8 Things to Do in Tokyo in Spring

There are countless wonderful things to do in Tokyo in spring, making it a very popular time for visitors eager to experience the city’s seasonal charm. With cherry blossoms in full bloom, historic shrine festivals, and scenic river cruises, the city offers a perfect spring vacation. The cherry blossom season, known locally as sakura, typically spans from late March to early April, transforming Tokyo into a picturesque landscape of pink and white blossoms.

Whether you’re strolling through parks, participating in traditional festivals, or simply enjoying the pleasant temperatures, spring in Tokyo is an unforgettable experience.

1. Chidorigafuchi Green Way

One of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in town

Good for: Couples, Families, Photo

Chidorigafuchi Green Way, a 700-meter-long path next to a moat on the west side of the Imperial Palace, is one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo. It’s within a 5-minute walk from Metro Kudanshita Station, attracting locals to stop by after work.

There are 260 trees along the path, along with 330 trees in Kitanomaru Park, just on the opposite side of the moat. The scenery of cherry blossoms in full bloom is pretty spectacular. There are also night illuminations during cherry blossom season, and you can relax and enjoy these sights on a rented boat.

Location: 2 Chome Kudanminami, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0074, Japan

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2. Cherry blossom parties

Celebrating spring with traditional hanami

Good for: Couples, Families, Photo

Spring breaks in Tokyo offer a unique opportunity to witness the city adorned with ephemeral cherry blossoms, celebrated through traditional hanami (flower viewing) parties. These gatherings, complete with sake, plum wine, and delightful picnics, provide the best way to immerse yourself in the sakura (cherry blossom) season.

For an unforgettable experience, head to Ueno Park or Shinjuku Gyoen, where you can see the cherry blossoms bloom amid expansive green spaces. Alternatively, visit Chidorigafuchi near Kitanomaru Park, where the fallen cherry blossoms create a picturesque scene, resembling snowflakes gently floating on the Imperial Palace moat.

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3. River cruises

Sailing through the beautiful blossoming city

Good for: Adventure, Photo

River cruises down the Sumida River offer a scenic journey that takes you past a blend of old and new buildings, including the iconic beer glass-shaped Asahi Beer Building. You will also glide by the beautiful 18th-century Hamarikyu Onshi Gardens and 12 unique bridges.

Hop aboard a Tokyo Cruise Ship boat at Asakusa to experience the entire scene illuminated by the vibrant cherry blossoms, magnolias, and purple azaleas in full bloom. These cruises provide a great way to see Tokyo, all while surrounded by the stunning colors of spring.

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4. Tokyo Bay

Stunning waterfront views

Good for: Photo, Food, Nightlife

A cool evening cocktail or a locally brewed beer by the waterside on Tokyo Bay is the perfect way to top off a crisp spring evening. The dazzling sight of Rainbow Bridge all lit up is best enjoyed from the Sunset Bar at the Intercontinental Tokyo Bay, where the ambiance and views create an unforgettable experience.

For a more laid-back vibe, head to T.Y. Harbor brewery restaurant, where you can watch boats cruise by on the peaceful waters while savoring their expertly crafted ales.

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5. Sanja Matsuri festival

Springtime celebration

Good for: Photo, Budget

The Sanja Matsuri festival in May is a wonderful way to experience the vibrant energy of Tokyo in spring. During this lively celebration, portable shrines adorned with mysterious deities, the rhythmic beats of drums by enthusiastic musicians, and colorfully dressed dancers fill the streets in a dazzling parade.

Sanja Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s most beloved and popular festivals. Immerse yourself in the carnival spirit and the whirlwind of sights and sounds as you wander through the historic streets of Asakusa by the iconic red Senso-ji Temple.

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6. Yabusame festival

Samurai and horseback archery

Good for: History, Photo, Budget

Experience a journey back to Edo-period Japan at the captivating Yabusame festival in April. This unique event features skilled jockeys dressed as samurai, who demonstrate their prowess by firing arrows at targets while galloping on horseback.

In addition to the thrilling archery displays, the festival also boasts a vibrant costume parade showcasing intricately patterned kimonos, imposing warlords, and fierce warriors. Join the festivities from the scenic banks of the Sumida River at Sumida Park and watch the rich tapestry of Japan’s history and tradition unfold.

Location: 1 Chome Hanakawado, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0033, Japan

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7. Mount Fuji views from Tokyo Tower

Panoramic views of Japan’s iconic peak

Good for: Photo, Couples, Families

Mount Fuji views from Tokyo Tower are stunning in the crisp, clean spring air, making spring the best season to be awed by Japan’s iconic peak. From the Top Deck of Tokyo Tower, you can marvel at the snow-capped peaks of Mount Fuji during the day or its dramatic silhouette against the night sky.

The viewing platform offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, giving you the sensation of floating mid-air as you take in the sprawling urban landscape and the majestic mountain in the distance.

Location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

Phone: +81 (0)33-433-5111

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8. Horseracing in Tokyo

Spring racing events

Good for: Adventure, Families

Spring is the best time to enjoy the excitement and pace of horseracing in Tokyo, with some of the nation’s finest international race meets running in April, May, and June.

Feel the electrifying atmosphere as crowds roar while horses and their jockeys whizz past during the Yasuda Kinen horse race at Tokyo Racecourse. For another thrilling experience, head to Nakayama Racecourse to witness the spectacular jumps at the Nakayama Grand Jump. Both events are sure to captivate both racing enthusiasts as well as newcomers.

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This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.