【Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo】

 

 

 

Introduction

 

Hello, international travelers visiting Tokyo!

Cherry blossoms, or “Sakura”, are globally renowned as a symbol of Japan. But did you know that Tokyo’s cherry blossom season actually begins as early as February?

While the main cherry blossom season is typically from late March to early April, you can enjoy “Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms” in Tokyo from early February.

In this guide, we will explore the different types of early blooming cherry blossoms, the best viewing spots in Tokyo, how to get there, and the best times to visit.

If you’re planning a Tokyo spring vacation, don’t miss this comprehensive Early Blooming Cherry Blossom Guide!

 

 

 

What Are Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms?

 

Early blooming cherry blossoms are known for blooming 1-2 months earlier than the popular Somei Yoshino variety.

They are characterized by vibrant pink petals and longer blooming periods, marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring in Tokyo.

Popular varieties of early blooming cherry blossoms include:

• Kawazu-zakura (河津桜)

• Kanhi-zakura (寒緋桜)

• Okan-zakura (大寒桜)

• Keio-zakura (啓翁桜)

 

The best time to see early blooming cherry blossoms in Tokyo is from early February to mid-March.

If you want to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms before the crowds, early blooming varieties are perfect!

 

 

 

Types of Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms

 

1. Kawazu-zakura (河津桜)

• Blooming Period: Early February – Early March

• Features: Vibrant deep pink petals and large blossoms that bloom for about one month.

• Origin: Named after Kawazu Town in Shizuoka Prefecture, where they were first discovered.

 

2. Kanhi-zakura (寒緋桜)

• Blooming Period: Late January – Mid-February

• Features: Bell-shaped small flowers with deep pink petals, one of the earliest blooming varieties.

• Also Known As: Hi-kan-zakura (緋寒桜).

 

3. Okan-zakura (大寒桜)

• Blooming Period: Mid-February – Mid-March

• Features: Soft light pink petals with an elegant appearance, blooming slightly later than Kawazu-zakura.

 

4. Keio-zakura (啓翁桜)

• Blooming Period: January – February

• Features: Pale pink blossoms that are often used as cut flowers.

They are known for blooming from winter to early spring.

 

 

 

 

Top 7 Spots to See Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo

 

1. Kyu-Nakagawa River (Edogawa Ward)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Kawazu-zakura, Okan-zakura, Somei Yoshino

• Best Viewing Time: Late January – Early April

• Highlights:

• Around 275 cherry trees blooming in sequence along the riverside, allowing you to enjoy cherry blossoms for an extended period.

• Stunning views of Tokyo Skytree with cherry blossoms in the foreground, perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

• Access: 10-minute walk from JR Sobu Line “Hirai Station.”

 

2. Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku Ward)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Kawazu-zakura, Kanhi-zakura, Okan-zakura, Somei Yoshino

• Best Viewing Time: Mid-February – Mid-April

• Highlights:

• A spacious park in the heart of Tokyo, featuring a variety of cherry blossoms.

• The Kawazu-zakura area is particularly popular among international visitors.

• Access: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line “Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station.”

 

3. Rikugien Garden (Bunkyo Ward)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Okan-zakura, Shidare-zakura (Weeping Cherry)

• Best Viewing Time: Late February – Mid-March

• Highlights:

• A traditional Japanese garden and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in Tokyo.

• Evening illuminations create a magical night cherry blossom experience.

• Access: 7-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Namboku Line “Komagome Station.”

 

4. Meguro River (Meguro & Shinagawa Wards)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Kawazu-zakura, Somei Yoshino

• Best Viewing Time: Late February – Early March (Kawazu-zakura)

• Highlights:

• Over 800 cherry trees line the Meguro River, creating a tunnel of blossoms.

• Enjoy cherry blossoms while exploring trendy cafes and shops along the river.

• Access: 5-minute walk from Tokyu Meguro Line “Musashi-Koyama Station.”

 

5. Yoyogi Park (Shibuya Ward)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Kawazu-zakura, Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura

• Best Viewing Time: Late February – Early April

• Highlights:

• A spacious urban park with diverse cherry blossom varieties.

• Perfect for picnics and hanami parties under the pink blossoms.

• Access: 5-minute walk from JR “Harajuku Station.”

 

6. Sumida Park (Taito & Sumida Wards)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Kawazu-zakura

• Best Viewing Time: Late February – Early March

• Highlights:

• Enjoy cherry blossoms with a view of Tokyo Skytree.

• Romantic riverside walks with cherry blossoms in full bloom.

• Access: 10-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line “Asakusa Station.”

 

7. Ojima Komatsugawa Park (Edogawa Ward)

• Cherry Blossom Types: Kawazu-zakura

• Best Viewing Time: Mid-February – Early March

• Highlights:

• Less crowded hidden gem for cherry blossom viewing.

• Relaxing riverside walks with beautiful cherry blossoms.

• Access: 15-minute walk from Toei Shinjuku Line “Funabori Station.”

 

 

 

 

Conclusion: Enjoy Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo!

 

Tokyo’s early blooming cherry blossoms offer a unique and serene hanami experience from February to mid-March.

Avoid the crowds and enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms before the peak season.

If you’re planning a spring trip to Tokyo, don’t miss these beautiful early blooming cherry blossoms!

 

 

 

 

Plan Your Visit

 

Before visiting, be sure to check the latest bloom forecasts and weather updates.

For easy navigation, consider using a Japan Rail Pass or IC cards like Suica or Pasmo.

Get ready to capture beautiful memories with stunning cherry blossom photos!