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Tokyo in April: Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo (2026)

Written by Senior Expert Felicia|Updated: 2025-09-17

Imagine walking with your friends, family, or partner under cherry blossoms. Laughter fills the air, and a gentle spring breeze sends petals dancing all around you. There is nothing more romantic than this moment.

This is Tokyo in April. It is the iconic image that inspires countless travel dreams and the single reason many people choose to visit Japan.

But planning a trip during Japan's most popular month can feel overwhelming. How do you make sure you're there for the peak bloom? Where are the best, most beautiful viewing spots? And how is the weather and what to pack this legendary season?

We will walk you through everything you need to know to transform your dream into a perfectly planned reality. At Asia Odyssey Travel, we specialize in crafting seamless spring itineraries, ensuring you experience all the magic of the cherry blossom season without any of the stress. Let's begin your journey.

Content Preview

  • triangleEarly April (1st-10th): Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo
  • triangleMid April (11th - 20th): Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Mount Fuji Area
  • triangleBeyond the Sakura: Other Must-See Blossoms in April
  • triangleTokyo Weather in April & What to Pack
  • trianglePerfect Spring Day Trips from Tokyo
  • trianglePractical Tips for Your April Trip in Tokyo
  • triangleHow to Plan an April Trip in Tokyo? Suggested Itineraries
  • triangleExplore Tokyo & Japan in April with Asia Odyssey Travel

Early April (1st-10th): Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo

Tokyo Skytree with Sakura
Tokyo Skytree with Sakura
Tokyo Tower with Cherry Blossom
Tokyo Tower with Cherry Blossom

If you're here in early April, you've timed it perfectly. This is when Tokyo is a sea of pink and white, and the mood is just electric. It's time for hanami (that's what we call our cherry blossom picnics), and here's where we'll go:

My Go-To Spots in the City:

For a Big Party Vibe - Ueno Park:

This place is a blast. It's a huge, lively festival under a massive tunnel of over 1,000 sakura trees. We'll grab some street food, wander around, and just soak up the amazing, happy energy.

Sakura Season at Ueno Park
Sakura Season at Ueno Park
Sakura & Lake, Ueno Park
Sakura & Lake, Ueno Park

For a Chill Picnic - Shinjuku Gyoen:

If you want something a bit more relaxed, this is our spot. It's a stunningly beautiful park with huge lawns and tons of early and late-blooming varieties. It's perfect for spreading out a blanket and just chilling. (Quick heads-up: it's a no-booze zone, so we'll save the sake for later!)

Cherry Blossom in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Cherry Blossom in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Cherry Blossom in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Cherry Blossom in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

For That "Wow" Moment - Chidorigafuchi:

Want that super romantic, "I'm in a movie" scene? We have to go here. You can rent a rowboat and paddle beneath hundreds of weeping cherry trees that drape over the water. It's seriously dreamy.

Cherry Blossom in Chidorigafuchi, Tokyo
Cherry Blossom in Chidorigafuchi, Tokyo
Chidorigafuchi Moat boating under cherry blossom
Chidorigafuchi Moat boating under cherry blossom

For a Cool Evening - Meguro River (Nakameguro):

This is my personal favorite for an evening stroll. The river is lined with over 800 cherry trees, and at night they hang up lanterns that make everything glow. We can grab a glass of pink bubbly from a street stall and just wander. It's pure magic.

Meguro River Cherry Blossoms along the river
Meguro River Cherry Blossoms along the river
Meguro River Night Cherry Blossoms
Meguro River Night Cherry Blossoms

For That Classic Photo - Sumida Park:

You know that shot with the blossoms and the Tokyo Skytree in the background? This is where we get it. We can even hop on a river boat from here for a different view.

Related Article:Where to See Cherry Blossom in Tokyo | Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo 2025

The Fun Stuff We'll Do:

Hanami Picnics: The quintessential sakura experience. Join the locals by spreading out a blanket (a blue tarp is traditional) and enjoying food and drink under the blossoms.

Evening Light-ups (Yozakura): Many parks, like Chidorigafuchi and Nakameguro, illuminate the trees after dark, creating an entirely different and enchanting atmosphere.

River Cruises & Boat Rentals: Experience the blossoms from the water at Chidorigafuchi or along the Sumida River for unforgettable views.

Asia Odyssey Travel Tip:

Finding the perfect, uncrowded spot for hanami is an art. Let us arrange a curated picnic experience for you, complete with a gourmet bento box, at one of our favorite local parks away from the biggest crowds.

