Tokyo in April 2025: Highlights, Events & Festivals
This article was made by my own wish to find a comprehensive guide to events at travel destinations. All the events I'm featuring here are ones that I personally recommend to international visitors, based on my six years of living in Tokyo.
Since Tokyo has so many must-see spots that it can be overwhelming, you need to plan efficiently to cover all the attractive locations. That's why Magical Trip offers various Tokyo tours guided by locals.
In particular, our "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" (Ranked #1 among all TripAdvisor tours in 2024) and "Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo" take you to local favorites that tourists rarely discover on their own. When planning your Tokyo trip, include a Magical Trip tour in your itinerary.
Introduction
In April, Tokyo's winter chill subsides, allowing visitors to comfortably wear light coats and cardigans as temperatures rise. April in Japan is also a time of new beginnings, with many people starting school or new jobs, filling the city with fresh energy and excitement.
Tokyo, Japan's capital and one of the world's leading metropolitan cities, serves as the nation's hub for economics, culture, and entertainment. The city continuously attracts numerous domestic and international visitors for both tourism and business purposes.
In April 2025, this dynamic metropolis offers various events that showcase authentic Japanese experiences, including traditional shrine festivals, cherry blossom viewing (hanami) which symbolizes Japanese spring, and exceptional culinary events from across Japan.
In this guide, we'll introduce the highlights, essential information, schedules, and access details for these events.
2025 Year-round Event Schedule in Tokyo↓
・Tokyo: List of Events & Festivals for 2025
Yasuhiro
Traditional Tokyo Events in April 2025
Kanda Myojin Spring Festival
Source:Official website
The Kanda Myojin Spring Festival is a time-honored traditional event held to pray for abundant harvests in the coming year.
Rice, Japan's staple food, is planted from April to June and harvested from September to October. Historically, Japanese people have maintained the tradition of visiting shrines in spring to pray for successful rice cultivation.
The Kanda Myojin Spring Festival 2025 also includes ceremonies praying for the healthy growth and academic success of children starting school in April. During the festival period, visitors can enjoy the sacred ceremonies against the backdrop of blooming cherry blossoms on the shrine grounds, creating a quintessentially Japanese atmosphere.
Kanda Myojin's main attraction is its magnificent shrine building, featuring vermillion-colored structures adorned with golden decorations. Don't miss the stunning contrast between the soft pink cherry blossoms and the brilliant vermillion shrine buildings while participating in the traditional festivities.
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Dates: March 29 - April 3, 2025
Access:
- 5-minute walk from JR Ochanomizu Station (Hijiribashi Exit)
- 7-minute walk from JR Akihabara Station (Electric Town Exit)
- 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Ochanomizu Station (Exit 1)
- 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Shin-Ochanomizu Station (Exit B1)
- 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Suehirocho Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kandamyoujin.or.jp/event/detail/?id=10
Asakusa Yabusame
Source:Go Tokyo
The Asakusa Yabusame is a traditional event where spectators can witness two types of Japanese archery: Yabusame, where archers shoot at small targets while riding galloping horses, and Kusajishi, where they shoot arrows at deer-shaped targets from approximately 20 meters away.
Yabusame, which combines horsemanship and archery from Japan's samurai era, is a traditional ceremony performed to pray for peace and abundant harvests. The Asakusa Yabusame, in particular, was revived in 1983, recreating a New Year's ceremony that was held at Asakusa Shrine more than 150 years ago.
This event offers a precious opportunity to experience unique Japanese culture, where archers dressed in samurai attire shoot arrows with intense concentration.
During the Asakusa Yabusame, the atmosphere becomes so tense that spectators hold their breath when archers draw their bows. This silent and solemn atmosphere allows visitors to experience a sacred moment, as if they've time-traveled to Japan 150 years ago.
This event is especially recommended for those interested in Japanese history.
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Date: April 19, 2025
Access:
- 8-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro)
- 8-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tobu Railway)
- 10-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Toei Subway)
Admission: 3,000 yen for Yabusame viewing (Kusajishi viewing is free)
Website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/bunka_kanko/other/yabusame41.html
Meiji Jingu Spring Grand Festival
Source:Official website
The "Meiji Jingu Spring Grand Festival" is a traditional event centered around worshippers paying tribute to Emperor Meiji and his consort, who are enshrined at Meiji Jingu.
