Hanami, the Japanese custom of enjoying the annual cherry blossom, occurs in Tokyo early every April. “Flower viewing”, the literal translation of Hanami, is typically a family affair – multiple generations travel to parks, temples and shrines to admire the blossoms. While some prefer just to take a leisurely stroll, most stake out a spot beneath the trees for daylong picnics. A festive sense of welcome and renewal abounds as blossoming often coincides with the beginning of the school and fiscal years. The playing of music and drinking of sake often ensures the party atmosphere carries on into the night. Here are the Top 5 Places to Enjoy Hanami In Tokyo.
Shinjuku Gyoen – More than 1000 cherry trees of over a dozen varieties are punctuated by spacious lawn areas.
Ueno Park – The noisy crowds pack Ueno Park, which has over 1000 stretching between the National Museum and Shinobazu Pond.
Chidorigafuchi – Hire a boat and leisurely row between the hundreds of cherry blossoms that line the moats of the former Edo Castle.
Sumida Park – Blossoms can be enjoyed on foot in the park or from a boat on Sumida River. The blossom trees are lit at night.
Yoyogi Park – More than 600 cherry blossoms are scattered across Yoyogi Park’s green expanses. All of which offer fantastic picnic spots.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Images: Starfire, Kabacchi, hide99, Yoshikazu Takada, yuichi.sakuraba)
