Yanaka and Tokyo Retro Town in April 2025: Highlights, Events & Festivals
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 2025 to incorporate my findings from this research, along with the latest information for 2025.
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 in Taito Ward, Tokyo, is a popular tourist destination that preserves its retro charm. The area survived both war damage and earthquakes, maintaining its traditional atmosphere to this day.
The Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street, with about 80 years of history, features approximately 60 shops including delicatessens, fish markets, greengrocers, and souvenir stores. The area is known for its many family-owned businesses where friendly interactions with shopkeepers are part of the experience.
Flourishing as a temple town since the Edo period, Yanaka is home to over 60 temples. Various events are held around Yanaka in April 2025, welcoming spring. Here are some recommended events in and around Yanaka, including nearby Asakusa and Ueno.
Special April Experiences Around Yanaka Ginza
Bunkyo Azalea Festival
Source:Official website
The Bunkyo Azalea Festival at Nedu Shrine is a floral event featuring about 3,000 azalea plants in 100 varieties, blooming in pink, red, and purple hues.
Peak blooming occurs in mid-April, but different varieties bloom at different times, making it enjoyable throughout the month. For the Japanese Golden Week holidays in late April, visit right after opening or before closing to avoid crowds.
Well-maintained walking paths make viewing comfortable even during busy times. The view from the top level offers a spectacular panorama of the entire garden.
Nedu Shrine, known as a power spot that miraculously survived wartime, features the famous vermillion Senbon Torii (thousand gates). Try capturing photos combining the azaleas with these gates!
<Information>
Dates: April 1-30, 2025
Access: 5-minute walk from Nezu or Sendagi Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
Admission: ¥500
Website: https://nedujinja.or.jp/tsutsuji/
Yanaka Antique Market
Source:Yahoo! News
The Yanaka Antique Market is held at Enmeiin Temple, just a minute's walk from Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street. Under a 600-year-old chinquapin tree, about 40 vendors gather daily, following the concept of "providing encounters with wonderful vintage items."
You might find unique souvenirs unavailable in regular shops, such as traditional Japanese household items, tableware, retro accessories, and ceramics.
With no entrance fee, it's perfect for a casual visit during your Yanaka exploration. Enjoy the atmosphere of this historic Edo-period temple while shopping.
Check their official Instagram for past market photos. Interact with locals while searching for perfect Japanese souvenirs!
<Information>
Dates: April 12-13, 2025
Access: 3-minute walk from JR Nippori Station West Exit / 10-minute walk from Sendagi Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.yanaka-antique-market.com/english/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yanaka.antique/
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)
Hanami is a Japanese spring tradition of enjoying meals and drinks while viewing cherry blossoms. It reflects Japanese culture's desire to fully embrace these fleeting blooms. Many locations offer illuminated nighttime viewing, making yozakura (night cherry blossom viewing) popular as well.
While typically celebrated with family and friends, some shrines and temples prohibit food and drinks, offering pure appreciation of the blossoms. Here are recommended hanami spots around Yanaka.
Yanaka Cemetery
Established in 1874, Yanaka Cemetery is one of Tokyo's premier cherry blossom destinations. The serene grounds transform into an elegant display during blossom season, featuring prominently in the upcoming Yanaka Spring Festival (April 2025).
The highlight is the Cherry Blossom Street, a 100-meter tunnel of sakura trees. After peak bloom, fallen petals create a pink carpet, showcasing beauty even in decay. The Tokyo Skytree is visible from the grounds.
Food and drinks are prohibited in the cemetery. Consider visiting nearby Yanaka Ginza for local delicacies afterward.
<Information>
Access: 5-minute walk from JR Nippori Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/reien/yanaka/index.html
Chomyoji Temple
Source:Google Maps
Founded in 1609, Chomyoji Temple is a 7-minute walk from JR Sendagi Station. It's famous for its weeping cherry trees (shidarezakura), which will be featured in special evening illuminations during April 2025's Yanaka cultural events.
The delicate, drooping branches create a waterfall-like effect when in full bloom. Standing beneath the trees offers an immersive experience of cascading blossoms.
Viewing the cherry blossoms through the temple gate creates a picture-perfect frame, with the striking contrast between the black gate and vibrant blossoms embodying traditional Japanese aesthetics.
