Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo 2025: Private Sakura Tours

Tokyo, Japan's vibrant capital, transforms into a serene and magical landscape during the cherry blossom season. The arrival of sakura (cherry blossoms) in the city marks a moment of reflection and appreciation for nature's beauty. Spring in Tokyo offers the perfect opportunity to explore the city in a unique way. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of cherry blossom season in Tokyo in 2025.

When is Cherry Blossom Season in Tokyo?

The cherry blossom season in Tokyo typically occurs from late March to early or mid-April. While the timing can vary depending on the weather, it’s always best to check closer to your visit. Cooler years bring later blooms, while warmer years bring them earlier. In 2025, cherry blossoms are expected to reach full bloom around late March.

Are There Cherry Blossom Festivals in Tokyo?

During spring, Tokyo is filled with cherry blossom festivities, mainly taking place in the city's public parks. These festivals are a great way to experience the beauty of sakura while enjoying local food and cultural performances. Here are some of the best festivals to look out for:

Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival

Ueno Park hosts one of the largest cherry blossom festivals in Tokyo. The park comes alive with thousands of cherry trees in full bloom and a variety of food stalls. During the festival, visitors can also rent boats to view the cherry blossoms from Shinobazu Pond.

Chiyoda City Sakura Festival

Located near the Imperial Palace, Chidori-ga-fuchi is one of the most scenic spots for cherry blossom viewing. The path along the Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat is lined with beautiful cherry trees, and you can even rent boats for a romantic cruise under the blossoms. The trees are illuminated at night during the festival, offering a magical experience.

Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival

Held along the banks of the Sumida River, this festival offers stunning views of the cherry blossoms with Tokyo Skytree in the background. The park is filled with food stalls, and visitors can enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnics under the trees. The blossoms are illuminated in the evening, creating a picturesque scene.

Great Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Tokyo

Nakameguro

This trendy neighborhood is famous for its cherry blossom-lined Meguro River. Thousands of cherry trees create a stunning tunnel of blossoms along the riverbanks. In the evenings, the cherry trees are illuminated, making it one of the most romantic places for nighttime hanami.

Yoyogi Park

Located in Shibuya Ward, Yoyogi Park offers a lively atmosphere during cherry blossom season. It’s one of the largest parks in Tokyo, with a wide variety of cherry tree species. The park is perfect for picnics and outdoor celebrations, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Shinjuku Gyoen

This park is an urban oasis, providing a peaceful escape in the heart of Tokyo. Shinjuku Gyoen is home to a wide variety of cherry trees, including somei-yoshino and shidare-zakura, offering a prolonged and diverse hanami experience. The park’s beautiful landscape is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a traditional hanami picnic.

Chidorigafuchi

Located near the Imperial Palace, this area offers breathtaking views of cherry blossoms along the moat. You can walk along the scenic path or rent a boat to experience the cherry blossoms from the water. The trees are illuminated at night, creating an unforgettable hanami experience.

Sumida Park

This park, located along the Sumida River, is a popular spot for hanami. With cherry trees lining the riverbank, it’s a perfect place for a picnic with a view of the blossoms. The park offers stunning views of Tokyo Skytree in the background, especially when the cherry blossoms are illuminated at night.

Private Cherry Blossom Tours in Tokyo 2025

For a truly personalized experience, booking a private cherry blossom tour is highly recommended. Private tours allow you to visit the best sakura spots at your own pace, guided by an expert who can provide insights into the cultural significance of hanami. You’ll also avoid the crowds and have more flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences.

Some of the top private cherry blossom tours to consider for 2025 include:

Private Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Tour

Explore the beautiful cherry blossom-lined Meguro River with a private guide. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, take in the illuminated blossoms in the evening, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with a view of the cherry blossoms.

Private Shinjuku Gyoen and Yoyogi Park Tour

This private tour will take you to two of Tokyo's best hanami spots. Enjoy the tranquility of Shinjuku Gyoen and the lively atmosphere of Yoyogi Park, while learning about the history and traditions behind Japan's cherry blossom season.

Chidorigafuchi Boat Tour

For a romantic and peaceful experience, book a private boat tour along Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat. Cruise under the cherry blossoms with your guide, enjoying the scenic beauty of the moat and the Imperial Palace grounds.