Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival & Spots 2025: Must-see Places in Tokyo!
Ueno is a district in Taito Ward, Tokyo, known for its zoo, art museums, and lush natural park. It's also famous for "Ameyoko," a shopping street under the railway tracks.
With its central location in Tokyo and excellent accessibility as a tourist destination, it's also a convenient base for tourism to other regions, thanks to the Shinkansen (bullet train) connections.
The famous Ueno Park (Ueno-onshi Koen), which houses the National Museum and Ueno Zoo, is bustling daily with tourists and locals alike. Ueno Park is also known as one of Japan's premier cherry blossom viewing spots.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in abundance, covering the vast Ueno Park. The annual Ueno Sakura Festa attracts many visitors.
This article will thoroughly introduce information about the best times to see cherry blossoms in Ueno Park, highlights, and the must-enjoy "Ueno Sakura Festa." If you're planning to enjoy cherry blossoms during your Tokyo trip, please use this as a reference.
Ueno Park is Known as One of Japan's Premier Cherry Blossom Spots
Source: town.mec-h.com
Ueno Park is one of Japan's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. While there are many renowned cherry blossom locations throughout Japan, Ueno Park is said to be ranked No. 1 nationally in terms of popularity. The scenes of cherry blossom viewers crowding Ueno Park are extensively covered in the news every year.
Ueno Park has about 1,200 cherry trees planted. In 2016, it recorded approximately 3.5 million cherry blossom viewers during the season. The planting of cherry trees in Ueno Park began about 400 years ago, and since then, it has been a gathering place for people to enjoy cherry blossoms.
Currently, about 70% of cherry blossom viewers in Ueno Park are international tourists. It has become particularly popular with overseas tourists in recent years as a spot where they can fully enjoy the beauty of spring in Japan.
The Best Season for Cherry Blossoms in Ueno Park is "Late March to Early April"
The best season for cherry blossoms to reach full bloom in Ueno Park is typically from late March to early April. Ueno Park has over 50 varieties of cherry trees, including early-blooming winter cherry types, mid-season cherries, and late-blooming village cherry types.
The most commonly planted variety is Somei Yoshino, which blooms and reaches full bloom from late March to early April. During this season, Ueno Park is filled with gorgeously blooming cherry blossoms. From late March, the Ueno Sakura Festa is also held, attracting many people to the park.
Early-blooming cherry varieties include Kanzakura and Kanhizakura, which bloom from late February to March. Late-blooming representatives include Ichiyo and Sekizakura, which can be enjoyed until mid to late April.
"Ueno Sakura Festa" is Held from Late March to Early April
Source: tokyotourism-onestop.jp
From late March to early April, the annual event "Ueno Sakura Festa" is held in Ueno Park. It takes place as a popular event within the "Ueno Sakura Matsuri" which starts from mid-March.
During the Ueno Sakura Matsuri period, nighttime cherry blossom illuminations are held throughout Ueno Park. At night, traditional Japanese lanterns called "bonbori" are lit. The soft light illuminates the night cherry blossoms, creating a magical scene unique to this season.
During the Ueno Sakura Festa period from late March, there are special events such as nighttime cherry blossom illuminations at Shinobazu Pond, a popular spot in Ueno Park, and music live performances on special stages. Many goods fairs and food stalls are also set up, allowing you to enjoy Ueno Park like a festival.
If you plan to see cherry blossoms in Ueno Park, it's especially recommended to visit during the Sakura Festa period when fun events are abundant.
3 Must-See Cherry Blossom Spots in Ueno Park
Cherry Blossom Avenue on the Main Street
Source: Tokyo Shinbun
The main street in the center of Ueno Park is called "Sakura Street." It features an avenue of about 800 cherry trees of various types, including Somei Yoshino and Mountain Cherry.
The highlight is the cherry blossom avenue, said to be the best in Japan, and its lively atmosphere. You can walk under cherry blossoms that bloom in an arch formation overhead. During the Sakura Matsuri period, food stalls line the wide cherry blossom avenue, creating a very bustling and energetic atmosphere.
Since the trees are planted along a wide road, the cherry blossoms are somewhat distant from eye level. If you want to take photos, look for drooping branches and take pictures near them. Having a device with good zoom capability is also recommended.