During the approximately week-long festival, various traditional Japanese performing arts are showcased, including "Bugaku" (court music and dance performed to flutes and drums) and "Nohgaku" (classical theater performed in elegant kimono).
This event provides a rare opportunity to watch "Bugaku" and "Nohgaku" for free, which are performances that even Japanese people don't often get to see. Visitors can experience unique Japanese culture through the delicate yet dynamic performances of Japanese drums and bamboo flutes, as well as elegant dances in flowing kimono.
Meiji Jingu, despite being located in the heart of the city, is also attractive for its vast grounds rich in greenery. During this event, the weather becomes warm enough that you won't need a jacket, so please enjoy both the traditional ceremonies and Japan's spring nature.
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Date: April 27 - May 3, 2025
Access:
- 1-minute walk from Meiji-jingumae Station (JR/Tokyo Metro)
- 3-minute walk from Sangubashi Station (Odakyu Line)
- 5-minute walk from Yoyogi Station (JR/Toei Subway)
- 5-minute walk from Kita-sando Station (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/spring_taisai/
Akabane Baka Festival
Source:Official website
The "Akabane Baka Matsuri" is a traditional festival that began in 1956 and will celebrate its 67th anniversary in 2025. The festival honors the legacy of "Dokan Ota," a renowned military commander who lived in Akabane about 500 years ago and helped popularize entertainment such as orchestral music among common citizens.
During the "Akabane Baka Matsuri," the roads in front of Akabane Station are closed to traffic as the entire community enjoys the festivities. The festival features numerous highlights, including student marching band performances, the original "Baka Dance" unique to the festival, and a costume parade.
Another must-see attraction is the "Mikoshi" parade, where portable shrines carrying deities are carried through the streets. Local residents wearing happi coats (traditional Japanese festival garments) carry the Mikoshi while dancing to the rhythm of flutes and festival chants. If you're interested in experiencing a traditional Japanese festival, this is definitely worth visiting.
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Dates: April 26-27, 2025
Access: Immediately accessible from JR Akabane Station East Exit
Admission: Free
Website: https://bakamatsuri.com/
Natural Attractions in Tokyo in April
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is an event where people enjoy walks and meals while admiring the cherry trees in full bloom with their lovely pink flowers. Tokyo has many popular cherry blossom viewing spots that reach peak bloom in April. Don't miss the chance to experience this beautiful natural phenomenon that symbolizes Japanese spring.
Meiji Jingu Gaien
Source:tenki.jp
"Meiji Jingu Gaien" is an area that combines sports facilities, cultural institutions, and lush green parks within its expansive grounds.
At Meiji Jingu Gaien, visitors can admire various types of cherry trees, including the delicate pink "Yoshino cherry trees" and "weeping cherry blossoms" with their long branches heavy with full blooms cascading downward. The different varieties bloom at slightly different times, allowing visitors to enjoy unique cherry blossom viewing experiences throughout the season.
The grounds contain over 300 cherry trees, making it one of Tokyo's most popular hanami destinations. During the latter part of the season, visitors can enjoy walks surrounded by the magical atmosphere of falling cherry petals.
Why not experience the Japanese spring amid cherry blossom showers at Meiji Jingu Gaien, a natural oasis in the heart of the city?
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Season: Late March to Early April 2025
Access:
- 5-minute walk from JR Shinanomachi Station
- 5-minute walk from Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station (Toei Subway)
- 10-minute walk from Gaienmae Station (Tokyo Metro)
- 10-minute walk from Aoyama-Itchome Station (Tokyo Metro)
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.meijijingugaien.jp/
April is one of the most pleasant seasons in Japan, with wonderful spring weather in the air. Even at night, you can easily go out with just a light jacket.
This time of year is perfect for bike tours, where you can take in Japan's rich climate while sightseeing. By joining a Magical Trip bike tour, you can efficiently explore tourist spots with local guides who know all the best places inside and out.
