Yanaka March 2026: 10+ Cherry Blossom Spots & Spring Events in Tokyo's Old Town
Since moving to a neighborhood Shibuya in 2024, I've been visiting many cities in Tokyo including Yanaka Ginza everyday to explore its appeal and discovered 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 enjoy sightseeing spots and Japanese traditional culture. 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 experience the retro atmosphere and authentic Japanese charm of Yanaka Ginza, join the "Yanaka Historical Walking Tour in Tokyo's Old Town." A local guide will show you the most recommended spots in the Yanaka area, where historical sites are scattered throughout.
For those who love retro neighborhoods, we also recommend these two tours. Both can be enjoyed in the towns adjacent to Yanaka, and you can fully experience their charm simply by following guides who know these streets inside and out.
・Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour
・All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno
We hope you'll have a wonderful time experiencing everything retro towns have to offer by joining a Magical Trip tour!
Introduction
Yanaka is a shitamachi (downtown) area in Tokyo, accessible from Shinjuku. In March, Tokyo's Yanaka experiences average temperatures between 7°C-11°C. As a famous cherry blossom destination, Yanaka's sakura begins blooming in March, reaching peak bloom in late March.
Yanaka Ginza is a retro downtown area preserving its historical townscape. The area features numerous small temples and the renowned Nezu Shrine. The "Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street" is famous as a retro shopping destination, hosting charming small restaurants and boutiques.
Various events are held around Yanaka Ginza in March 2026. This article introduces the major "Tsutsuji (Azalea) Festival" starting in late March, antique markets, and scenic cherry blossom spots unique to March.
We've compiled basic event information and access details. For those planning to visit Tokyo or already here, we also introduce tours exploring Yanaka and popular nearby attractions.
2026 Year-round Event Schedule in Yanaka↓
・Yanaka: List of Events & Festivals for 2026
sena kanda
Special March Experiences "Yanaka Antique Market" is Recommended!
Source:Yahoo! News
Yanaka Antique Market
Location: Enmei-in Temple (400+ years old), 1-minute walk from Yanaka Ginza
Features:
- Vintage kimonos
- Japanese tableware
- Unique cat-themed vintage items
- International antiques from France and England
Event Details: March 7-8, 2026
Time: 10:00-16:00
Access:
- 3 minutes walk from Nippori Station West Exit (Yanaka direction)
- 1 minute walk from Yanaka Ginza
- 10 minutes walk from Sendagi Station Exit 2
Location: Nichiren-shu Hojuzan Enmei-in Temple Parking lot
Admission: Free
Links:
Website: https://www.yanaka-antique-market.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yanaka.antique/
March in Tokyo brings increasingly warm days, making it one of the best seasons for walking and cycling tours. If you're planning to visit Tokyo in March, consider joining a tour with a local guide who can show you around neighborhoods that capture Tokyo's traditional downtown charm.
Magical Trip offers tours not only in Yanaka but also in Asakusa and along the Sumida River, where you can enjoy nature and culture alongside local residents.
・Yanaka Historical Walking Tour in Tokyo's Old Town
・5-Hour Tokyo & Edo Hidden Gem Bike Tour with Lunch
If You Visit Yanaka in March, Explore the Famous Cherry Blossom Spots
In Tokyo, March is cherry blossom season. In Japan, when spring arrives and cherry blossoms begin to bloom, people go out for "Ohanami" (flower viewing) to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
During Ohanami, people visit beautiful cherry blossom spots to hold outdoor parties or leisurely stroll beneath the cherry trees to appreciate the flowers. In recent years, taking beautiful photos of cherry blossoms and posting them on social media has also become popular.
Yanaka is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and has several famous Ohanami spots. Here are four cherry blossom spots that you can enjoy precisely because of Yanaka's historical setting, including traditional cemeteries and temples. If you're looking for a Yanaka Event in March 2026, these cherry blossom destinations offer an authentic Tokyo spring experience.
Yanaka Cemetery
Yanaka Cemetery is a collective burial ground in Yanaka. It's known for housing graves of famous Japanese literary figures and artists, and is also a very famous cherry blossom spot.
The most beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot is "Sakura Street" in the center of Yanaka Cemetery. Cherry trees are planted on both sides of the road, creating a cherry tree avenue that continues for about 250m. Walking through this pink tunnel made of cherry blossoms is a magical experience unique to March in Japan.