Meguro River Night Cherry Blossoms
Meguro River Night Cherry Blossoms
Cherry Blossom in Yoyoji Park, Tokyo
Cherry Blossom in Yoyoji Park, Tokyo

Mid April (11th - 20th): Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Mount Fuji Area

So what happens if you get here and miss the absolute peak in Tokyo? Don't even worry about it! That's actually the perfect excuse for a road trip, because the blossoms are just getting started in the mountains. And that means we can go get the most legendary photo in all of Japan.

Where We're Heading:

Lake Kawaguchiko: This is the spot. The view from the north shore is just insane—you get the lake, the blossoms, and a perfect Mt. Fuji all in one shot. It's the postcard you came here to see in real life.

Chureito Pagoda: Okay, you'll have to trust me on this one. There's a bit of a climb, but it leads to that photo. You know the one: the iconic red pagoda, a wave of pink blossoms, and a flawless Mt. Fuji sitting right behind it. It is 100% worth every single step.

Oshino Hakkai: For a totally different feel, we can check out this super cute village. It has these amazing crystal-clear ponds and old-school thatched-roof houses, all with Fuji in the background. It's charming and beautiful.

Arakurayama Sengen Park Spring cherry blossom
Arakurayama Sengen Park Spring cherry blossom
Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom
Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom

The Fun Activities We'll Do:

Iconic Photography: This is the prime time and location for capturing that perfect "Fuji + Sakura" photo.

Hot Spring Stays (Onsen): The Fuji Five Lakes region is famous for its hot spring resorts. There is no greater luxury than soaking in a relaxing outdoor onsen while gazing out at Mount Fuji and the surrounding cherry blossoms.

Related Article:Mount Fuji Cherry Blossoms: When & Where to See Sakura in Mt. Fuji

Asia Odyssey Travel Tip:

Getting to the best Fuji viewing spots requires careful coordination of buses and trains. We can arrange seamless private transport or a guided day trip to ensure you hit all the iconic locations without the stress of navigating timetables, allowing you to simply enjoy the view.

Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom
Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom
Oshino Hakkai Cherry Blossom
Oshino Hakkai Cherry Blossom

Beyond the Sakura: Other Must-See Blossoms in April

Okay, so Tokyo's cherry blossoms might be the main event, but honestly? April has so much more going on.

Wisteria Tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park: Late April

If your trip stretches into late April, you're in for a treat. The wisteria tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park are straight out of a dream. Long curtains of purple, pink, and white blossoms hang overhead, and walking through them feels like entering a fantasy world.

At night, they light them up, and it gets even more magical. It's one of those “you can't believe it's real” spots, and trust me, your camera roll will explode.

Wisteria Tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park
Wisteria Tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park
Wisteria Tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park
Wisteria Tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park

Azaleas at Nezu Shrine: Late April

Back in the city, Nezu Shrine in Bunkyo is a hidden gem in spring. Come late April, the hillside gardens burst into color with thousands of azaleas in every shade of pink, red, and white.

Combine that with the shrine's red torii gates and traditional vibe, and you've got a very Tokyo kind of spring scene. It's not as famous as cherry blossoms, which means fewer crowds and a calmer atmosphere.

Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park: Mid-to-Late April

Ever seen a field so blue it looks like the sky fell onto the ground? That's nemophila, or baby blue eyes, at Hitachi Seaside Park. Around mid-to-late April, the Miharashi Hill is covered in millions of these tiny flowers, and the view is just surreal.

It's about two hours from Tokyo, but worth every minute of the trip.

Pro tip: go on a clear day so the blue flowers, blue sky, and ocean all melt into one giant canvas.

Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park
Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park
Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park
Nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park

Tulips at Showa Kinen Park: Early-to-Mid April

If tulips are your thing, Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa (about 30 minutes from Shinjuku) is a spring paradise. They plant more than 250,000 tulips here, arranged in rainbow-like waves along streams and bridges.

Bring a picnic, rent a bike, and spend the day just soaking up the colors—it's one of the best big spring parks around Tokyo.

Tokyo Weather in April & What to Pack

So here's the thing about April in Tokyo: it's basically the city at its most comfortable. After the chilly winter months, the air finally softens, the sun feels warmer, and you can actually spend all day outside without freezing (or sweating buckets, like in August).

Sakura & Five-story Pagoda
Sakura & Five-story Pagoda
Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom
Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom

Temperature check: Daytime highs hover around 15–20°C (59–68°F), while nights can dip down to about 10°C (50°F). Early April can still feel a little crisp, especially in the evenings, but by mid-to-late April, you'll often catch yourself saying, “Wow, this is perfect.”

Rain: It's not the rainy season yet, but you'll probably get a few light showers, so having a small umbrella in your bag is always a smart move.

