Hanami, the Japanese custom of enjoying the annual cherry blossom, occurs in Tokyo early every April. “Flower viewing”, the literal translation of Hanami, is typically a family affair – multiple generations travel to parks, temples and shrines to admire the blossoms. While some prefer just to take a leisurely stroll, most stake out a spot beneath the trees for daylong picnics. A festive sense of welcome and renewal abounds as blossoming often coincides with the beginning of the school and fiscal years. The playing of music and drinking of sake often ensures the party atmosphere carries on into the night. Here are the Top 5 Places to Enjoy Hanami In Tokyo. Read our recent post on Sakura Season.
Shinjuku Gyoen
More than 1,000 cherry trees of over a dozen varieties are punctuated by spacious lawn areas.
Ueno Park
The noisy crowds pack Ueno Park, which has over 1000 stretching between the National Museum and Shinobazu Pond.
Chidorigafuchi
Hire a boat and leisurely row between the hundreds of cherry blossoms that line the moats of the former Edo Castle.
Sumida Park
Blossoms can be enjoyed on foot in the park or from a boat on Sumida River. The blossom trees are lit at night.
Yoyogi Park
More than 600 cherry blossoms are scattered across Yoyogi Park’s green expanses. All of which offer fantastic picnic spots.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Images: Shinjuku Gyoen – Starfire; Ueno Park – Kabacchi; Chidorigafuchi – hide99; Sumida Park – Yoshikazu Takada; Yoyogi Park – yuichi.sakuraba)