The Sakura Street is very crowded during the blooming season. Especially during the daytime, there may be times when it's difficult to stop and stand still. If you want to take photos, be prepared to snap quickly and move efficiently.
Cherry Blossoms at Shinobazu Pond
Source: JRE MALL
Shinobazu Pond is a large pond within Ueno Park. With a circumference of 1.3 km, it's surrounded by rich nature. It's known for beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom along the pond in spring.
The highlight is the reflection of full-bloom cherry blossoms on the pond's surface. The pond appears to be dyed pink with the reflected cherry blossoms, creating a magical scene. Many wild birds also visit Shinobazu Pond. It's recommended to observe and photograph the adorable birds gathering at the pond amidst the beautiful falling cherry blossoms.
Shinobazu Pond has a large bridge that divides the pond in the center. Cherry trees are mainly planted on the lotus flower side. For close-up photos of cherry blossoms, try walking along the pond's edge on the lotus side.
Additionally, you can see scenery that includes Tokyo Skytree and cherry blossoms, or the traditional Shinobazu Pond Benten Temple and cherry blossoms in the same frame. Look for your favorite photo spots around the pond.
The Collaboration of Shrines and Temples with Cherry Blossoms in Ueno Park
Source: Google Maps
Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple is located within Ueno Park. The building was constructed in the 17th century and is the oldest building in the Ueno area.
The highlight is the beautiful weeping cherry trees on the temple grounds. Two trees are planted, one near the entrance and one behind the building. One is called "Shushikizakura" and has been successively planted in this location for hundreds of years.
The sight of pink flowers blooming on drooping branches is very elegant and beautiful, making it a popular spot.
When taking photos at Kiyomizu Kannon-do, it's recommended to capture the traditional beautiful building together with the cherry blossoms. You can get particularly nice photos of the building and cherry blossoms together near the temple entrance.
Also, as Kiyomizu Kannon-do is located on a hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the park and Shinobazu Pond from the building.
3 Must-See Highlights of the Spring "Ueno Sakura Festa" Event
Nighttime Cherry Blossom Illumination at Shinobazu Pond
Source: Official website
During the Ueno Sakura Festa period, the cherry blossoms at Shinobazu Pond are illuminated at night. You can stroll under beautifully lit night cherry blossoms along the pond's edge and on the bridge crossing the center of the pond.
The highlight is the beautiful nighttime view of Ueno Park that you can enjoy along with the cherry blossoms. From Shinobazu Pond, you can see the nighttime Tokyo skyline. Enjoy the Tokyo-unique scenery of cherry blossoms against the neon of high-rise buildings. You can also see the colorfully illuminated Tokyo Skytree in the distance. Depending on the angle, you can capture it in photos together with the cherry blossoms.
Additionally, the Benten-do Temple by the pond is also illuminated. Benten-do is a beautiful temple of traditional Japanese architecture. When illuminated, it presents a majestic sight different from daytime. Try to capture it in photos together with the night cherry blossoms.
Events at the Fountain Plaza
Source: Official website
During the Ueno Sakura Festa, various events are held at the Fountain Plaza (Takeno-dai Plaza) near the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
The highlight is the Spring Live Stage, typically held on weekends in late March. Popular Japanese idols and musicians appear and perform major live shows. Admission is free, so feel free to participate and enjoy.
Many food and goods stores also set up shop at the venue, where you can purchase popular items from the Ueno area and specialties from various parts of Japan. Cute panda goods, featuring the popular residents of Ueno Zoo, are particularly popular every year.
Additionally, pro wrestling events are also scheduled on the stage. Stage events are held daily during the festa period from late March. Enjoy events and shopping at the Fountain Plaza.
Over 50 Types of Food Stalls
Source: Official website
Furthermore, during the Ueno Sakura Matsuri and Festa period, over 50 types of food stalls were set up in various locations throughout Ueno Park. In 2024, they were mainly located near Shinobazu Pond and the Fountain Plaza.
