Shinjuku Events March 2026: Sakura Festivals, Art Events & Best Things to Do
Since moving to a neighborhood adjacent to Shinjuku in 2024, I've been visiting Shinjuku almost daily to explore its appeal and discover spots I can recommend to tourists. I updated this article in January 2026 to incorporate my findings from this research, along with the latest information for 2026.
Another reason for updating the article is the growing interest in tours that allow visitors to safely and deeply experience Shinjuku's nightlife. As these tours gain popularity, Magical Trip's tour, which ranked #1 among all tours on Tripadvisor, has been receiving numerous applications.
If you want to enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife, I recommend the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku," which ranked #1 on Tripadvisor. Our guides who know Shinjuku inside and out will take you bar hopping while avoiding dangerous areas, allowing you to fully enjoy Shinjuku at night.
I also recommend the "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku," where you can enjoy premium wagyu beef barbecue and exceptional sushi. You'll learn from food-savvy tour guides about the best ways to grill your meat and proper sushi etiquette while enjoying exquisite Japanese cuisine.
I hope you can safely and thoroughly enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife with Magical Trip's tours!
Introduction
March in Tokyo marks the end of daytime chills as warmer weather sets in. Pink cherry blossoms blooming throughout the city create elegant spaces, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
Within Tokyo, Shinjuku is an area that features bustling entertainment districts, commercial facilities, and office buildings, while also offering lush green spaces just a short walk away. The nearest station, "Shinjuku Station," is known for its excellent accessibility, served by 11 railway lines making it easily reachable from any direction.
In March, Shinjuku hosts various events including traditional ceremonies praying for good harvests and world-famous marathon events, while local parks offer cherry blossom viewing opportunities.
In this article, we'll introduce the highlights, basic information, schedules, and access details for these events.
2026 Year-round Event Schedule in Shinjuku↓
・Shinjuku: List of Events & Festivals for 2026
sena kanda
Table of Contents
・Traditional Events in Shinjuku for March 2026
・Special March-only experiences in Shinjuku
・Shinjuku MYLORD Shopping Mall Closing After 40 Years in March
Traditional Events in Shinjuku for March 2026
Hatsuuma Obisha Festival
Source: Official website
The Hatsuuma Obisha Festival, held at Mizuinari Shrine, is a festival celebrating agricultural abundance through archery. "Obisha" refers to shooting arrows while standing (not on horseback).
Historically, the Hatsuuma Obisha Festival has been performed to divine the year's harvest. It was believed that if an archer successfully hit the target, it would bring a bountiful harvest that year.
During the festival, archers shoot arrows at targets marked with the characters for "demon" and "fortune." A highlight is watching the archers shoot while shouting "Ei!" and "Oh!" with great force. While the atmosphere is solemn, successful hits are met with cheers from the crowd.
This event is highly recommended for those interested in experiencing traditional Japanese ceremonies up close.
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Date: TBD March 2026 (The first Day of the Horse in the lunar calendar falls on March 9, 2026) ⁑
Access: 20-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station (JR Yamanote Line, Seibu Shinjuku Line, Subway Tozai Line)
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.tokyo-jinjacho.or.jp/shinjuku/5445/
Shichigosan Visit at Hikawa Shrine in Shinjuku Ochiai
Source: Official website
Shichigosan Mode is a traditional Japanese ceremony where children visit shrines at specific ages to pray for their healthy growth. Both boys and girls visit at age 3, boys at age 5, and girls at age 7.
During Shichigosan visits, children wear kimono while families dress in kimono or special attire for shrine visits and photo sessions. While Shichigosan typically occurs from October to December, Hikawa Shrine welcomes visitors year-round, including during the upcoming Shinjuku Event in March 2026.
A delightful aspect of visiting in March is the opportunity to take beautiful photos with Kawazu cherry blossoms and plum flowers as your backdrop.
