4 Great Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo

If you find yourself in Japan in late March or early April, there is a good chance there will be cherry blossoms in bloom. You can use the Sakura forecast to tell when the blossoms will be at their peak. I’ve detailed four great places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo.

Cherry blossoms are a big deal in Japan. Not only do they carry a lot of cultural symbolism (the start of spring, mortality), but they are also an excuse to grab drinks, food, friends, and head to a park.

Ueno Park Cherry Blossoms

In my opinion, Ueno Park is the place to see cherry blossoms. On the weekends there are tons of locals enjoying the blossoms and either picknicking or participating in festivities. The park is free to visit making it a popular destination, although it is huge so it’s never too crowded.

I recommend starting the day in the center of the park near the zoo where there are tons of cherry blossoms, and later walking down by Shinobazuno Pond.

The first time I went to Ueno park it was a warm, beautiful day and every inch of the grass was claimed by picknick blankets. The second time I went (5 years later) the weather was less ideal but there was a festival going on which was super fun! There was tons of food and sakura themed drinks.

Tip: Once you’ve gotten your fill of picnicking at Ueno Park, take a stroll through the Yanaka cemetery to admire more cherry blossoms. Then grab a beer at Yanaka Beer Hall.

Ueno Park during Sakura in Tokyo — Ueno Park during Sakura

Shinjuku Gyoen Cherry Blossoms

Shinjuku Gyoen is a park in the Shinjuku ward of Tokyo, and is one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots. Similar to Ueno Park, this is a popular spot for a picnic. Unlike Ueno Park, the gyoen is gated, has a small entrance fee, and is not open 24/7. The lines to enter the park can get very long on the weekends during peak Sakura. Nonetheless this is a must visit spot!

Shiba Park and Zozo-ji Temple Cherry Blossoms

Regardless of the time of year, Shiba park is worth a visit with Zojo-ji Temple and views of Tokyo Tower. If you are lucky enough to be there during Sakura, there are beautiful blossoms scattered throughout the area.

Shiba Park is located in Minato City, in the southern part of Tokyo and is free to visit. After exploring the park, it’s a short walk to Tokyo Tower which I thought was worth going up for the incredible views.

1000 Kosodate Jizo-son and sakura — Sakura at Shiba Park

Sakura and Zojoji Temple in Tokyo — Sakura and Zojoji Temple

Yoyogi Park Cherry Blossoms

Yoyogi Park is located in the Shibuya ward of Tokyo. The cherry blossoms here are fabulous and this is another must visit spot. I went on a Monday and there were tons of people picknicking under the blossoms.