“I want to see cherry blossoms!”
Many visitors to Japan have this dream. There’s nothing quite like seeing trees covered in soft pink blooms, telling us the arrival of spring.
But what if I told you…
“You can see cherry blossoms in Tokyo as early as December.”
Surprised? The next photo was taken at the end of December. No, it’s not CG or an anime scene. I took it myself.
It’s true that the peak cherry blossom season in Tokyo is from late March to early April. According to the latest forecast issued on February 6th, the cherry blossoms in Tokyo will start blooming on March 25, 2025—but forecasts can be wrong.
Still, no worries! Even if the peak timing shifts, you can enjoy cherry blossoms in Tokyo from December to late April.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Are you ready to have a private e-bike tour to enjoy cherry blossom viewing? Ask us here!
When is Cherry Blossom Season in Tokyo?
The peak bloom in Tokyo usually falls between late March and early April. In 2024, climate change caused the peak to shift by about two weeks, disappointing many visitors who planned their trip around cherry blossoms (but delighting those who weren’t expecting them!).
The latest forecast predicts March 25, 2025, as the start of the bloom, but timing can vary.
So, when can you actually see cherry blossoms?
If you give up seeing them at peak bloom, you will realize that cherry blossoms can be enjoyed from December all the way to late April!
Early & Late-Blooming Cherry Blossoms
Why can you see cherry blossoms in different seasons? The answer is simple:
Not all cherry blossoms are the same!
When most people think of cherry blossoms, they picture Somei Yoshino, the most common variety in Japan. It blooms in late March and only lasts about 10 days before falling. About 80% of Tokyo’s cherry trees are Somei Yoshino, but there are many other varieties with different colors, shapes, and blooming seasons.
Here are some of the main cherry blossom varieties and their peak seasons:
| Variety | Blooming Season in Tokyo | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Jugatsu-zakura | Oct–Dec & Late Mar–Apr | Small flowers that bloom twice a year. |
| Kan-zakura | Late Feb–Mid Mar | Deep pink flowers, one of the first to bloom. |
| Kawazu-zakura | Late Feb–Early Mar | Bright pink blossoms, famous in Kawazu. |
| Okame-zakura | Mid Mar | Deep pink, downward-facing flowers. |
| Okan-zakura | Mid Mar | Clear white petals. |
| Oshima-zakura | Late Mar–Early Apr | White flowers with green leaves. |
| Yama-zakura | Late Mar–Early Apr | Wild white flowers. |
| Shidare-zakura | Late Mar–Early Apr | Cherry blossoms with elegant drooping branches. |
| Yaezakura | Mid Apr | Multi-layered blossoms with thick petals. |
Best Cherry Blossom Spots (Beyond Somei Yoshino!)
While Tokyo has many famous sakura spots, most feature Somei Yoshino trees. If you want to see other varieties, check out these hidden gems:
- Yoyogi Park – A spacious park in the city with Kawazu-zakura for an early bloom.
- Nihonbashi – Home to beautiful Okame-zakura, perfect for photos.
- Kyobashi – One of the best places to see Jugatsu-zakura in full bloom.
- Azabudai – Near Azabudai Hills, you’ll find Kawazu-zakura in early spring.
- Aoyama – A stylish district where you can spot hidden Jugatsu-zakura trees.
- Toyosu Gururi Park – A waterfront park where you can enjoy Jugatsu-zakura with a scenic view.
- Hibiya Park – A relaxing city oasis with a mix of different sakura varieties.
- Shiba Park – Enjoy cherry blossoms with Tokyo Tower as your backdrop, including early-blooming Kan-zakura!
How to Make the Most of Cherry Blossom Viewing
You might think the best way to enjoy cherry blossoms is simply taking photos or videos. That’s not wrong—but with a few extra tips, you can turn a simple cherry blossom viewing into an unforgettable experience!
Here are three ways to elevate your cherry blossom experience:
1. Find the Best Photography Spots
Famous parks can be packed with people. Knowing hidden locations allows you to take beautiful shots without the crowds.
2. Learn the Best Photo Techniques
Most people just look up and snap a photo with their phone. But with the different angles and framing, you can capture unique and artistic shots.
3. Enjoy Sakura Mochi
No cherry blossom viewing is complete without sakura mochi—a seasonal Japanese sweet.
This delicate treat features pink-colored rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste, wrapped in a salt-pickled cherry leaf. The combination of sweetness and saltiness is a perfect match for cherry blossom viewing!
The Best Way to See Cherry Blossoms? By Bike Tour!
Where, when, and how can you see the best cherry blossoms? How can you avoid the crowds and maximize your time?
That’s where a bike tour comes in.
With Tokyo Bike Bliss, you’ll explore hidden cherry blossom spots that are difficult to reach on foot. Our e-bike tour lets you cover more ground effortlessly, ensuring you see the best blossoms without wasting time.
Want to experience Tokyo’s cherry blossoms in a fun and efficient way?
Join us for an unforgettable sakura cycling adventure!
Final Thoughts
While cherry blossom season peaks in late March, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy sakura before and after the main bloom. Knowing when and where to go makes all the difference.
Want to escape the crowds, find hidden spots, and enjoy a truly unique cherry blossom viewing experience? Join our e-bike tour, discover secret sakura locations, and enjoy delicious sakura mochi along the way.
We can’t wait to ride with you!
We’d love to help you discover the city in a whole new way. Click here today and ask our availability.
