. Delve into exhibits showcasing Ukiyo-e, buddhist sculpture, calligraphy, Ainu folklore, samurai artefacts, and much more. Within the museum grounds, you’ll also find a charming tea house and a serene garden, where you can admire the beauty of cherry blossoms in bloom.
Ueno Toshogu, another highlight in the Ueno area, is adorned with enchanting cherry blossom trees. Although constructed in 1627, it still gleams resplendently in bright gold! While you’re there, consider exploring the peony garden, accessible for a fee of ¥700, where you can marvel at the exquisite blooms. It promises to be a tranquil and memorable experience amidst Tokyo’s vibrant atmosphere. Discover these captivating attractions as part of your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 Ueno Park
Ueno Park stands as one of Tokyo’s most renowned cherry blossom viewing spots. The serene Shinobazu Pond offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature’s embrace. During the summer months, the pond becomes a haven for various waterfowl, including ducks, while clusters of lotus flowers grace its surface.
Since the Edo period (1603-1868), the Ueno mountains have been celebrated for their cherry blossoms, providing an opportunity to revel in nature’s beauty throughout the year. Legend has it that priest Tenkai transplanted cherry trees from Mount Yoshino, adorning the park with approximately 800 cherry trees, particularly along Sakura-dori.
Within the park, visitors can also explore the Ueno Zoo, where cherry blossoms bloom throughout the premises. Home to remarkable attractions such as giant pandas and colossal turtles, the zoo promises an unforgettable experience. It’s a must-visit destination as part of your Tokyo itinerary featuring Sakura.
🌸 18:00 Meguro
In Meguro, you’ll discover numerous shrines and temples, including the Ryusenji Temple, from which the area derives its name. This temple holds a special significance and is a must-visit on any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura. Surrounded by picturesque scenery, the temple’s tranquil setting within a park ensures an uninterrupted connection with nature.
Flowing through Setagaya, Meguro, and Shinagawa wards into Tokyo Bay, the Meguro River offers a serene backdrop to the city’s landscape. Along the Meguro Ward stretch, Someiyoshino cherry trees adorn the riverbanks for approximately 4 kilometres, extending from near Ikejiri-Ohashi Station. Upstream from Nakameguro Station, cherry blossoms form a beautiful arch over the riverbanks.
The Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival and the Meguro East Area Cherry Blossom Festival are annual events celebrated along the Meguro River. During the blooming period, the riverside is illuminated with lights and bonbori lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. For specific dates and details, please visit the official website.
Tokyo Itinerary Featuring Sakura: Day ２
🌸 9:00 Shibuya
Shibuya is renowned for its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, making a stroll through the Shibuya Scramble Crossing a must-do activity on any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura. Despite its perpetual hustle and bustle, even on weekdays, crossing this iconic intersection is an experience not to be missed! While in the vicinity, be sure to ascend to Shibuya Sky for an unparalleled view of the crossing from above.
Exiting the station, you’ll encounter a poignant memorial that holds special significance for movie enthusiasts: the Hachi-ko memorial. This touching tribute to the loyal dog that awaited his owner’s return draws crowds quickly, so it’s advisable to visit earlier in the day.
Shibuya boasts an array of charming stores and enticing attractions. To truly immerse yourself in the cherry blossom season, I recommend indulging in a Sakura Frappuccino, available at Starbucks. Sip on this delightful concoction while enjoying a scenic view of the Scramble Crossing. Made with real cherry blossom jelly, it adds a delightful touch to this sweet treat! And don’t forget to complement your beverage with Sakura Macarons for a refreshing finish.
🌸 11:00 Yoyogi Park
The fifth-largest urban park within Tokyo’s 23 wards, it is divided into a forest park area spanning across the road and a plaza area featuring an athletics track, outdoor stage, and other amenities. Teaming up with the trees of the adjacent Meiji Shrine, it forms a dense green forest, while the waterscape facilities boasting three large and three small fountains, along with a water corridor, cultivate a pleasant atmosphere.
Home to approximately 600 cherry trees, including Someiyoshino, Oshima, and mountain cherry varieties, the park typically showcases its most vibrant colours from late March onwards. During the peak cherry blossom season, the Cherry Blossom Garden and the Central Square become adorned with bright hues, offering a delightful spectacle for visitors. Experience the enchantment of this park as part of your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 12:30 Harajuku
Harajuku is renowned as a vibrant shopping district, offering an array of stylish fashion choices, making it an essential stop on any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
Additionally, Harajuku is famed for its numerous animal cafes. While traditional ones featuring cats and dogs are commonplace, Harajuku also boasts cafes with unique offerings you won’t find elsewhere. I particularly recommend the Hedgehog Cafe for its adorable charm. Here, you can hold these delightful creatures, watch them doze off in your hands, or even feed them and enjoy the sound of their tiny crunch.
Harajuku is also a haven for indulgent snacks! Treat yourself to cotton candy crafted in the shape of bunnies or dogs, or savour some crepes filled with fresh strawberries, guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds.
🌸 15:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
The garden is a masterful blend of formal design, featuring beautiful rows of plane trees, a picturesque landscape dotted with extensive lawns and lilies, and a traditional Japanese garden. It is considered a prime example of a modern Western garden from the Meiji era, making it a notable addition to any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
With approximately 10,000 trees, including lilies, plane trees, Himalayan cedars, and rakusyo, the garden boasts a unique landscape. Its springtime allure is further enhanced by around 900 cherry trees of about 70 species, drawing visitors from far and wide. W
The early flowering cherry trees typically begin blooming in January, while the Someiyoshino cherry trees are at their peak beauty from late March onwards.