<Information>
Access: 7-minute walk from JR/Tokyo Metro "Ogikubo" or "Sendagi" Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://nedujinja.or.jp/tsutsuji/
Hongyoji Temple
Source:Google Maps
Located steps from JR Nippori Station, Hongyoji Temple is also known as the "Moon-Viewing Temple" and is famous for moon appreciation. Many renowned haiku poets have visited seeking its lush natural environment filled with abundant trees.
A highlight is the large weeping cherry tree in the spacious grounds. Its long branches stretch over the cemetery, and when in full bloom, the spectacular sight can be viewed from the Nippori Station entrance. Other cherry viewing spots include the Somei Yoshino cherry trees in front of the main gate and smaller weeping cherry trees throughout the grounds.
Consider combining your visit with the Yanaka Cemetery and Yanaka Ginza shopping street for a complete cherry blossom tour!
<Information>
Access: 1-minute walk from JR Nippori Station
Admission: Free
Zenshouji Temple
Source:Google Maps
Zenshouji Temple, known for its connection to the Tokugawa shogunate, transforms with cherry blossoms in spring. The temple's highlight features two weeping cherry trees standing on either side of the main hall. These trees bloom at different times – when the right tree's blossoms fade, the left tree reaches full bloom.
Despite being surrounded by high-rise apartments, the spacious temple grounds maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
During early April weekends, the temple hosts festivals where children receive free popcorn and sweets. Just outside the temple gate, visit the local specialty shop for "Habutae Dango" sweet dumplings!
<Information>
Access: 5-minute walk from JR Nippori Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.zensyouji.website/
Special April Experiences Around Asakusa
Asakusa Yabusame
Source:Go Tokyo
The Asakusa Yabusame, held at a special horseback riding ground in Sumida Park, is a spring tradition. Yabusame is a traditional Japanese martial art where archers shoot targets while riding horses, believed to ward off evil spirits and pray for good health.
This event, showcased at the Eiffel Tower in Paris in 1983, is one of Japan's proud traditions. Originally a New Year's ceremony, it's now an annual April event.
Watch as riders in traditional hunting attire shoot three targets in succession – a spectacular display of horsemanship and archery skills.
Advance viewing tickets are required, so check the website for details!
<Information>
Date: April 19, 2025
Access: 8-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
Admission: ¥3000 (Reservation required)
Website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/bunka_kanko/other/yabusame41.html
Buddha's Birthday Celebration (Flower Festival)
Source:Official website
At Senso-ji Temple, the Flower Festival celebrates Buddha's birthday on April 8th. Known as "Oshaka-sama" in Japan, Buddha's birth is commemorated with vibrant festivities including a large white elephant ornament and children leading celebratory parades.
A small shrine housing Buddha's birth statue is beautifully adorned with colorful flowers, creating a stunning visual centerpiece for the yanaka event this April 2025.
Visitors receive "Ama-cha" (sweet tea), believed to ward off illness and bring good health when used to bless infants. This authentic cultural celebration provides tourists a unique glimpse into Japanese Buddhist traditions.
Event Details:
- Date: April 8th, 2025
- Access: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line/Tokyo Skytree Line/Tsukuba Express)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/
Wisteria Trellis at Senso-ji Temple
Source:Google Maps
In late April, as cherry blossoms fade, Tokyo's wisteria flowers reach their peak bloom. At Senso-ji, deep purple wisteria clusters hang from trellises, resembling delicate grape bunches.
The trellis area features benches for resting while enjoying the view. The nearby Hozomon Gate's vibrant red creates a striking contrast with the purple wisteria, perfect for photography.
Sweet fragrance wafts from the gently swaying wisteria in the spring breeze. As temperatures rise to ideal sightseeing conditions, consider experiencing this limited-time wisteria display, which coincides with the special Yanaka Event April 2025.
Information:
- Peak Bloom: Late April - Early May 2025
- Access: 5-min walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line/Tokyo Skytree Line/Tsukuba Express)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/
Special April Experiences Around Ueno
Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival
Source:Taito City Official website
The renowned cherry blossom spot Ueno Park hosts the "Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival" in early April.
The highlight is Cherry Blossom Avenue at the park's center. Approximately 800 cherry trees create an iconic Japanese spring scene overhead. Cherry trees also line Shinobazu Pond, offering stunning waterside views.
For photos, visit the park entrance featuring a stone marker inscribed with "上野恩賜公園" (Ueno Onshi Kouen). The large weeping cherry tree provides an excellent backdrop.
Over 50 food stalls offer festival favorites, enhancing the hanami atmosphere. Many visitors enjoy traditional picnic-style viewing, providing an authentic Japanese hanami cultural experience.