Studios near the shrine offer kimono rental, dressing assistance, and hair/makeup services. This experience is particularly recommended for families wanting to create special memories.
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Schedule: Year-round
Access: 7-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station (JR Yamanote Line, Seibu Shinjuku Line, Subway Tozai Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.shinjyuku-hikawa.jp/
Tokyo Marathon
Source: ASICS
The Tokyo Marathon, Japan's largest citizen marathon, is held annually on a Sunday in February or March. The 2026 event, scheduled during the major Shinjuku Event season in March 2026, is expected to attract approximately 38,000 runners from around the world.
The course starts at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Tokyo Tocho), passes through tourist spots like Asakusa and Ginza, and finishes at Tokyo Station.
A highlight is the 20 cheering spots along the course. Various groups energize the event with dance, music, and traditional performances under the theme of "CHEER." The festival-like atmosphere shared with locals makes this event particularly appealing.
Consider touring the tourist spots while cheering along the marathon course.
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Date: March 2, 2026
Access: 10-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station West Exit (Start point)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.marathon.tokyo/
Also Recommended: Participating in "TOKYO MARATHON 2026 RUNS: INTO KK"
Source:Official website
TOKYO MARATHON 2026 RUNS: INTO KK is an event held as a pre-race festival to build excitement for the Tokyo Marathon. Using part of the "KK Line (Tokyo Expressway)," which is normally not open to runners, individuals and groups can take on challenges such as the "1 Mile Race" and "Half Marathon Relay."
I once participated with a group of friends, and running while catching glimpses of the expressway scenery—usually only seen from inside a car—was such a unique experience that I felt exhilarated the entire way through.
The event welcomes not only runners participating in the Tokyo Marathon but also children who are not accustomed to running. Even if you're not confident in your running abilities, why not give it a try as a memorable part of your trip?
Advance registration is required to participate, so be sure to apply through the website.
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Date: February 27-28, 2026
Access: 3-minute walk from Ginza-itchome Station on the Yurakucho Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://runsintokk.com/
Special Experiences to Enjoy at Shinjuku Events in March 2026
TOKYO outside Festival
Source:Instagram
TOKYO outside Festival is an urban experience event held at Shinjuku Central Park, where you can easily enjoy outdoor activities right in the heart of the city.
At the venue, you can experience camping and workshops, view and purchase the latest camping gear and tents, and enjoy outdoor cuisine such as sausages—making it popular among both children and adults for its diverse range of content.
When I visited with my nephew, who had never shown interest in the outdoors before, he actually got to touch and experience camping equipment firsthand, and I was amazed to see him develop an interest in outdoor activities!
Since the event is run by outdoor professionals, even beginners can safely and casually enjoy the fun of outdoor activities with peace of mind!
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Date: March 28-29, 2026
Access: 5-minute walk from Nishi-Shinjuku Station on the Marunouchi Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://outside-festa.com/
Yayoi Kusama Exhibition: The Fighting Woman / Girl Who Paints
Source:Official website
Yayoi Kusama Exhibition: The Fighting Woman / Girl Who Paints is an exhibition that explores two different identities of Yayoi Kusama through paintings and sculptures, focusing on "The Fighting Woman," which showcases the aggressive nature of her early works, and "Girl Who Paints," which conveys the humor found in her recent works.
The highlight of the exhibition is the world-premiere small mirror room. The moment you step into this mirror room, where the entire space is made of mirrors, you feel an immersive sensation as if you've entered the artwork itself—I truly enjoyed this extraordinary experience.
This unique experience, available only here, is sure to become an unforgettable memory!
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Date: October 16, 2025 – March 8, 2026
Access: Approximately 6-minute walk from Ushigome-yanagicho Station on the Oedo Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://yayoikusamamuseum.jp/home/
Yayoi Kusama Museum Features Themed Exhibitions That Change Each Season
Source:Official website
Yayoi Kusama Museum is characterized by its special exhibitions that change themes with each exhibition period.
