Spring in Tokyo feels magical. As the cold winter fades away, we put away our heavy coats and enjoy the warm sunshine, soaking up some much-needed vitamin D. The city comes to life, waking up from its winter sleep. Everywhere, colorful flowers bloom, marking the arrival of cherry blossom season and many fun spring activities.
In Tokyo, spring is more than just a season—it’s a celebration of all things pink. Cherry blossoms cover parks and gardens, restaurants offer pink-themed foods, and people’s cheeks turn rosy as they enjoy the beautiful weather.
But Tokyo’s spring is not just about the scenery. It is also filled with cultural events like hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and exciting outdoor adventures. As the city bursts into bloom, why not join the fun and experience springtime in Tokyo for yourself?
Hanami
Hanami, which means “flower viewing,” is one of Japan’s most popular traditions. This event is about appreciating the short-lived beauty of cherry blossoms, which only bloom for a short time every year.
During hanami season, families and friends gather under cherry trees in parks and scenic spots to enjoy picnics, laughter, and the breathtaking flowers. While famous places like Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen attract large crowds, there are also hidden spots to discover.
Tokyo’s cherry blossoms usually bloom from mid to late March, while cities like Kyoto and Osaka may reach peak bloom between late March and early April.
Best Places for Hanami in Tokyo
Yoyogi Park
Located near Shibuya and Harajuku, Yoyogi Park has around 700 cherry blossom trees that form a stunning pink canopy, making it a perfect hanami spot.
Since it’s a popular location, the park gets very crowded, especially during peak bloom. Many visitors arrive as early as 5 AM to reserve a good spot, and cell phone signals can become weak due to the large number of people.
Despite the crowds, Yoyogi Park’s cherry blossom season is a must-see. It’s a great place to enjoy drinks, snacks, and conversations under the trees. For a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday is recommended.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is another favorite hanami spot, home to around 1,000 cherry blossom trees. Besides its beautiful flowers, the park has museums, temples, and even a zoo, making it an ideal place for a full day of fun.
Right next to the park is Ameya-yokocho, a lively shopping street where visitors can try local snacks and buy souvenirs. With its mix of nature, culture, and lively energy, Ueno Park is a top destination for experiencing Tokyo’s spring.
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen, located in the heart of the city, is a peaceful retreat with around 1,000 cherry blossom trees of different types. It offers stunning photo opportunities, especially with Tokyo’s skyline in the background.
Unlike other hanami spots, alcohol is not allowed in Shinjuku Gyoen, and there is a small entrance fee of about $5 to help maintain the park. Despite these rules, it remains one of the best places to enjoy cherry blossoms in a calm and quiet environment.
Shioiri Park
If you want to enjoy cherry blossoms without the big crowds in Tokyo, Shioiri Park is a great choice. This hidden spot is located next to the calm Sumida River, offering a quiet place to admire the beautiful cherry blossoms, away from the busy city. With the famous Tokyo Sky Tree standing in the background, it makes for a perfect setting for your spring adventures.
Unlike the more well-known cherry blossom spots in Tokyo, Shioiri Park does not get too crowded. This means you can fully enjoy the beauty of the blooming trees without feeling rushed. Bring your favorite snacks and drinks and have a relaxing picnic under the flowers.
While Shioiri Park is more famous for its summer fireworks, during cherry blossom season, it becomes a peaceful oasis. If you are looking for a quiet and beautiful hanami (cherry blossom viewing) experience, this is the perfect place.
Showa Kinen Park
Located west of central Tokyo, Showa Kinen Park is a wonderful place for flower lovers. It is open all year round, but in spring, from mid-March to mid-April, it offers a special treat—Kawazuzakura, a rare type of cherry blossom.
Kawazuzakura is different from regular cherry blossoms because it blooms earlier, usually starting in February. Its deep pink color makes the park look stunning, and unlike other cherry blossoms, it stays in bloom for more than a month. This gives visitors plenty of time to admire its beauty.
Showa Kinen Park is much larger than most city parks, making it less crowded and more peaceful. With wide open spaces, it is an ideal place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy the beauty of spring without the noise and rush of the city.
Matsuri and Spring Festivals
When people think of Japanese festivals, they often think of summer, but Tokyo has many exciting festivals in spring as well. These lively events are a great way to experience Japanese culture while enjoying the cheerful atmosphere of the season. Here are some of the best spring festivals to check out.
Kawazuzakura Festival (February-March)
One of the most unique cherry blossom festivals in Tokyo is the Kawazuzakura Festival, held from early February to early March. The festival celebrates the Kawazuzakura cherry blossoms, which are known for their darker pink color, making them stand out from the usual pale-pink blossoms.
The festival takes place along the Kawazu River, with cherry trees stretching for about 4 kilometers. When night falls, the trees are lit up, creating a breathtaking view that makes the festival feel even more magical.
Visitors can also enjoy delicious Japanese food and refreshing drinks, making it a perfect way to spend the day surrounded by beautiful scenery and tasty treats.
Kanamara Matsuri (First Sunday of April)
The Kanamara Matsuri, also called the Penis Festival, is one of the most unusual festivals in Tokyo. Everywhere you look, you will see phallic decorations, making this event unlike any other. Visitors from all over the world come to experience this one-of-a-kind celebration.
