Shibuya in April 2025: Highlights, Events & Festivals
I moved to Shibuya in 2024. While exploring the area, I discovered that Shibuya has numerous shrines, temples, and historical spots that are perfect for celebrating Japanese traditional Events in February like "Setsubun". As we enter January 2025, I've compiled this article with my rediscovered spots ideal for February visits in Shibuya, along with the latest 2025 updates.
Another reason for writing this is to introduce the increasingly popular Magical Trip tours. For those interested in Shibuya, I highly recommend the "Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo." Other than that, Magical trip has tour which ranked #1 among all TripAdvisor tours in 2024.（"Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku"）
I've participated in both tours, and I can say that the "Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo" is just as impressive as the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku." If you want to efficiently experience and deeply enjoy Shibuya's diverse cultural landscape, I highly recommend joining this tour.
Introduction
In Japan, April marks the beginning of many new chapters. As many people excitedly head to their new schools and workplaces, the streets are filled with a vibrant atmosphere.
The average temperature in Tokyo during April is around 15°C (59°F), making it a comfortable climate. Even during early mornings or after sunset, it's pleasant to walk outside with just a light jacket.
While Shibuya, one of Tokyo's most densely populated areas, is known for its large commercial facilities near the station, you'll be surprised to find numerous parks and outdoor rest areas throughout the neighborhood.
Taking a leisurely stroll might reward you with encounters with spring flora and fauna.
In this article, we'll introduce events happening in Shibuya in April and unique ways to enjoy Shibuya during spring.
We'll share the characteristics of each event and tips for experiencing the deeper side of Shibuya, so please use this as your reference.
2025 Year-round Event Schedule in Shibuya↓
・Shibuya: List of Events & Festivals for 2025
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Limited Events in Shibuya During April
There aren't many events held in Shibuya during April. Therefore, visitors planning to explore Shibuya in spring should research event information in advance to avoid missing any opportunities.
However, Shibuya's excellent transportation network of trains and buses makes it easy to travel. You can easily extend your journey to participate in events held in other areas of Tokyo.
Experience how Japanese people spend their spring through local events.
Meiji Shrine Spring Festival - Shibuya's Biggest April Event (Late April to Early May 2025)
Source:Official website
The Meiji Shrine Spring Festival is Shibuya's largest event in April 2025.
This festival will be held at Meiji Shrine for three days: Saturday, April 27th, Thursday, May 2nd, and Friday, May 3rd, 2025.
Many people from Japan and abroad gather to watch traditional Japanese performing arts presented in the prestigious shrine setting.
The performances include Bugaku (dance movements synchronized with drum rhythms), Noh (masked performers in kimono acting with songs), and Kyogen (comic theater), all representing Japan's ancient performing arts traditions.
The spring festival, held at a shrine built over 100 years ago, has a uniquely Japanese atmosphere that even foreign tourists who don't understand the songs or dialogues can thoroughly enjoy.
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Schedule:
April 27 (Sat) 11:00~ Bugaku
May 2 (Thu) 11:45~ Noh and Kyogen
May 2 (Thu) 15:45~ Japanese Music and Dance
May 3 (Fri) 9:00~ Archery Tournament
May 3 (Fri) 11:30~ Folk Performing Arts
May 3 (Fri) 12:00~ Traditional String Music
May 3 (Fri) 14:30~ Satsuma Biwa Performance
Access: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station or Meiji-jingumae Station (JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/spring_taisai/
3 Ways to Enjoy Shibuya in April 2025
If you're visiting Shibuya in April 2025, join the cherry blossom events that will take place! While Shibuya is known for its commercial facilities and office buildings, there are surprisingly many cherry blossom viewing spots scattered throughout the area.
Additionally, thanks to Shibuya's excellent transportation connections, you can easily explore events in other parts of Tokyo while staying in the area.
For those interested in both traditional and modern Japanese culture, we recommend joining a tour with a local guide. Walking through the streets with a knowledgeable local guide will help you gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture.
Recommended Cherry Blossom Spots in Shibuya for April 2025
Shibuya Sakuragaoka Sakura Festival
Source:SHIBUYA +FUN PROJECT
The Shibuya Sakuragaoka Sakura Festival is held from late March to early April. The highlight at Shibuya Sakuragaoka is the tunnel of Someiyoshino cherry trees (a popular Japanese cherry blossom variety) extending their branches from the roadside over the street.
The magical nighttime illumination is particularly stunning, creating an enchanting spring evening atmosphere that will surely move you. Take Instagram-worthy photos with the beautifully pink-tinted scenery as your backdrop.
The exact festival dates for the Shibuya Sakuragaoka Sakura Festival will be determined based on the cherry blossom blooming conditions for that year. Be sure to check the information before your visit.
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Dates: TBD (determined by cherry blossom blooming conditions)
Access: 2-minute walk from Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Keio Inokashira Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.shibuya-sakura-stage.com/eventtopics/?yearmonth=202503&date=0
Cherry Blossom Viewing at Konno Hachimangu Shrine
Source:Shibuya Keizai Shimbun
In April, the cherry trees at Konno Hachimangu near Shibuya Station will be in full bloom.
The Konno Zakura at Konno Hachimangu features a unique mixture of Hitoezaki (single-layer five-petal blossoms) and Yaezaki (multi-layer twenty-petal blossoms) blooming together. This rare variety is registered as a cultural heritage site that should be preserved in Shibuya Ward.
If you arrive in Tokyo slightly before April, consider participating in the Konno Sakura Festival. During this event, you'll have the rare opportunity to see the Konnomaru zo (a sculpture of a samurai who lived approximately 840 years ago), which is usually closed to the public.
