Known for its delicate beauty, cherry blossoms are one of Japan’s most iconic appeal points and a must-see for many travellers when visiting during the spring. A flower tied to Japan’s identity and culture, a yearly visit to the park to enjoy the view during full bloom is a tradition for many.
If you’re in Japan in the springtime, here are three ways to make the most of the cherry blossom season around TOKYO SKYTREE with a full day ‘sakura’ packed itinerary.
Morning – Take in the panoramic view of the riverside cherry blossoms
Start your day with a boat cruise along the Sumida River, taking in the panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline and cherry blossoms that line the riverway. One of the main rivers that flow through central Tokyo, spanning about 24km, around 1,000 cherry blossom trees line both sides of the river, creating a true spectacle during the blooming season.
Sightseeing boats, known as ‘Yakatabune’, are traditional Japanese boats usually fixed with tatami flooring, lanterns and low tables, and are one of the best ways to enjoy these cherry blossoms. Most cruises run for over 2 hours with many offering options to enjoy some lunch while sailing along the river. The boats are often fitted with large viewing windows and an observation deck, for you to fully enjoy the unobstructed view of the blooming riverside blossoms, and if you are in the right area on the Sumida River, juxtaposing the iconic TOKYO SKYTREE, the world’s tallest free-standing broadcasting tower in the world.
Afternoon – Experience the flavours of spring at TOKYO Solamachi
Starting to feel a little bit peckish? Enjoy the taste of spring at TOKYO Solamachi, a shopping complex located at the base of TOKYO SKYTREE, only a short walk from the Sumida River across the SUMIDA RIVER WALK. A 160-metre-long footbridge stretching across the river, it provides a quick and scenic pathway from the main Asakusa area to TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN. TOKYO Solamachi houses a variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues for you to explore and enjoy. During the spring season, many of these restaurants and cafes offer limited edition menus incorporating fragrant cherry blossoms and beautiful flower motifs.
If you’re feeling like something refreshing, visit AMARA Deli, a restaurant serving healthy and delicious Indian cuisine. During spring, they offer a pink Lassi drink with a subtle cherry blossom flavour topped with fluffy whipped cream.
If you want a taste of traditional Japanese sweets, visit STRAWBERRY MANIA, a strawberry specialty store offering Japanese sweets, beverages as well as strawberry themed accessories. They serve light pink ‘ichigo daifuku’, reflecting the beautiful colours of cherry blossoms. They are round mochi balls, stuffed with sweet filling and topped with a whole piece of strawberry.
Night – Enjoy the Magical glow of night-time cherry blossoms
By the time the sun has set, and you have finished exploring TOKYO Solamachi, take a leisurely stroll back across the river to Sumida Park to see around 1000 cherry blossom trees transform into majestic glowing pink clouds. Known as ‘Yozakura’ (night-time cherry blossoms), the blooms are illuminated after sunset with traditional lanterns as part of the Cherry Blossom Festival which is held from late March to early April.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere as the park becomes packed with delicious food stalls, walk along the riverside whilst enjoying the cool breeze and simply take in the view. Be sure not to miss the opportunity to snap the view of the glowing cherry blossoms with the illuminated TOKYO SKYTREE in the backdrop.
