Spring in Tokyo feels like walking through a living watercolor, with pale pink petals falling around you as you explore city streets. If you’re planning your Tokyo spring activities, you’ve hit the jackpot—this ultimate guide covers everything from cherry blossom hanami to hidden flower fairs, plus tips on weather, crowds, and day trips. Ready to dive in?
Embrace cherry blossom viewing
Hanami (flower viewing) is the spring ritual that brings Tokyoites outdoors by the thousands. Who doesn’t love packing a picnic blanket under a canopy of pink blooms? Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, knowing the top spots and timing can make all the difference.
Below is a quick look at five must-see cherry blossom locations:
| Spot | Trees | Peak bloom | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ueno Park | ~1,200 | Late March to April | Arrive before 8am to grab a lantern-lit picnic spot (Japan Guide) |
| Shinjuku Gyoen | 1,000+ | Late March to April | Reserve weekend tickets online to skip the line |
| Meguro River | ~800 | Late March to April | Stroll toward Meguro station for a quieter riverside view (Travely Notes) |
| Chidorigafuchi | n/a | Late March to April | Rent a rowboat and watch petals drift on the moat |
| Yoyogi Park | ~700 | Late March to April | Lay out a picnic mat near the Shibuya entrance |
For a full rundown of the best hanami cherry blossom spots, bookmark that guide and check bloom forecasts often.
Discover floral celebrations
Beyond sakura, spring in Tokyo bursts with other flowers and colors. Want to wander among vibrant fields or stroll under illuminated blooms?
- Showa Kinen Park Flower Festival
Late March to late May, Tachikawa – 1,500 cherry trees frame canola fields, tulip displays, bike paths, and pedal boats (byFood) - Nezu Shrine Azalea Festival
Mid-April to early May, Bunkyo – 3,000 azalea plants in 100 varieties light up hidden shrine paths (Rakuten Travel)
Did you know these floral fairs often include food stalls and evening illuminations? Check our tokyo festival calendar for exact dates.
Dive into cultural traditions
Spring in Tokyo blends centuries-old ceremonies with modern spectacles. Which event will you circle on your calendar?
- Hina Matsuri (Girls’ Day) – March 3; admire ornamental doll displays and taste chirashi-zushi (scattered sushi) as families celebrate girls’ health and happiness (Rakuten Travel)
- Tokyo Marathon – early March; watch 38,000 runners race past landmarks, cheered on by over a million spectators (byFood)
- Mt. Takao Fire-Walking Festival – mid-March; witness monks in traditional robes walk barefoot over smoldering coals for a mystic spring rite (byFood)
Each tradition offers a unique window into Tokyo’s past and present.
Enjoy outdoor adventures
If you want to stretch your legs after a hanami picnic, Tokyo’s spring scene has you covered. Ready to paddle or pedal through blooms?
- Row a boat at Inokashira Park – about 500 cherry trees around a pond create petals-on-water magic (Travely Notes)
- Cycle fields at Showa Kinen Park – rental shops onsite make it easy to explore flower corridors on two wheels
- Jog the Chidorigafuchi loop – dawn runs around the moat let you beat crowds and catch cherry blossoms on the water
These outdoor activities blend fitness and floral wonder in one go.
Indulge in seasonal cuisine
Spring in Tokyo isn’t just pretty to look at—it’s delicious. Local shops serve up limited-edition treats that you won’t want to miss.
- Sakura mochi – pink rice cakes wrapped in salted cherry leaves
- Hanami dango – pastel rice dumplings available at park stalls
- Strawberry parfaits – catch Japan’s prized berries at cafes across town
- Spring bento – look for chirashi-zushi and sakura-themed bentos in train stations
- Festival snacks – try taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes) filled with sweet bean or matcha
For more on Tokyo’s seasonal food specialties, dive into our guide on spring flavors.
Explore art exhibitions
April showers? No problem. Tokyo’s world-class museums host spring exhibitions you’ll love.
- Renoir & Cezanne showcase – opening spring 2025 at The National Art Center in Roppongi (Japan Travel)
- Photography and design pop-ups – check schedules at the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum and 21_21 Design Sight
Art lovers can spend a rainy afternoon surrounded by masterpieces instead of raindrops.
Take nearby day trips
Craving a quick escape from Tokyo’s bustle? These spots make perfect day-trip destinations:
- Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, Shizuoka – early February to March; stroll along the river under early-blooming trees (Japan Travel)
- Shibazakura Festival at Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi – mid-April to late May; millions of pink moss plants blanket fields against Fuji’s backdrop (Magical Trip)
- Kamakura Festival, Kanagawa – mid-April; experience horseback archery, traditional dances, and shrine processions by the coast (Ryokou Girl)
Just grab a train ticket and you’re exploring spring highlights beyond Tokyo in under two hours.
Plan your spring visit
A bit of prep goes a long way. Here’s a monthly snapshot and a few pro tips to help you nail your itinerary.
| Month | Avg temp | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| March | 13°C (55°F) | Hina Matsuri, Tokyo Marathon |
| April | 18.5°C (65°F) | Cherry blossom peak, Azalea Festival |
| May | 23°C (73°F) | Flower fields, Golden Week crowds |
- Follow bloom forecasts via apps or our cherry blossom season guide
- Book weekend entries at Shinjuku Gyoen in advance
- Arrive at popular spots before 9am to avoid long lines
- Layer up – spring mornings can be crisp, afternoons warm (see seasonal clothing)
- Carry a light umbrella for sudden showers (Tokyo averages 1,600 mm rain a year; check our seasonal weather)
A little planning helps you squeeze every drop of spring magic into your trip.
Tokyo in spring is a vibrant playground of petals, flavors, and traditions. Try one of these activities on your next visit and let us know which moment made you smile.
Frequently asked questions
When is cherry blossom season in Tokyo?
Peak bloom usually falls between late March and early April. Exact timing varies by a few days each year.
How can I avoid crowds at hanami spots?
Arrive before 8 am, pick weekdays, and explore less-busy gardens like Chidorigafuchi or Inokashira Park.
What should I wear in Tokyo spring?
Layers are key—think a light jacket, long-sleeve shirts, and comfy walking shoes. Check our seasonal clothing for more tips.
Are there free spring events in Tokyo?
Yes, many parks and shrines host free festivals and light-up displays. Yoyogi Park hanami and Nezu Shrine azalea viewing won’t cost you a yen.
Can I see spring flowers outside Tokyo in one day?
Absolutely. Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival and the Mt. Fuji Shibazakura fields are reachable by train in two hours or less.