These exhibitions display works that explore diverse themes such as "Self-Obliteration," "Infinity," "Pumpkins," and "Color" from Yayoi Kusama's unique perspective. Some exhibitions include new works and previously unreleased pieces, making it a sure way to discover new aspects of Yayoi Kusama's appeal.
The museum operates on a complete reservation system with designated date and time slots, and since capacity is limited, you can enjoy viewing the artworks at your own pace without crowds—another attractive feature.
If your travel plans change and you end up visiting during a different period, why not look up what events are being held at that time and enjoy them?
Special Seasonal Experiences in Shinjuku - March
Shinjuku Central Park Spring Festival
Source: Official website
The Shinjuku Central Park Spring Festival, held in Shinjuku Central Park (often called an urban oasis), is a festival where visitors can enjoy interacting with animals and playing games.
At the event, you can interact with animals such as rabbits, sheep, and guinea pigs in a mini petting zoo. Other highlights include family-friendly activities like yarn knitting experiences and archery games.
During the event, visitors can also enjoy cherry blossom viewing in Shinjuku Central Park. While you can see the commonly found light pink cherry blossoms in Japan, what makes this location special is the presence of deep pink cherry blossoms. We encourage you to enjoy both the festival and cherry blossom viewing.
This event is highly recommended for families looking for enjoyable activities.
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Date: March 12, 2025 (2025 event information)
Access: About 10 minutes walk from JR, Odakyu Line, or Keio Line Shinjuku Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://shinjukuchuo-park.jp/events/event/2024/03/14/%E6%96%B0%E5%AE%BF%E4%B8%AD%E5%A4%AE%E5%85%AC%E5%9C%92%E3%80%80%E6%98%A5%E3%81%BE%E3%81%A4%E3%82%8A-2/ (2024 event information)
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is the enjoyment of cherry blossoms in parks and shrines. The blossoms last only about two weeks, during which many people enjoy picnics and photo sessions under the cherry trees.
During daytime, you can enjoy pink cherry blossoms against the blue sky, while illuminated locations offer magical nighttime views.
I personally enjoy having picnics under the cherry trees. For those wanting to experience this fleeting natural spectacle that's available for just two weeks during Japanese spring, Hanami is highly recommended.
I'll translate the articles about the Shinjuku March 2026 Events while maintaining all the important details and links.
Shinjuku Gyoen Special Spring Opening
Source: Official website
Shinjuku Gyoen opens daily for one month starting March 25th to allow visitors to enjoy cherry blossom viewing. The garden features approximately 70 varieties and 900 cherry trees, offering visitors the chance to appreciate different types of cherry blossoms from mid-February to late April.
Shinjuku Gyoen boasts a beautiful Japanese garden that was once a cherry blossom viewing spot for the Imperial family. A highlight is the opportunity to enjoy cherry blossoms in a serene atmosphere. One of my favorite aspects is that the cherry trees are scattered throughout the garden, allowing visitors to appreciate them without feeling crowded.
During the special opening period, five shops within the garden sell cherry blossom-themed sweets, which are definitely worth checking out. This location is highly recommended for those who want to see various cherry blossom varieties or enjoy them in a peaceful setting.
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Dates: The 2026 bloom forecast is March 25, with full bloom expected on April 1
Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station on Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, or 10-minute walk from JR/Keio/Odakyu Shinjuku Station South Exit
Admission: Adults ¥500, Seniors (65+) ¥250, High School Students and above ¥250, Junior High School Students and below Free
Website: https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/
Meiji Jingu Gaien
Source: WEATHER NEWS
Meiji Jingu Gaien is an area where visitors can enjoy an avenue of approximately 340 cherry trees. The main street is often called the "Cherry Blossom Tunnel" as both sides of the road are completely lined with cherry trees. With no high-rise buildings nearby, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms against the sky.