・3-Hour Tokyo city Highlights Sunset Bike Tour
・5-Hour Tokyo & Edo Hidden Gem Bike Tour with Lunch
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Source:Ministry of the environment
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden opened in 1906 as an imperial garden. Today, it's open to the public as a national park where visitors can enjoy seasonal nature throughout the year, featuring Japanese gardens and European-style gardens.
At Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, about 900 cherry trees of 70 different varieties bloom successively from mid-February to mid-April. April is particularly spectacular, offering breathtaking views of blooming Yoshino cherry trees, a representative cherry blossom variety, and double-flowered cherry trees known for their dynamic deep pink blossoms.
To avoid overcrowding during peak cherry blossom season in March and April, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden requires advance reservations for weekend visits. With limited capacity, it's recommended for those who wish to enjoy cherry blossoms at one of Tokyo's premier viewing spots without large crowds.
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Period: Mid-February to Mid-April 2025
Opening Hours:
[Oct 1 - Mar 14] 9:00-16:00
[Mar 15 - Sep 30] 9:00-17:30 *Jul 1 - Aug 20: 9:00-18:30
Closed: Mondays & Dec 29 - Jan 3 (Open on Mondays during Mar 25 - Apr 24 & Nov 1 - Nov 15)
Access:
5-min walk from Tokyo Metro "Shinjuku-sanchome Station" Exit E-5
5-min walk from Tokyo Metro "Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station" Exit 1
5-min walk from Toei Subway "Shinjuku-sanchome Station" Exit C1/C5
Admission: Adults ¥500 / Seniors (65+) ¥250 / Students (High school and up) ¥250 / Junior high school and under Free
Website: https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/index.html
Meguro River Cherry Blossom Avenue
Source:WEATHER NEWS
Along both banks of the Meguro River flowing through central Tokyo, approximately 800 cherry trees bloom simultaneously across a 4km stretch from late March to early April. The cherry tree-lined Meguro River is one of Tokyo's premier hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots, often the first location that comes to mind when thinking of Tokyo's cherry blossom destinations.
Nakameguro, where you can best view Meguro River's cherry blossoms, is an area known for its fashionable shops and cafes. This sophisticated neighborhood offers a unique experience where you can enjoy the fusion of urban refinement and Japan's iconic cherry blossoms, a harmony only possible in Nakameguro where city atmosphere and nature coexist.
Due to the narrow width of Meguro River, one highlight is the beautiful arch-like formation created by cherry trees connecting over the river. During evening illuminations, visitors can enjoy a fantastical scene that feels like stepping into another world right in the middle of the metropolis.
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Period: Late March to Early April 2025
Access: About 10-min walk from Meguro Station (JR, Tokyu Railway, Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway)
Admission: Free
Website: https://tokyo-meguro.net/megurogawanosakuranamiki/
Oedo Fukagawa Sakura Festival
Source:Official website
The "Oedo Fukagawa Sakura Festival" is a cherry blossom viewing event where visitors can admire the spectacular rows of cherry trees blooming along the Oyoko River in the heart of metropolitan Tokyo.
A captivating highlight of this festival is the enchanting night view, when over 400 traditional lanterns illuminate the cherry blossom-lined walkway after dark. Experience a luxurious moment as the lanterns' glow reflects on the river's surface, enveloping the entire venue in a dreamlike atmosphere.
Another popular attraction of the "Oedo Fukagawa Sakura Festival" is the opportunity to enjoy cherry blossom viewing while riding traditional Japanese boats on the Oyoko River. Viewing the blossoms from the water while feeling the gentle breeze offers a deeper experience of Japan's natural spring beauty.
The cherry blossoms present different colors and atmospheres when viewed during daylight hours versus during the nighttime illumination, so we recommend comparing these distinct experiences throughout the day.
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Dates: March 22 - April 6, 2025
Access: Immediately accessible on foot from Monzen-Nakacho Station (Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway)
Admission: Free
Website: https://fukagawa-sakura.com/
Chiyoda Sakura Festival
Source:VISIT CHIYODA
The "Chiyoda Sakura Festival" is an event where visitors can enjoy a "tunnel of cherry blossoms" along the verdant walkway known as "Chidori-ga-fuchi Green Way."
The event venue, Chidori-ga-fuchi Park, is part of the Imperial Palace moat. Along the approximately 700-meter walkway, around 230 cherry trees bloom in close proximity, creating a mystical scene resembling a "tunnel of cherry blossoms."