Additionally, while being a famous cherry blossom spot, Yanaka Cemetery maintains a very quiet environment. Traditional hanami parties under the cherry trees are prohibited here. As a result, it's very quiet and peaceful, with moderate foot traffic, allowing for relaxed cherry blossom appreciation.
The best viewing time for cherry blossoms at Yanaka Cemetery starts from mid-March. The grounds are very spacious, and being surrounded by cherry trees means you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms everywhere, not just on "Sakura Street." Please take your time to explore.
Information:
- Dates: (Cherry Blossom Bloom) Mid-March to Early April 2026
- Access: 5-minute walk from Nippori Station South Exit
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/reien/park/index073.html
Chomyo-ji Temple
Source:Google Maps
Chomyo-ji is a temple in Yanaka that has been cherished by locals for many years.
The temple grounds preserve "Hatsune Forest," which has been in Yanaka since ancient times, and is known as a nature-rich spot. Walking slowly through the grounds, you can feel traces of Yanaka's verdant past from hundreds of years ago.
Furthermore, Chomyo-ji features an elegant and beautiful weeping cherry tree. When I looked up at this massive weeping cherry tree, cherry petals were falling like a shower. Located in front of the main hall, it's about 50 years old. Due to its impressive size, it's a famous cherry tree in Yanaka.
Chomyo-ji is located one street behind Yanaka's main street. During cherry blossom season, it's popular among international tourists. Don't miss seeing this large weeping cherry tree, rated as Yanaka's finest.
Information:
- Dates: (Cherry Blossom Bloom) Mid-March to Early April 2026
- Access: 5-minute walk from Nippori Station North Gate West Exit or 5-minute walk from Sendagi Station Exit 2
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://366jumokuso.jp/jiin/chomyoji/
Hongyo-ji Temple
Source:Google Maps
Located near Chomei-ji Temple, Hongyo-ji was historically known as "Moon-viewing Temple" due to its hilltop location perfect for viewing the moon. Though now surrounded by high-rises, it represents Yanaka's transformation from natural landscape to vibrant retro downtown.
Three large weeping cherry trees grace the temple grounds, siblings to those at Chomei-ji. Magnolias and yellow Cornus officinalis flowers bloom beneath, creating a soul-soothing spring landscape. The temple has deep connections to Japanese culture, with historic sites linked to the famous haiku poet Kobayashi Issa.
<Information>
Cherry Blossom Season: Mid-March to Early April 2026
Access: 2-minute walk from Nippori Station North Exit (West Side)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.city.arakawa.tokyo.jp/a022/shisetsuannai/jinja/nippori002.html
Zensho-ji Temple
Source:Google Maps
This tranquil temple, surrounded by office buildings and high-rise apartments, has strong historical ties to the Tokugawa shogunate from when Tokyo was called Edo, about 350 years ago. It houses the "Fuji Daikokuten Statue," a Buddhist stone statue over 500 years old.
Two stunning weeping cherry trees create a striking contrast against modern Tokyo skyscrapers and traditional temple gates. The peaceful atmosphere allows visitors to fully appreciate the swaying branches of the cherry blossoms without crowds.
The famous "Habue-dango" shop in front of the temple offers refined sweet dumplings, perfect after viewing the cherry blossoms.
<Information>
Cherry Blossom Season: Mid-March to Early April 2026
Access: 4-minute walk from Nippori Station Ogu-bashi Exit
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.zensyouji.website/
Recommended Cherry Blossom Spots Near Yanaka to Visit During Your Walk
Ueno Park
Ueno Park, known as Japan's first urban park, is one of Tokyo's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. The artistic beauty of approximately 800 cherry trees in full bloom is stunning, and every year many people visit the park to see the beautiful blossoms.
At night, illumination events are held, so enjoying the fantastical cherry blossoms that look different from daytime is also recommended. Under the cherry trees, a uniquely Japanese event called Hanami takes place, where people enjoy sake while viewing the cherry blossoms, filling the park with a festive atmosphere.
During the cherry blossom season, the Ueno Sakura Festival is held in the park. Throughout the festival period, various events including food stalls and an Antique Market are held, so if you're visiting Tokyo during cherry blossom season, be sure to stop by.