🌸 17:00 Shinjuku
Shinjuku is an ideal destination to explore everything Tokyo has to offer within a short timeframe, making it an essential stop on any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura. From vibrant bars to dazzling neon lights, from diverse restaurants to extensive shopping options, Shinjuku truly has it all! Moreover, art enthusiasts will delight in visiting the Nishi Shinjuku neighbourhood, where they can admire impressive sculptures.
For movie buffs, a visit to the Toho Cinema building is a must. Here, you can behold the giant Godzilla head adorning the rooftop. Simply ascend to the top and immerse yourself in the experience, feeling as if you’ve stepped into the heart of the movie itself!
Tokyo Itinerary Featuring Sakura: Day 3
🌸 9:00 Imperial Palace
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is undoubtedly a must-visit destination, making it an essential stop on any Tokyo itinerary featuring Sakura. Free guided tours around the palace enhance your experience, providing valuable insights. Additionally, exploring the palace gardens offers a serene retreat, capable of soothing even the most stressed individual.
🌸 10:30 Chidorigafuchi
Chidorigafuchi is among the top spots to include in your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura, conveniently situated just a five-minute walk from Kudanshita Station and Hanzomon Station. A 700-metre promenade extends from Yasukuni Dori to Kitanomaru Park, adorned with approximately 260 cherry trees, including Someiyoshino.
These cherry trees typically bloom in late March and early April each year, creating a picturesque scene that attracts numerous visitors. The captivating reflection of the cherry blossoms on the water adds to the beauty of the surroundings, drawing in not only tourists but also locals, including businesspeople winding down after work and couples indulging in cherry blossom viewing.
🌸 12:00 Yasaka Shrine
The Shokonsha was originally founded in 1869 at the behest of Emperor Meiji. The shrine honours those who died in defence of the country, from the late samurai of the Tokugawa Shogunate to the soldiers of the last World War.
This shrine has long been recognised as a cherry blossom viewing spot, with a selected cherry tree designated by the Tokyo District Meteorological Observatory within its precincts. During the cherry blossom season from late March to early April, the shrine attracts numerous visitors with events such as ‘Dedo Yozakura Noh’, ‘Dedo Engei’, ‘Dedo Pro Wrestling’, along with various dedicated performances and kitchen car stalls. It’s a delightful addition to any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
🌸 14:00 Zozoji Temple
One of the seven major head temples of the Jodo sect, this historic temple boasts a rich legacy spanning 600 years. Serving as a family temple of the Tokugawa clan, it also serves as the final resting place for six of the Tokugawa shoguns in its cemetery. The expansive grounds are adorned with approximately 200 cherry trees, making it a captivating addition to any Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
While the majority of these trees are Someiyoshino cherry trees, visitors can also delight in several other varieties, including weeping cherry trees and Yutenzakura cherry trees.
🌸 16:30 Roppongi
Not as widely known but equally splendid is the observatory in Roppongi Hills. This vantage point allows you to ascend to the top of the building, providing sweeping views of both the Tokyo Tower and the Skytree simultaneously. Particularly enchanting during the evening hours, when the city lights illuminate the skyline! In Roppongi Hills, you can also enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms, enhancing your Tokyo itinerary featuring sakura.
Cherry blossom trees adorn the streets throughout Roppongi, blooming early in the season, making it a delightful spot to visit. I highly recommend exploring the area on foot and taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Renowned as a nightlife hotspot for foreigners, Roppongi offers a plethora of entertainment options. If you’re seeking to immerse yourself in the nightlife scene, Roppongi is the place to be! Additionally, there are numerous excellent dining establishments, such as the Torikizoku restaurant, which offers affordable drinks and delicious food, making it an ideal dining destination.
Living Your Spring Fantasy in Tokyo
Are you eagerly anticipating your visit to these remarkable locations in Tokyo? I trust you’ll thoroughly relish this meticulously planned 3-day itinerary, accentuated by the mesmerising beauty of cherry blossoms!
While our itinerary offers a delightful glimpse into Tokyo’s diverse attractions, this dynamic city has so much more to offer. There are countless hidden gems and intriguing neighbourhoods waiting to be explored, ensuring that each visit to Tokyo unveils new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
To get the most out of your trip, join one of our guided tours. Try the Tokyo Food & Drinks Bar Tour to explore the city’s nightlife and enjoy local drinks. Or, join the Half-Day Otaku Tour in Akihabara to dive into anime culture . These tours offer unique and memorable experiences.
Planning your trip might seem hard at first, but with some research and preparation, you can make an itinerary that fits your interests. Be adventurous, keep an open mind, and enjoy the kindness and traditions of Japan.
With your bags packed and excitement high, get ready for an amazing journey through Japan. Your first trip to Japan will be unforgettable, full of wonderful memories and experiences. And remember, our Flip Japan Guide tours are here to make your trip even more special. Enjoy your adventure!
Oh, and don’t forget to let us know in the comments which one is your favorite Tokyo spot for cherry blossom viewing!
Hi!
I would like to know more about Matsuyama, I will be there for 1 week study aboard, can you send me information getting around and how to buy tickets for JR tram, subway station. Thank you