The festival takes place at Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki and has an interesting history. During the Edo period, this shrine was visited by people—especially prostitutes—who prayed for protection from diseases. Today, the festival is focused on prayers for fertility, safe childbirth, and sexual health.
The event is not only fun and amusing but also has an important purpose. A portion of the festival’s proceeds goes toward HIV research, making it a celebration with a cause. Attendees can enjoy penis-shaped food, masks, and even statues, while some people join the festival in drag, adding an extra element of entertainment.
Since the festival is now very popular with tourists, it can get extremely crowded. If you want to avoid the biggest rush, try to arrive early so you can take your time and enjoy the lively atmosphere at your own pace.
The Kanda Matsuri (Mid-May)
One of the most vibrant and historic festivals in Tokyo, the Kanda Matsuri is a major spring event. This festival dates back to the Edo period and lasts for six days, with its biggest celebrations taking place at Kanda Myojin Shrine and the surrounding areas.
During the festival, the streets are filled with colorful parades, traditional music, and energetic performances, bringing a joyful and exciting atmosphere to the city. The highlight of the festival is the grand procession, where people carry large and beautifully decorated portable shrines (mikoshi) through the streets.
While the main festivities usually happen over the weekend, the spirit of Kanda Matsuri can be felt throughout the city, making it an amazing event to witness if you are in Tokyo during spring. It is a great way to see Japan’s cultural traditions come to life in the heart of the city.
Outdoor Spring Activities
Aside from enjoying cherry blossoms during hanami, Tokyo offers plenty of fun activities to help you experience the energy of spring. Whether you prefer traditional festivals, outdoor adventures, or simply exploring the city’s lively streets, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Japan’s busy capital. From visiting markets and temples to tasting seasonal treats, Tokyo is full of ways to make the most of springtime.
Fruit Picking
One of the most enjoyable spring activities in Japan is fruit picking. Many visitors love picking fresh strawberries, which is both fun and affordable. It is a great activity for families, as even children can join in.
Prices usually start at around 1,000 yen, making it a budget-friendly experience. Tokyo and nearby areas have many strawberry farms, some located just 30 minutes from the city center. This makes it easy to escape the city for a short trip and enjoy the fresh air while tasting delicious, juicy strawberries.
Hiking
If you want to take a break from Tokyo’s fast-paced city life, hiking is a great way to explore nature. Just a short distance from the city, there are beautiful hiking trails where you can enjoy fresh air, peaceful scenery, and breathtaking views.
Spring is the perfect time for a hike, as the sun is shining and a gentle breeze keeps the temperature comfortable. Whether you choose an easy trail or a more challenging route, there are many hidden natural spots waiting to be discovered.
Aside from hiking, Tokyo has many rivers and lakes that are perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. You can even rent a bicycle and ride along these waterways, enjoying a peaceful journey through nature.
Zip Lining
Zip lining might not be the first activity that comes to mind when planning a trip to Tokyo, but it’s an exciting adventure worth trying. Surprisingly, Tokyo has several places where you can go zip lining and enjoy an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes.
Imagine flying through a forest canopy, feeling the cool spring air rush past you. It’s a thrilling experience that gives you a unique perspective of nature.
In recent years, zip lining has become more popular among both locals and tourists. If you are looking for a way to add some excitement to your spring itinerary, zip lining is an adventure you won’t forget!
Kayaking
For a more peaceful outdoor experience, kayaking is a great option. As the rivers around Tokyo fill with fresh spring water, they create the perfect setting for a relaxing ride.
Kayaking allows you to enjoy the calm water while taking in the beautiful scenery around you. It’s a great way to see Tokyo from a different angle while escaping the busy city streets.
Spring in Tokyo is full of outdoor opportunities, whether you want an adrenaline rush or a quiet moment in nature. So, put on your hiking boots, fasten your zip line harness, or grab a paddle—springtime in Tokyo is waiting for you!
If you’re excited to try any of these activities, let us know! Our team can help you find the best outdoor experiences to make your Tokyo adventure truly special.
Seasonal Drinks
Japan is famous for its seasonal food and drinks, and spring is no exception! During cherry blossom season, sakura (cherry blossom)-flavored treats appear everywhere, from cafes to convenience stores. Whether you prefer traditional Japanese sweets or modern creations, there are many delicious sakura-themed drinks to try.
Plan Your Spring Trip to Japan with Us
If you’ve ever thought about visiting Japan, spring is one of the best times to do it. The cherry blossoms, lively festivals, seasonal food, and ideal weather all come together to make it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re here for hanami picnics, outdoor adventures, or just to soak in the energy of the season, spring in Japan has something for everyone.
From peaceful parks to buzzing city streets, from cultural traditions to modern experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Japan in spring. Whether you want to relax under the cherry blossoms or dive into a packed festival crowd, we can help you make the most of your trip.
Planning a visit and not sure where to start? Let us take care of the details. Our Japan Travel Planner service is designed to help you create the perfect itinerary, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure. From hidden gems to must-see spots, we’ll make sure your trip is unforgettable.
Spring in Japan doesn’t last long, and neither do the cherry blossoms—so don’t miss your chance to see Japan at its best. Start planning today!
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