In Tokyo, cherry blossom season typically starts in late March and can last into early April, with the peak blooming period often occurring around the first week of April. However, the exact timing can vary each year depending on weather conditions.
Here are some of the best places to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo:
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Ueno Park: One of the most popular spots, Ueno Park has over 1,000 cherry trees lining its pathways.
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Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This large park features a variety of cherry trees, including some early-blooming varieties.
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Sumida Park: Located along the Sumida River, it provides stunning views of cherry blossoms with the Tokyo Skytree in the background.
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Chidorigafuchi: This area near the Imperial Palace offers beautiful views of cherry blossoms, especially from a boat on the moat.
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Yoyogi Park: A spacious park that is great for picnicking under the blooming cherry trees.
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Asakusa: The area around Senso-ji Temple has lovely cherry trees, and the combination of the blossoms with the temple’s historic architecture makes for a picturesque setting.
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Meguro River: A popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) with cherry trees lining the river, creating a stunning tunnel of blossoms.
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Koishikawa Korakuen: One of Tokyo's oldest Japanese gardens, known for its scenic beauty and variety of cherry trees.
For the best experience, it’s a good idea to check local forecasts for bloom predictions as spring approaches, and be prepared for large crowds, especially in popular viewing spots.