Ultimate guide to cherry blossom season in Tokyo
It's the prettiest time of year in Tokyo – see the 2021 cherry blossom forecast, best sakura viewing spots, and more
Read before you go: Here are the official notices from park authorities regarding cherry blossom activities at the respective venues.
Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are synonymous with Japan. Mention spring and, chances are, you'll imagine trees bursting with delicate blooms of white and pink lining the rivers and dotting the parks everywhere in Tokyo.
There's a ritual of sorts (known as hanami) that locals adhere to when enjoying this fleeting season, which lasts only for a couple of weeks at most. However, rest assured, even after the flowers have withered, you'll still find the essence of the season in the city's many food and drink offerings, from sakura-flavoured lattes to pretty desserts featuring the beautiful petals.
Although hanami will look a little different this year as large gatherings are discouraged at many Tokyo parks, we've pulled together a guide to help you make the most of the sakura season – yes, Instagram inspiration included. Plus, we've also compiled a list of sakura facts that will make you seem like an expert in no time.
RECOMMENDED: The best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan – outside of Tokyo
Peak pink
Can you – and should you – go see the cherry blossoms in Tokyo this year?
Here are the official notices from park management and authorities to help you make an informed decision
These cherry blossom hanami festivals in Tokyo are cancelled this year
We're not out of the woods yet – many of the city’s major sakura festivals have been cancelled due to Covid-19
Japan cherry blossom 2021 forecast
This year’s spring flowering dates for Somei Yoshino cherry trees have been released
The best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo
Where to see the sakura – Tokyo parks, gardens and more great hanami spots
These are the least crowded places in Tokyo for cherry blossoms
For an enjoyable sakura season minus the crowds, check out these parks and green spaces
Best cherry blossom events in Tokyo
Get your sakura fix at these cherry blossom-themed events and food promotions around the capital
Best cherry blossom desserts and drinks
Here are the tastiest, most beautiful sakura sweets in Tokyo right now
The best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan – outside of Tokyo
Can't get enough cherry blossoms in Tokyo? Here are the best spots to catch sakura across Japan, from Fukuoka to Sapporo
Japan has more than 70 words for cherry blossoms
You can see the influence of sakura everywhere in Japan, but especially in the Japanese language itself
Everything you need to know about the cherry blossoms
There's more to the bloomin' pink flowers than you think. Here's all you need to know about cherry blossoms before getting drunk at a hanami party