Enjoy a Springtime Cherry Blossom Tour at Popular Spots in Minato Ward, Tokyo
It’s that time of year again when news of cherry blossoms arrives on the spring breeze. Minato Ward, where the sophistication of the city coexists with the charm of history, is home to numerous famous cherry blossom viewing spots. Tokyo announced the start of the cherry blossom season on March 24. From cherry blossoms blooming against a backdrop of skyscrapers to those adorning historic temples, we’ll introduce popular hanami spots—each with its own unique charm—along with tips on how to enjoy the blossoms and recommendations for each location.
Capture the sight of Tokyo Tower and the cherry blossoms in harmony at Shiba Park
Shiba Park, one of the largest parks in Tokyo, is also famous as a prime spot for cherry blossoms. About 140 Somei-Yoshino and Sato-zakura cherry trees bloom in full splendor, making it a popular spot for taking photos with Tokyo Tower in the background. Despite being located in the heart of the city, it features expansive lawns where visitors can relax and enjoy the park at their own pace. Why not spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy the cherry blossoms in a relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere?
Shiba Park was one of the first parks designated in Japan in 1873 (Meiji 6). It is also known as a place where the history of the Edo period and earlier times remains vividly preserved, with historical structures scattered throughout the area, such as the Shiba Maruyama Kofun—a keyhole-shaped burial mound—the Shiba Toshogu Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the former Sōmon Gate of the Daito-in Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tokugawa Hidetada. Not only does Tokyo Tower offer a stunning view, but the combination of cherry blossoms and historic sites is truly heartwarming.
The park features well-maintained walking paths, making it the perfect place for a stroll. Taking a leisurely walk while admiring the cherry blossoms is sure to refresh both your mind and body. The perimeter of the park is approximately 1.4 km. Since the path is relatively flat, it’s also recommended as a route for walking or jogging.
I’m captivated by the beauty of the cherry blossoms in the city at Roppongi Hills
At Roppongi Hills, you can enjoy the vibrant cherry blossoms at the Mouri Garden and Roppongi Sakura-zaka. The Mōri Garden is a Japanese-style garden area featuring beautiful cherry blossoms blooming around a pond. It was originally the site of the residence of the Mōri family of the Chōshū Domain during the Edo period (the residence of Mōri Kai-no-kami), and it still retains traces of that history today. In 2003, as part of the Roppongi Hills development, it was redeveloped as a strolling pond-and-stream garden and reborn as a modern park. During the spring cherry blossom season, it becomes a prime spot for hanami, where traditional Japanese ambiance blends with modern scenery.
Roppongi Sakura-zaka is known for its cherry blossom-lined avenue, featuring approximately 75 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees planted to encircle the residential area of Roppongi Hills. Although located in the heart of Roppongi, it is famous as a spot where visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms in a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for viewing the blossoms from the cafes and restaurants near the avenue or for a leisurely stroll. When the blossoms are in full bloom, a magical tunnel of cherry blossoms forms, allowing you to feel the essence of spring simply by walking through it.
Roppongi Hills is also worth visiting at night. Not only can you enjoy the sight of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower illuminated against the backdrop of nighttime cherry blossoms, but the “Roppongi Hills Spring Festival 2025” will also be held for three days, from Friday, April 4, to Sunday, April 6. During this annual event, approximately 90 cherry trees blooming in the Mouri Garden and along Roppongi Sakura-zaka will be illuminated. There will also be stage performances showcasing Japanese traditions, workshops, and food stalls serving spring delicacies. Why not enjoy the nighttime cherry blossoms, which blend harmoniously with Roppongi Hills, and experience something unique to this location?
Be Enchanted by the Fusion of Art and Cherry Blossoms at Tokyo Midtown
At Tokyo Midtown, approximately 100 cherry trees are in full bloom, primarily in Midtown Garden. The garden features not only Somei-Yoshino cherry trees but also various other varieties, such as Ooyamazakura, Yanibenishidare, and Yamazakura. Since these varieties bloom at different times, visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms for an extended period.
Midtown Garden, a lush green space located within Tokyo Midtown, is known as an urban oasis where modern architecture and nature harmonize, and it features a wealth of public art. We recommend taking an art stroll while enjoying the cherry blossoms.
"MIDTOWN BLOSSOM 2025" will be held from Friday, March 14, through Sunday, April 13. This is Tokyo Midtown’s annual event celebrating the arrival of spring. In addition to enjoying a stroll among the cherry blossoms, the outdoor lounge “ROKU 〈六〉 MIDTOWN BLOSSOM LOUNGE” will serve original cocktails, food, and sweets prepared by The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo. Throughout the event, the cherry blossoms will be illuminated in accordance with their blooming progress.
Be moved by the majestic scenery of history and cherry blossoms at Zojo-ji Temple
Zōjō-ji, the head temple of the Jōdo-shū sect and founded in 1393 (the 4th year of the Meitoku era), was designated as the family temple by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate, and is also famous for housing the tombs of the Tokugawa shogunal family. It remains one of Tokyo’s most historic temples, attracting many visitors to this day. Within the grounds of Zojo-ji, historic structures blend harmoniously with over 200 cherry trees, creating a solemn and majestic atmosphere.
The contrast between the Main Hall (Daiden) of Zojo-ji Temple and Tokyo Tower is one of Tokyo’s most iconic views. With the addition of cherry blossoms, you can enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind scene found nowhere else. Additionally, the “Flower Festival” is held every year on April 8, which is considered the birthday of Shakyamuni Buddha. Why not take part in the festivities while admiring the cherry blossoms?
The cherry blossoms around the San-gedamon Gate are also beautiful, attracting many photography enthusiasts who set up their cameras at this prime photo spot. Meanwhile, the area around the Sen-tai Koiku Jizō statue within the temple grounds offers a photogenic scene where cherry blossoms and colorful windmills blend together. The combination of windmills swaying in the breeze and cherry blossoms is sure to warm your heart. Visit Zojo-ji Temple and discover your very own spot to enjoy the cherry blossoms.
In addition to the locations featured here, Minato Ward is home to many other famous cherry blossom viewing spots. The cherry blossom season in Tokyo typically runs from late March to early April. Visit these popular spots and create wonderful spring memories.