Another appealing aspect of the "Chiyoda Sakura Festival" is the opportunity to view cherry blossoms while rowing boats on the moat. Enjoy this unique experience of looking up at the beautiful cherry blossoms while gently rocking in a boat.
During the evening festival hours, the cherry blossoms are softly illuminated by LED lights. Don't miss the picturesque view of the illuminated pale pink blossoms reflecting on the mirror-like water surface.
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Dates: Late March - Early April 2025
Access:
- 5-minute walk from Kudanshita Station Exit 2 (Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway)
- 5-minute walk from Hanzomon Station Exit 5 (Tokyo Metro)
Admission: Free
Website: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/sakura/
Tokyo Gourmet Events in April 2025
NIKUFES 2025 TOKYO
Source:PR TIMES
NIKUFES 2025 TOKYO is Japan's largest festival for meat lovers, with a cumulative total of approximately 8.35 million participants since its first event in 2014. This gourmet event brings together selected meat specialty restaurants from across Japan, featuring gyoza, hamburgers, and steaks.
NIKUFES 2025 TOKYO will host the "Steak King Championship," which determines the No.1 steakhouse in Japan. Since the "Steak King" is decided by participant votes, make sure to find your favorite steak and cast your vote!
Additionally, at NIKUFES 2025 TOKYO, you can enjoy your meals in the "Picnic Area" laid with artificial green turf. The event takes place when the weather becomes warm enough to spend time outdoors with just a cardigan. Why not savor the delicious meat dishes while relaxing in nature?
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Dates: April 26 - May 6, 2025
Access:
2-minute walk from "Tokyo International Cruise Terminal" Station on Yurikamome Line
5-minute walk from "Daiba" Station on Yurikamome Line
7-minute walk from "Tokyo Teleport" Station on Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.nikufes.jp/
CRAFT SAKE WEEK
Source:Official website
CRAFT SAKE WEEK is a gourmet event featuring carefully selected sake from across Japan, paired with high-quality dishes that complement the sake.
During CRAFT SAKE WEEK, visitors can compare about 10 different types of sake each day based on varying themes. For example, it's an excellent opportunity to experience many unique sake varieties at once, such as sake made in cold regions of eastern Japan or rare sparkling sake.
You can also enjoy sake-perfect dishes like fresh tuna "seafood bowls" and "Ochazuke" made with premium Japanese black beef topped with essential Japanese dashi broth.
Even within sake, flavors vary by product, ranging from sweet to dry to fruity. Don't miss this chance to fully experience the marriage of refined cuisine and sake.
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Dates: Mid to late April 2025
Access:
Direct access from Exit 1C of "Roppongi" Station on Tokyo Metro
4-minute walk from Exit 3 of "Roppongi" Station on Toei Subway
5-minute walk from Exit 7 of "Azabu-juban" Station on Toei Subway
8-minute walk from Exit 4 of "Azabu-juban" Station on Tokyo Metro
10-minute walk from Exit 5 of "Nogizaka" Station on Tokyo Metro
Admission: Free
Website: https://craftsakeweek.com/
ProWine Tokyo 2025
Source:Official website
ProWine Tokyo 2025 is the Japanese version of ProWein, the world's largest wine festival held annually in Germany, and Japan's only wine and alcoholic beverage specialized event. In its inaugural 2024 event, it showcased new products and trends in wines selected from approximately 20 countries worldwide.
This event brings together diverse wines from around the world, including red wines, white wines, and sparkling wines. Uniquely to the Tokyo event, ProWine Tokyo 2025 offers not only quality wines but also Japanese sake and shochu.
At ProWine Tokyo 2025, you can sample high-quality wines that are yet to be discovered globally and notable wines that have won international wine competitions. Don't forget to participate in interactive content like the "Label Contest," where you can vote for your favorite unique wine labels from each winery.
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Dates: April 15 - April 17, 2025
Access:
3-minute walk from "Tokyo Big Sight" Station on Yurikamome Line
7-minute walk from "Kokusai-tenjijo" Station on Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit
Admission: 5,000 yen (Free with pre-registration)
Website: https://prowine-tokyo.com/