My recommendation is to photograph the cherry blossoms with the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery (Shotoku Kinen Kaigakan) in the background. The contrast between the historical beige building and the pink cherry blossoms creates perfect photo opportunities.
The area becomes very crowded between 10 AM and 4 PM during the cherry blossom season, so early morning visits before 10 AM are recommended for those who want to enjoy a quieter experience. Meiji Jingu Gaien is perfect for those who want to see cherry blossom-lined streets or enjoy photography.
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Dates: The 2026 bloom forecast is March 25, with full bloom expected on April 2
Access: 4-minute walk from Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station on Toei Oedo Line, or 8-minute walk from Shinanomachi Station on JR Chuo-Sobu Line
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.meijijingugaien.jp/
Yoyogi Park
Source: Google Maps
Yoyogi Park is a spacious park in central Tokyo featuring approximately 700 cherry trees. Just a short distance from the vibrant Shinjuku area, where various events are scheduled for March 2026, the park offers a peaceful retreat.
The cherry blossoms are typically in full bloom from late March to early April, with over five different varieties to admire. One of the highlights is the area around the fountain in the central plaza, where cherry trees encircle the water feature, creating an elegant atmosphere for viewers.
Among various cherry blossom viewing spots, Yoyogi Park is particularly famous as a picnic destination. From my personal experience, having a picnic here not only allows you to view the cherry blossoms up close but also offers an escape from the urban bustle.
Yoyogi Park provides regular updates about the cherry blossom conditions on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, so be sure to check before visiting. It's highly recommended for those who want to have a picnic or enjoy cherry blossom viewing in a natural setting.
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Date: The 2026 bloom forecast is March 25, with full bloom expected on March 31
Access: 3-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station (Yamanote Line) or Tokyo Metro Yoyogi-koen Station (Chiyoda Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/yoyogi/index.html
In March, Shinjuku increasingly feels like spring, bringing new energy to the entire district. As temperatures rise from winter to spring in Japan, more people venture out into the streets, filling the neighborhood with a bright and cheerful atmosphere.
If you're visiting Shinjuku in March, try going on a food tour to discover the truly beloved spots in this vibrant district. Join a local guide for some bar and food hopping around the area, and you'll understand why I come here almost every day.
Recommended Tours
・Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
・Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Sotobori Park
Source: Google Maps
Sotobori Park features a cherry blossom-lined path stretching approximately 2 kilometers between JR Iidabashi Station and Yotsuya Station.
The park is home to two varieties of cherry trees, with about 200 trees in total. A notable feature is the walking path that allows visitors to enjoy cherry blossom viewing while strolling. The path is set apart from the road, creating a peaceful viewing environment.
The highlight of Sotobori Park's cherry blossoms is their nighttime illumination. The sight of the pale pink-lit blossoms reflecting on the water surface creates a magical atmosphere. During my visit, the quiet surroundings enhanced the romantic ambiance.
This park is perfect for those who want to enjoy cherry blossoms while taking a walk or experience the illuminated night viewing.
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Date: The 2026 bloom forecast is March 26, with full bloom expected on March 31
Access: 3-minute walk from Yotsuya Station's Yotsuya Exit, or immediately accessible from JR Iidabashi Station's West Exit
Admission: Free
Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/app/spot/detail/274
Toyama Park
Source:Google Maps
Toyama Park is divided into the "Hakone Mountain Area" and "Okubo Area" by Meiji-dori Street. In the "Hakone Mountain Area," you can see approximately 330 cherry trees, primarily Somei Yoshino, along with Yamazakura and Oshimazakura varieties.
My recommended spot for cherry blossom viewing is the view from the summit of "Hakone Mountain Area," which is the highest mountain within the Yamanote Line (the area inside the JR Yamanote Line loop). From the summit, you can see Shinjuku's skyscraper skyline together with the cherry blossoms, allowing you to fully enjoy an urban-style hanami experience.