<Information>
Date: (Cherry blossom season) Late March to early April 2026
Access: 2-minute walk from JR or Tokyo Metro Ueno Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno
Yushima Tenmangu Shrine
Yushima Tenjin, known as a shrine famous for its beautiful plum blossoms, holds a Plum Festival from early February to March each year when the flowers begin to bloom. Yushima Tenjin, with approximately 300 plum trees planted on its grounds, has been known as a famous plum blossom spot since the Edo period.
The festival, which lasts about one month, features local product exhibitions and stage events. On stage, you can see various performances including Rakugo, a traditional Japanese performing art, and dances from countries around the world.
You can also listen to performances of Shakuhachi and Koto, instruments uniquely known as traditional Japanese instruments, making this festival highly recommended if you want to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. I visit this festival every year and am captivated by the beautiful plum blossoms.
<Information>
Date: (Plum blossom season) Early February to early March
Access: 2-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Yushima Station, 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno-Hirokoji Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.yushimatenjin.or.jp/pc/ume/R8/index.htm
Koishikawa Korakuen
Koishikawa Korakuen is one of Tokyo's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. The Weeping Cherry Blossoms near the west gate have been beloved since the Edo period and reach full bloom about one week earlier than other cherry trees.
Unlike Ueno Park, Koishikawa Korakuen is a paid facility, so you cannot spread blankets on the grounds to view the cherry blossoms. However, the garden is so quiet that you wouldn't believe you're in the middle of the city, making it a recommended place to fully enjoy a beautiful Japanese garden.
Inside the garden, there is a building with a Thatched Roof called Kantokutei, where you can enjoy Matcha and lunch. If you want to appreciate beautiful cherry blossoms and a Japanese garden, why not visit Koishikawa Korakuen?
<Information>
Date: (Cherry blossom season) Mid-March to early April
Access: 6-minute walk from JR Sobu Line Suidobashi Station, 6-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Namboku Line
Admission: 300 yen
Website: None
Cherry Blossom Festivals Held in Towns Adjacent to Yanaka Offer Food Stalls and Stage Events in Addition to Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossom festivals held during the blooming season feature food stalls and stage events at famous cherry blossom spots, attracting many visitors.
From here, we will explain in detail the cherry blossom festivals held around Yanaka. If you want to enjoy a lively festival along with cherry blossoms, please use this as a reference. These festivals make for perfect Yanaka Event March 2026 experiences when exploring this charming area of Tokyo.
Ueno Sakura Matsuri
Source:TAITO Odekake Navi
Ueno Sakura Matsuri is a festival held at Ueno Park, one of Tokyo's most famous cherry blossom spots. Centered around the cherry blossom avenue where approximately 800 cherry trees bloom in profusion, many food stalls selling local cuisine from all over Japan are set up during the event period.
Additionally, on stages within the park, events featuring music, dance, and other performances are held. At night, illumination using Lanterns is carried out, and the cherry blossoms lit by the Lantern light are so beautiful that you'll surely lose track of time gazing at them.
I also visit Ueno Park every year during cherry blossom season and am captivated by the beautiful blossoms. If you want to thoroughly enjoy the cherry blossoms of historic Ueno Park, Ueno Sakura Matsuri is a highly recommended event.
<Information>
Date: Mid-March to mid-April 2026
Access: 2-minute walk from JR Ueno Station, 1-minute walk from Keisei Main Line Keisei Ueno Station, 4-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Ginza Line Ueno Station
Admission: Free
Website: None
Chiyoda Sakura Matsuri
Source:VISIT Chiyoda
Chiyoda Sakura Matsuri is a cherry blossom festival held around Chidorigafuchi, one of Tokyo's most famous cherry blossom spots. Chidorigafuchi, with approximately 140 cherry trees planted along the moat, is famous for its beautiful, carpet-like artistic cherry blossoms that bloom in spring.
During the festival period, various shops line the streets, allowing you to enjoy food while appreciating the cherry blossoms. You can also view the cherry blossoms from boats on the moat, and during the festival, many people enjoy the blossoms while riding boats to see them up close.
At night, illumination is also held, and the fantastical scene different from daytime is simply breathtaking. Located in the center of Tokyo with excellent access, be sure to visit if you're in Tokyo during cherry blossom season.
