Thursday, 9 March 2017

Popular Spring Cherry Blossoms in Yokyo

MEGURO RIVERSIDE
Although Japan's busy capital wouldn't seem like the obvious place to enjoy strolling under blooming cherry trees, Tokyo has lots of parks, temples gardens and hidden spots which get taken over by the pink blossoms. For 2017, Tokyo's cherry trees are predicted to start blossoming around March 24th, with best viewing conditions around March 31st to April 8th. But don't worry, there are several different varieties of sakura, all of which have slightly different blooming times, so you are sure to catch a few even a bit before and after these dates!

Our Tokyo team, all experienced hanami-lovers, share some of their favourite spots to experience the fluffy white explosion of spring!

MEGURO RIVERSIDE

目黒川 | MEGURO GAWA
During weekends and evenings this 4km stretch of river is a very busy spot filled with revelers drunk on the beauty of spring (and perhaps a few glasses of beer), but during the day it is much calmer. The riverside is entirely lined with large cherry trees, and on sunny days there is nothing better than slowly strolling under the pink canopy with a warm cup of coffee in hand. Easily accessible from both Nakameguro Station and Meguro Station, it is just a short train ride away from sightseeing spots like Shibuya and Shinjuku.

SHINJUKU GYOEN PARK

SHINJUKU GYOEN PARK

新宿御苑 | SHINJUKU GYOEN
Tokyo's equivalent of Central Park, Shinjuku Gyoen boasts over 1000 cherry trees of different varieties, which means that even if you are visiting a bit early or late in the season you can catch a few blossoms. Bring a plastic sheet or towel to sit on and some treats (but no alcohol please, as this is a National Park), then just pick a tree to lounge under for a lovely Japanese-style spring picnic. Not far from Shinjuku Station or Shinjuku Sanchome Station, being so conveniently located means that on weekends you will have lots of company!
INOKASHIRA PARK

INOKASHIRA PARK

井の頭公園 | INOKASHIRA KOEN
A short train ride out of central Tokyo, Inokashira Park is not far from the world-famous Ghibli Museum! Located in the trendy Kichijoji area, the short walk from Kichijoji Station to the park will take you past lots of cute stores, coffee shops and tempting little restaurants. The paths of this large park surround a small lake, and one of the major attractions during cherry blossom season is renting a boat to float under the drooping branches of the blossom-loaded cherry trees.

For further information and tour bookings:
https://www.veltra.com/en/asia/japan/

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