After climbing to the summit, you can receive a "Summit Certificate" at the Toyama Park Service Center in the "Okubo Area" as proof of your climb, so why not take it home as a travel souvenir?
The park has easy-to-walk pathways and grassy open spaces, so why not enjoy the cherry blossoms while taking a stroll or having a picnic in the plaza?
The 2026 bloom forecast is March 25th, with full bloom expected on April 1st.
This is a wonderful Shinjuku Event March 2026 destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts.
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: 6-minute walk from Nishi-Waseda Station on the Fukutoshin Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/toyama/index.html
Kanda Josui Park
Source:Google Maps
Kanda Josui Park is a long, narrow park stretching approximately 600m along the Kanda River, featuring beautiful rows of about 130 Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted on both sides. It has been selected as one of the "Green Shinjuku 30" (30 verdant spots designated by Shinjuku Ward that are beloved by residents and represent the essence of Shinjuku).
I once visited when the cherry blossoms had passed their peak and were beginning to fall. With each gust of wind, I could enjoy the "cherry blossom petals falling like snow" dancing in the air, as well as the scenic view of fallen petals floating on the river's surface, allowing me to fully savor the charm of spring in Japan.
While the view from the road is beautiful, I recommend viewing from a bridge where you can see the cherry trees on both sides simultaneously.
Along the riverside, there are playground equipment and benches, so take your time enjoying the cherry tree-lined path while taking breaks.
The 2026 bloom forecast is March 26th, with full bloom expected on April 1st.
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: 7-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station on the Sobu Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.city.shinjuku.lg.jp/seikatsu/midori01_002042.html
Hanazono Shrine
Source:Google Maps
Hanazono Shrine is a historic shrine that has protected Shinjuku since before the Edo period. Despite being located in one of Tokyo's most bustling entertainment districts, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in a surprisingly tranquil atmosphere.
If you want to photograph the cherry blossoms at Hanazono Shrine, I recommend a composition with the main hall in the center and cherry trees framing it on both sides. The vivid vermillion of the shrine building and the soft pink of the cherry blossoms complement each other beautifully, creating a stunning photograph.
At night, the cherry blossoms are illuminated by lanterns (traditional Japanese lighting fixtures) along the approach path, transforming the space into a mystical setting. I visited after having dinner in Shinjuku and thoroughly enjoyed the atmospheric nighttime cherry blossom viewing at the shrine.
The shrine grounds are accessible 24 hours a day, so feel free to stop by during your Shinjuku sightseeing or shopping.
The 2026 bloom forecast is March 26th, with full bloom expected on March 31st.
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: Directly accessible from Shinjuku-sanchome Station on various lines
Admission: Free
Website: http://hanazono-jinja.or.jp/
Cherry Blossom Events Held in March 2026 in Areas Easily Accessible from Shinjuku Are Also Recommended
Numerous cherry blossom-related events are held in areas easily accessible from Shinjuku, including Nakameguro, Shibuya, and Ueno. These locations are quickly reachable from Shinjuku by train or bus, so going on a tour of cherry blossom events to fully experience spring in Japan is highly recommended.
Consider adding these to your Shinjuku Event March 2026 itinerary.
Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival
The Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival is held when the cherry tree-lined path along the approximately 4km Meguro River reaches its peak bloom.
During the day, you can enjoy the vibrant pink cherry blossoms, and at night, the illuminated cherry blossoms along with bonbori (traditional Japanese lanterns) create a fantastic atmosphere, offering different scenery between day and night.
My recommendation is the spot where the branches of approximately 800 cherry trees planted on both sides overlap above the river, creating a "cherry blossom tunnel" effect. The sight of cherry blossoms filling the space above the river at full bloom is absolutely breathtaking!
The unique shops and stylish cafes lining the Meguro River offer takeaway items that can be eaten with one hand, so why not enjoy strolling while snacking?