Create unforgettable spring memories in Shibuya!
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Dates: Konno Sakura Festival March 29-30, 2025
Access: 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Keio Inokashira Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.konno-hachimangu.jp/index.html
Meiji Jingu Gaien
Source:Official website
In early April, Meiji Jingu Gaien offers a recommended walking course perfect for spring. Around the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery in Meiji Jingu Gaien, approximately 340 cherry trees bloom magnificently from late March.
A distinctive feature of Meiji Jingu Gaien is its variety of cherry trees, including not only Someiyoshino but also Yaezakura and Shidarezakura. Each species has different colors and blooming patterns, making it enjoyable to compare them while walking.
The course around the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery takes only 15-20 minutes at a leisurely pace while viewing the cherry blossoms, making it easily accessible even during your sightseeing breaks. Speaking of spring events, visitors can also enjoy the exciting Shibuya Night Festival happening in April 2025, just a short distance away.
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Schedule: Late March to early April
Access: 6-minute walk from Shinanomachi Station on JR Chuo Line
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.meijijingugaien.jp/
Three Recommended Events and Festivals in Tokyo in April
Kanda Myojin Spring Festival
Source:Official website
When it comes to April in Tokyo, the Kanda Shrine Spring Festival is famous. Due to its proximity to popular areas like Akihabara and Nihonbashi, the event draws large crowds and creates an exciting atmosphere.
Among Kanda Shrine's annual events, the Spring Festival is my top recommendation. The magnificent Someiyoshino cherry trees blooming within the shrine grounds paint the historic shrine in pink, creating a memorable scene for your trip to Japan trip.
While event participation is limited to invited guests, you can still experience Japanese culture up close by observing these traditional spring ceremonies. After enjoying the festival, consider visiting the new Shibuya Sky Garden, which is hosting special spring-themed illuminations in April 2025.
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Schedule: Saturday, March 29 - Thursday, April 3
Access:
- 5-minute walk from Ochanomizu Station (JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
- 7-minute walk from Akihabara Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
- 5-minute walk from Shin-Ochanomizu Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
- 5-minute walk from Suehirocho Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kandamyoujin.or.jp/
Asakusa Yabusame
Source:Go Tokyo
If you're visiting Japan in April, make sure to include Asakusa Yabusame in your sightseeing schedule.
Yabusame is a traditional Japanese sport where archers shoot targets while riding on horseback, and it has been enjoyed as entertainment in Japan since ancient times.
The Ite (archer) mounted on horseback wearing traditional Attire truly embodies the essence of a Bushi (warrior). You won't be able to take your eyes off the powerful sight of mounted archers galloping right before you. Speaking of spectacular events, this ties in nicely with the grand Shibuya cultural celebration happening in April 2025.
Advance tickets are available through mail order, making it convenient for international visitors. It's recommended to secure your tickets beforehand.
Additionally, the Kusajishi (a competition where archers shoot at deer-shaped targets from a standing position) that follows the Yabusame is free to watch.
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Date: April 19th (Saturday)
Access: 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Subway Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line)
Admission: Yabusame viewing seats 3,000 yen (advance tickets on sale from March 3rd), Kusajishi viewing is free
Website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/bunka_kanko/other/yabusame41.html
Edo Fukagawa Cherry Blossom Festival
Source:Official website
In April, Tokyo comes alive with the Edo Fukagawa Sakura Festival. Many tourists travel from far and wide to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom along the riverbanks.
The festival venue spans a wide area across Oyokokawa, Sendaiborigawa, and Onagigawa rivers, offering visitors the chance to enjoy spring scenery from various perspectives.
You can spend your time as you please - whether riding a boat to watch cherry petals dancing in the air or admiring the pink-tinted rivers from bridge viewpoints.
My recommendation is to visit in the evening when the walkways are illuminated by over 400 lanterns, creating an atmosphere that transports you back to ancient Japan.
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Date: March 22nd (Saturday) - April 6th (Sunday)
Access: Main venue (Ishijima Bridge) is immediately accessible from Monzen-nakacho Station (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, Toei Subway Oedo Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://fukagawa-sakura.com/
Want to Make the Most of Shibuya and Harajuku? Join a Local Guide Tour!
Looking to fully experience Shibuya and Harajuku? Why not explore these areas with a local guide? Local guides can introduce you to hidden gems known only to locals and the latest Instagram-worthy spots.
In Shibuya and Harajuku, where many young people gather, new cultural trends are constantly emerging. While visiting Japan, make sure to experience aspects that aren't covered in typical tourist guidebooks.
Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
*Special Event Notice: Join us for an exclusive cherry blossom viewing bar hop in April 2025!*
For those wanting to immerse themselves in modern Japanese culture, the Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo is highly recommended. This tour focuses on local spots that aren't included in standard tourist tours. When you step into bars tucked away in narrow alleys, you can enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine that's still relatively unknown overseas and experience the warm, welcoming atmosphere unique to Izakayas (Japanese-style bars).
With a local guide, you can comfortably enjoy establishments that might be intimidating to visit as a foreign tourist alone. Discover Japan while interacting with locals at neighboring tables.
Harajuku Kawaii Fashion & Pop-culture Tour
For Japanese pop culture and fashion enthusiasts, the Harajuku Kawaii Fashion & Pop-culture Tour is a must-try experience. This tour can be customized according to participants' hobbies and interests. For example, if you're looking for kawaii food and merchandise, you can visit trending spots that are popular on social media and take Instagram-worthy photos.
For those interested in Japanese fashion, guides can take you to vintage clothing stores frequented by stylish local youth. Enjoy your own unique Japanese travel experience that goes beyond what's found in tourist guides.