Don't Miss the Cherry Blossom Light-up!
Source:.tokyotourism-onestop.jp
During the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, the park is illuminated from evening to night. Approximately 1,000 paper lanterns decorate Sakura Street, offering a quintessentially Japanese atmosphere.
Around Shinobazu Pond, the cherry blossoms are mystically illuminated, creating a dreamy ambiance different from daytime views. Take time to enjoy the soft reflections of the blossoms on the water.
The park is closed from 11 PM to 5 AM. Even on sunny days, nights can be cold, so please wear warm clothing!
<Information>
Date: Early April 2025
Access: 2-minute walk from Ueno Station (JR/Tokyo Metro Ginza Line/Hibiya Line)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno
Spring Peony Festival
Source:Official website
The "Botan-en" (Peony Garden) at Ueno Toshogu Shrine showcases over 500 peony plants of 110 varieties in bloom from early April to early May.
While peonies also bloom in winter, spring peonies are notable for their magnificently large flowers. With their softly layered petals, peonies are known as symbols of beauty in Japan. The colorful peonies in red, pink, and light green display an elegant and stately beauty.
Some flowers are protected by traditional Japanese umbrellas to prevent damage from rain and sunlight, adding to the Japanese aesthetic.
When tired from walking, we recommend enjoying dango (rice dumplings) and amazake at the rest area. Relax and fully experience Tokyo's spring in this traditionally Japanese garden.
<Information>
Date: Early April - Early May 2025
Access: 5-minute walk from Ueno Station Park Exit (JR)
Admission: ¥500
Website: https://uenobotanen.com/english/
Experience Tokyo's Retro Town to the Fullest with a Local Guide Tour!
Beyond the spots and events introduced here, the Yanaka area is filled with fascinating points of interest, including historic buildings, authentic Japanese experiences, and local downtown cuisine and drinks.
For those planning their trip who might be unsure what to prioritize during their limited stay, we recommend joining a guided tour. Local guides who know the Yanaka area well will show you around efficiently.
Yanaka Historical Walking Tour in Tokyo's Old Town
This tour is perfect for those wanting to explore Yanaka's history and local culture. Walk through the traditional streets of Yanaka with an expert local guide who knows every corner of this historic district.
Tour Highlights:
- Cultural exploration and visit to Nedu Jinja while learning about history
- Hands-on experience making Japanese "Maneki-neko" lucky charms
- Food tasting at Yanaka Ginza shopping street with guide's recommendations
- Experience local lifestyle while visiting temples and residential areas
The tour's main appeal is experiencing authentic Japanese daily life and culture. Walking slowly through the streets allows you to absorb the atmosphere through all your senses - something guidebooks can't convey.
Perfect for those seeking an experience beyond typical tourist routes.
Meeting point: Nedu Station
Tour area: Nedu Jinja-Hebimichi-Local Gallery-Local Cafe-Yanaka Ginza
Start time: 13:30
Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour
Looking to fully experience Asakusa? This efficient 3-hour tour with a local guide makes the most of your time.
Tour Highlights:
- Explore Senso-ji while learning about religious culture and traditions
- Traditional matcha experience at a Japanese tea house
- Enjoy local specialty monjayaki (okonomiyaki) for lunch
- Comprehensive coverage of Asakusa's main attractions in 3 hours
The tour's charm lies in its concentrated mix of popular tourist spots and unique experiences. The guide helps navigate efficiently, leaving you extra time to explore afterward.
Perfect for those thinking "I want to experience everything in Asakusa but I'm short on time!"
Meeting point: Asakusa Kaminarimon
Tour area: Nakamise shopping street-Senso-ji-Hoppy street-Local restaurant
Start time: 11:00
All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno
Perfect for drink enthusiasts! Join a guide to explore hidden local bars in Ueno where locals gather.
Tour Highlights:
- Experience bar-hopping at casual Japanese izakayas
- Enjoy izakaya classics like yakitori and kushikatsu
- All-inclusive tour price covers food and drinks
- Choose from 30+ menu items to accommodate dietary restrictions
The highlight is enjoying drinks and meals at local establishments not found in guidebooks. Small group size creates a friendly atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers too.
Toast with sake, beer, or wine while enjoying guide-recommended Japanese dishes!
Meeting point: Ueno Station
Tour area: Ueno area (3 local Izakaya bars)
Start time: 18:00