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: 3-minute walk from Nakameguro Station
Admission: Free
Website: None
Shibuya Sakuraoka Cherry Blossom Festival
Source:Shibuya Kyoueikai
The Shibuya Sakuraoka Cherry Blossom Festival is a cherry blossom-themed festival held in the Sakuraoka area near Shibuya Station's west exit. At the festival, you can see approximately 30 Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted along the roughly 150m Sakura-zaka slope, as well as enjoy live performances and food events at Shibuya Sakura Stage, a complex housing restaurants and offices.
I joined the festival in the afternoon, watched band performances at Shibuya Sakura Stage, then enjoyed the illuminated cherry blossoms on Sakura-zaka while sipping a drink I had purchased at a cafe.
Since the events held during the festival vary by day, I recommend checking the official website before visiting.
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.shibuya-sakura-stage.com/eventtopics/detail/?cd=000160 (2025 website)
Chiyoda City Sakura Festival
Source:VISIT Chiyoda
The Chiyoda City Sakura Festival is a collective term for various cherry blossom viewing events held throughout Chiyoda Ward to coincide with the cherry blossom season.
My recommended cherry blossom viewing spot is "Chidorigafuchi Greenway," one of Tokyo's premier cherry blossom destinations. The cherry tree-lined path at "Chidorigafuchi Greenway" extends approximately 700m, and when illuminated after sunset, you can enjoy a mystical scenery.
During the illumination period, Chidorigafuchi Boat Pier operates at night, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms from the water.
The event features attractive programs such as puzzle-solving games you can participate in while visiting tourist attractions and cherry blossom spots within the ward, as well as campaigns offering discounted access to facilities in the ward.
Why not spend a full day enjoying Chiyoda Ward while cherry blossom viewing?
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: Varies by event
Admission: Free
Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/sakura/ (2025 website)
Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival
Source:TAITO Odekake Navi
The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is held at "Ueno Park," which has been cherished as a cherry blossom destination for approximately 400 years and has been selected as one of Japan's "100 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots."
At "Ueno Park," you can see approximately 800 cherry trees, primarily Somei Yoshino, including varieties that originated at Ueno Park such as Komatsu Otome and Ueno Shirayuki Shidare.
During the festival period, events such as the "plant market," "Outdoor Antique Fair," and "Ueno Sakura Festa" are also held simultaneously, creating a lively atmosphere. I enjoyed treasure hunting at the "Outdoor Antique Fair" while cherry blossom viewing.
Numerous food stalls offering perfect snacks for eating while walking are set up within the park, allowing you to comprehensively enjoy cherry blossoms, shopping, and food.
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Date: Mid-March to early April 2026
Access: 2-minute walk from Ueno Station
Admission: Free
Website: None
Bokutei Cherry Blossom Festival
Source:Sumida City
The Bokutei Cherry Blossom Festival allows you to view the cherry tree-lined path planted by Tokugawa Yoshimune (the 8th Shogun of the Tokugawa family) during the Edo period, stretching from Azuma Bridge to around Sakura Bridge.
The collaboration of 343 cherry trees blooming along approximately 1km of the riverside with Tokyo Skytree is renowned as a spectacular view and has been selected as one of Japan's "100 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots."
At the festival, you can enjoy food stalls run by local neighborhood associations, "Mukojima Geisha Teahouse" where you can receive hospitality from Mukojima Geisha, and the "Sumida Ward Premium Products and Famous Shops Association" featuring local specialties.
While it's wonderful to see the cherry blossoms up close while strolling along the riverside, I recommend viewing the cherry blossoms from a yakatabune (traditional Japanese boat). You can admire the beautiful cherry tree-lined path from the water while avoiding crowds, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed cherry blossom viewing experience.
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Date: Late March to early April 2026
Access: 5 minutes from Asakusa Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://visit-sumida.jp/event/sakuramatsuri2025/ (2025 website)