The stalls sell items such as yakisoba, takoyaki, and monjayaki. Monjayaki is a traditional light meal similar to okonomiyaki, made with flour, water, and vegetables. Additionally, grilled items like scallops, squid, and beef skewers are also popular. You can also purchase sweets like candied fruits. Alcoholic beverages like sake and champagne are also available.
The food stalls are open from mid-March to early April, generally from around 10 AM to 11 PM, depending on the store. If you want to enjoy many stores, it's recommended to visit during the daytime when more shops are operating.
Information
(2024 Event Information)
- Address: Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Closed days: None (held rain or shine, cancelled in case of severe weather)
- Phone number: 03-3833-0030
- Hours: March 22 (Fri) - April 7 (Sun), 10:00-21:00 (ends at 19:00 on the final day)
- Official website: https://ueno.or.jp/sakurafes2024/#gaiyo
Not Just Ueno Park! 3 Cherry Blossom Spots Around Ueno
1. Taito Ward Sumida Park
Source: WALKER PLUS
At Taito Ward Sumida Park, you can enjoy cherry blossom trees lining both banks of the Sumida River. The Sumida River is a symbolic river in the Taito Ward area. The best viewing time is from mid-March to early April.
The highlight is over 900 cherry trees along both banks of the Sumida River. With 300 trees on the Sumida Ward side and 600 on the Taito Ward side, a beautiful riverside cherry blossom avenue continues for over 1 kilometer. From the riverbank, you can also view Tokyo's skyscrapers and the nearby Tokyo Skytree together with the cherry blossoms.
For photography, it's recommended to take a yakatabune (traditional Japanese boat) and shoot from the water. You can capture the cherry blossoms spreading across both riverbanks. The cherry blossom petals floating on the water like a carpet are also magical and photogenic.
This spot is perfect for those who want to leisurely view cherry blossoms by the river or see the Skytree with cherry blossoms closer than at Ueno Park.
Information:
- Address: 1 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: 03-5246-1321
- Hours: 24 hours
- Official website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/kenchiku/hanamidori/koen/sumidapamphlet.html
2. Yanaka Cemetery
Source: TAITO City Official website
Yanaka Cemetery is a historic collective cemetery near Ueno Park. Known for the graves of samurai shoguns and famous literary figures, it's also known for its quiet atmosphere and rich nature. In spring, many people visit it as a cherry blossom viewing spot. The best viewing time is from late March to early April.
The highlight is the cherry tree avenue called "Sakura-dori" in the center of the cemetery. Compared to Ueno Park, there are fewer people, so you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in a relaxed atmosphere. Take a quiet stroll through the tunnel of cherry blossoms.
For photography at Yanaka Cemetery, first try shooting the cherry blossoms on Sakura-dori from a low angle. Looking up at the cherry blossoms creates photos full of presence. Since it's not crowded, you can take your time finding your favorite angles.
There are also several large cherry trees near the graves away from Sakura-dori. This is a recommended spot for those who want to see the unique scenery of graves and cherry blossoms in a quiet atmosphere.
Information:
- Address: 7-5-24 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: 03-3821-4456
- Hours: 24 hours
- Official website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/reien/park/index073.html
3. Sensoji Temple
Source: OZmall
Sensoji Temple is a famous Buddhist temple near Ueno in Asakusa. The area around the temple includes a shopping street called "Nakamise-dori" which is always bustling with tourists. The best time for cherry blossoms is from late March to early April.
The highlight of cherry blossoms at Sensoji Temple is viewing them while enjoying the lively Nakamise-dori. Nakamise-dori sells Japanese-style accessories, chopsticks, and other miscellaneous goods. Enjoy shopping while experiencing the falling cherry blossoms.
For cherry blossom photography at Sensoji Temple, go through Nakamise-dori to the large gate called "Hozo-mon." There's a large weeping cherry tree there. This spot is less crowded than Nakamise-dori, allowing you to take photos of the elegant cherry blossoms with the beautiful gate.
There are also beautiful cherry trees scattered throughout the temple grounds beyond the gate. When visiting Sensoji Temple, be sure to take a leisurely stroll around the entire grounds.
Information:
- Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Closed days: Mondays
- Phone number: 03-3842-0181
- Hours: 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM (6:00 AM - 5:00 PM from April to September)
- Official website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/