<Information>
Date: Mid-March to mid-April 2026
Access: 5-minute walk from Subway Kudanshita Station Exit 2, 5-minute walk from Subway Hanzomon Line Exit 5
Admission: Free
Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/sakura/
Bokutei Sakura Matsuri
Source:Sumida City
A cherry blossom festival is held at Sumida Park near Tokyo Sky Tree during cherry blossom season. Sumida Park has long been known as a famous cherry blossom spot, and in spring, you can enjoy the beautiful sight of cherry blossoms blooming along the Sumida River.
The festival is held for about one month starting from mid-March, with various events planned. Events include a ceremony where Geisha serve tea and shops selling local products from Sumida Ward, offering a rich variety of content.
During the festival period, cherry blossom illumination is also held at night. The combination with nearby Tokyo Sky Tree is spectacular, and I visit every cherry blossom season without fail, completely absorbed in enjoying the beauty of the blossoms.
<Information>
Date: Mid-March to mid-April 2026
Access: 7-minute walk from Toei Subway Asakusa Line Honjo-Azumabashi Station
Admission: Free
Website: None
Experience Yanaka to the Fullest with a Local Guide Tour!
We've introduced the highlights of March events and spots in the charming downtown Yanaka. However, Yanaka's appeal runs deep, and first-time visitors can't fully experience it just by attending events. We recommend joining a walking tour to explore the town leisurely with a guide.
The Yanaka Historical Walking Tour includes a visit to Nezu Shrine, known for its beautiful azalea garden. Afterward, you'll explore Yanaka's preserved historic district. The tour features stops at traditional house cafes and concludes at the famous Yanaka Ginza shopping street for local delicacies.
A highlight of this March 2026 tour is painting your own lucky cat statue at a traditional house café. Yanaka, historically home to cats living around small temples, is known as the "Town of Cats." Paint your own patterns and colors on a fortune-bringing cat statue – a wonderful memento of your Yanaka visit.
Yanaka Ginza shopping street is a treasure trove of downtown cuisine. I recommend trying the beloved street food "croquettes" (korokke). Yanaka's exceptional croquettes attract visitors from far and wide.
The area combines shrines, temples, historic streets, charming shops, cafes, and fantastic food. Join the tour to deeply experience these various attractions.
Meeting Point: Outside Exit 1, Tokyo Metro Nezu Station
Address: 1-1 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Tour Area: Yanaka
Start Time: 13:30
Two Recommended Tours to Enjoy the Retro Streets Around Yanaka with Local Guides
The historic downtown area extends beyond Yanaka. Particularly popular nearby areas include Asakusa, home to the famous Sensoji Temple, and Ueno with its vibrant nightlife district.
Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour
When visiting Yanaka, extend your journey to Asakusa, one of Tokyo's most popular tourist destinations. In March 2026, this guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Asakusa's culture and traditions.
The tour begins at Sensoji Temple, Asakusa's iconic landmark, where you can enjoy early spring cherry blossoms in March. Following this, experience traditional matcha preparation at a historic teahouse. The tour concludes with lunch featuring "Monjayaki," a beloved dish of downtown Tokyo.
The highlight is the tea ceremony experience in Asakusa's elegant tea house. Stepping from the bustling streets into the tearoom reveals a serene sanctuary. Here, you'll prepare and enjoy premium grade matcha. It's a uniquely Japanese moment of tranquility, perfectly complementing the vibrant Yanaka Event festivities happening in March 2026.
While both Asakusa and Yanaka share downtown roots, each offers distinct charms. Consider experiencing Asakusa's energetic atmosphere as a contrast to Yanaka's peaceful ambiance.
Meeting point: In front of Kaminarimon Police Box, 1-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Tour area: Asakusa
Start time: 11:00
All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno
This evening tour offers a nightlife experience in Ueno, conveniently located near Yanaka.
Visit two locally-beloved bars, starting with a popular street-side establishment. Enjoy four dishes including yakitori and kushikatsu - downtown Tokyo favorites - with unlimited alcoholic beverages.
The tour showcases Ueno's charm as a local nightlife destination. Your guide leads you through vibrant food stalls and carefully selected establishments. March brings extra excitement with cherry blossom viewing season, particularly energetic after the Yanaka Event March 2026 festivities.
Learn izakaya (Japanese pub) etiquette from your guide. These welcoming establishments offer opportunities to interact with locals. Join this tour for an authentic night out experience.
Meeting point: Ueno Station Hirokoji Exit, in front of Ueno Object, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Tour area: Ueno
Start time: 18:00
