Tokyo has endless places to see Cherry Blossoms, but with only 1.5 days before setting off on my 21-day train journey across Japan I had to choose which spots were the most interesting to me. Besides, a quick visit here would make sure I could see blossoms in other places in Japan before the very quick blooms are gone. They only last a week or so!
For these 2 nights in Tokyo, I stayed at the 9 Hrs Capsule Hotel in Hamamatasucho. This station is in central Tokyo on the useful Yamanote Loop Line and has direct service from Haneda Airport. The hotel was a 3 minute walk from the station and from here I could get anywhere in Tokyo using the train and subway, usually with no more than 1 easy connection. When navigating in Japan, google maps is your best friend. Just put in directions from the station you are at and would like to go to and it will tell you what trains to take with useful info like name of the line, which direction, which time, and sometimes even the platform you will use. In a lot of stations each line has it’s own dedicated platform so it’s easy to follow the signage.
The capsule hotel was amazing for a budget solo traveler. There are 3 floors for women and 3 floors for men, each with one room of capsules stacked two high. There is also a men’s restroom and female restroom, each with showers, sinks, toilets, etc. There is another floor for lockers and baggage storage. Finally, the top floor is a community area with tables and an excellent view of the Tokyo Tower. The capsules themselves are much larger than you think! Space was never an issue for me sleeping or playing around on my phone. They have pillows, blankets, chargers, lights, and even alarms built in. Multiple power outlets are provided (at least 2). Lastly there is a curtain to pull down for full privacy, at least visually. Some sound (snoring) does sneak into the capsules although overall it was very quiet. My ONLY complaint was it was a little warm, and this specific capsule didn’t have individual air control. So you’re at the mercy of whatever the temperature is. I would stay here again, but did prefer some other capsule hotels I stayed at later in my trip.
Cherry Blossoms Location #1 – Asakusa
After arriving at the hotel from Haneda, I dropped off my bags and headed for one of my favorite spots in Tokyo for sunset. To get there, just take the subway to Asakusa Station and follow the exit signs for Kaminarimon Gate. Asakusa is a traditional area, with a large street market (Nakamise) and temple (Senso-ji). The streets that surround it are really neat and fun to look at all the shops. It definitely has a unique charm among Tokyo neighborhoods, and around the temple grounds there are plenty of cherry blossoms. Here are my tips for Asakusa:
1. View of the Skytree and other unique architecture from the bridge next to Asakusa Station
2. Go to the top of the Tourist Information Center for a free viewing deck (also can exchange currency here)
3. Walk down Nakamise Shopping Street, between Kaminarimon Gate and Senso-ji Temple. Try some unique snacks like strawberry mochi
4. Walk around and inside Senso-ji Temple, this is where you will find most of the cherry blossoms and food vendors
Cherry Blossoms Location #2 – Ueno Park
On my way back to Hamamatasucho, I stopped by Ueno Park which was at my train changing location anyways – Ueno Station. The park is probably the most famous in Tokyo and for Sakura and even though it wasn’t my personal favorite, I’m still glad I went for a quick stroll. It is easy to find with many signs in Ueno Station pointing to the park – there is even an exit called the Park Gate. From there, follow the crowds to the row of cherry trees. There are hundreds here, but the path is pretty wide so you don’t get that “tunnel” effect you get in other places. They split the path in half for crowds to move in each direction. They do have lanterns lit up at night, but from what I’ve seen this spot actually looks better in the day time. Something new to experience next time!
Cherry Blossoms Location #3 – Chidorigafuchi Moat
I spent the first half of day 2 in Tokyo walking along the lengthy Chidorigafuchi Moat – despite the rain this cherry blossom spot was AMAZING. It was never ending with tunnels of trees and weeping trees along the moat. Great variety! To reach this area, take the subway to Kudanshita Station. It is a short up-hill walk to the beginning of the moat. Walk past the entrance to the Imperial Palace and then turn left to follow the path along the West side of the moat. There are various spots to take pictures looking over the entire moat and then the walkway though a tunnel of trees. It’s magical! The ultimate spot is the boat pier, with an overlook in all directions and on a sunny day you can row boats here! If it’s open, get there early because it can get crowded. And definitely carry cash, a much needed commodity for “street” activities in Japan.
You can walk back to Kudanshita Station or you can continue following Chidorigafuchi Park all the way down to Hanzomon Station. From here you can easily catch the subway to wherever your next destination in Tokyo is.
Cherry Blossoms Location #4 – Shibuya Sakura Street
This spot wasn’t even on my radar until I went to Shibuya for an early dinner after Chidorigafuchi Moat! And I’m glad I went because it ended up being my favorite spot of all. I walked by it in the day time, but went to Shibuya’s electric shopping area to kill time before the street would be lit up at night. Nearby the famous Shibuya Crossing is one of Tokyo’s Taco Bell locations in a fun alley way. I had to try a quesadilla and taco in Japan! It hit the spot, as did unlimited melon fanta on the soda fountain. I walked around the Shibuya Central Road area (pedestrian street) and then made the 10 minute walk back to the top of Shibuya Sakura Street.
This street is lined with super tall cherry trees, which form a magical canopy over this one way, gentle sloping street down a small hill in Shibuya. The street even has a few wiggled in it, making for a even more photoesque location. With the music playing like many popular streets in Japan, and the trees illuminated at night, it was an unbelievable atmosphere. Everyone else there and myself had a lot of fun running out and taking pictures in between the frequent taxis that would zip around the corner and down the street. At the bottom, there is a row of lanterns and popular crossing that make for another completely unique vantage point. Lastly, make sure you walk up or take the elevator up to the elevated walkway across from the street that connects to Shibuya Station. You can see the street from above! Truly the best sakura street in Tokyo.
Cherry Blossoms Location #5 – Nakameguro River
Head over to Nakameguro Station for what might be the most well know night time cherry blossom illumination spot in all of Tokyo! The river is only a block or two north of the station and you’ll see light up trees on both sides. To the right is a good photo spot, but walk to the left (west) to experience tunnels of illuminated trees and fantastic spots on the little bridges across the river where you are completely surrounded. It’s a super short walk and bang for your buck! However, this comes with a price…it’s extremely crowded! And the lights are only on for a brief time, like 6-8pm. So everyone is there at the same time. Brave the crowds, pack some patience, and remember how organized Japan is. There were guards on the street to keep people moving and enforce some walkways as one way only. Do a loop around the area and don’t rush!
On the east side of the main bridge there are some food vendors, or there are many trendy shops around Nakameguro. I didn’t research any this time as I already at a meal in the afternoon, but late at night I was craving a small snack. There was plenty of small cafes near the train station and I enjoyed some karage and gyoza for under $5.
What is your favorite cherry blossom location in Tokyo, or which of these are you most excited to check out? Let me know in the comments!