Average Temperature in April in Tokyo

图表

What to Pack (and Wear Like a Local)

Think layers—that's the key. Tokyoites are pros at dressing for changeable spring days, and you'll notice lots of light jackets, cardigans, and scarves out on the streets.

Light jacket or trench coat: Perfect for cool mornings and breezy evenings.

Cardigan or hoodie: Easy to peel off when the sun comes out.

Comfortable walking shoes: You'll be covering a lot of ground between parks, shrines, and neighborhoods.

A small foldable umbrella: Just in case—you'll thank yourself later.

Picnic essentials: If you're planning hanami, bring a picnic mat (blue tarps are the classic choice), and maybe a reusable tumbler for coffee or sake.

Pro tip: locals in April often swap out darker winter colors for lighter spring tones—pale pinks, soft blues, beiges. If you want to blend in (and look amazing in your cherry blossom photos), it's worth packing a spring-inspired outfit or two.

Bustling Shibuya Street
Bustling Shibuya Street
Torii Gate, Meiji Shrine
Torii Gate, Meiji Shrine

Perfect Spring Day Trips from Tokyo

Now, don't get me wrong—Tokyo in April is already paradise. But if you've got an extra day or two, it's so worth hopping on a train and exploring a bit beyond the city. Spring transforms the surrounding regions into absolute fairytale landscapes, and each spot has its own unique vibe. Here are my go-to escapes:

Kawaguchiko - Sakura with Mt. Fuji's Perfect Frame

If you want the ultimate cherry blossom + Fuji photo, this is it. The north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko is where you'll catch that postcard view—snow-capped Mt. Fuji rising over rows of blooming sakura reflected in the lake.

Bring your camera (or phone with plenty of storage), because every angle here looks like a painting.

Bonus: Kawaguchiko has some amazing hot spring ryokans, so you can soak in an outdoor bath while gazing at Fuji. Not a bad way to end the day, right?

Cherry Blossom in Mount Fuji Arakurayama Sengen Park
Cherry Blossom in Mount Fuji Arakurayama Sengen Park
Mount Fuji and Cherry Blossom
Mount Fuji and Cherry Blossom

Kamakura – Coastal Temples & Blossoms

Kamakura is like a laid-back seaside version of Kyoto. Picture ancient temples tucked into the hills, narrow streets full of cozy cafés, and the famous Great Buddha statue standing tall among cherry trees.

In April, the whole town feels softer and greener, with sakura petals drifting through the salty ocean breeze. Grab a sweet potato ice cream from a street stall (trust me) and just wander—it's that kind of place.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Great Buddha of Kamakura
Great Buddha of Kamakura

Nikko – Shrines in a Storybook Forest

If you're craving something a little quieter, Nikko is pure magic. The UNESCO-listed shrines and temples here sit nestled in a cedar forest, and in April, you often get cherry blossoms mixed with fresh greenery and sometimes even a dusting of snow on the mountains.

The contrast is unreal. It's a bit of a longer day trip, but the vibe is serene and spiritual—perfect if you want to slow down.

Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: Most of these spring escapes are doable by train, but connections can get tricky—especially if you want to combine multiple spots in one day. We can help you plan seamless private transport or guided day trips so you don't waste precious blossom time juggling timetables.

Futarasan Shrine, Nikko
Futarasan Shrine, Nikko
Toshogu Shrine, Nikko 
Toshogu Shrine, Nikko 

Practical Tips for Your April Trip in Tokyo

  • Golden Week Warning

At the end of April, Golden Week begins—a string of national holidays when nearly all of Japan travels. Expect higher prices and way more crowds. If you're visiting during this time, book hotels and trains well in advance (like, weeks or months).

  • Timing is Everything for Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms don't follow a strict calendar—they're at the mercy of weather. Peak bloom usually happens in the first week of April in Tokyo, but it can shift by a few days. If seeing sakura is your top priority, try to keep your schedule a little flexible, or let us help you adjust plans on the spot to catch them at their best.

  • Cash Still Matters

While Tokyo is pretty modern with cards and mobile payments, some smaller temples, shrines, or street stalls still prefer cash. Keep a little yen on you (ATMs at 7-Eleven always work with international cards).

Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: We can help you navigate the tricky stuff—like securing a spot for hanami picnics, planning around cherry blossom forecasts, or even avoiding the biggest Golden Week crowds. You just focus on soaking in springtime Tokyo.

Imperial Palace, Tokyo
Imperial Palace, Tokyo
Akihabara, Tokyo
Akihabara, Tokyo

How to Plan an April Trip in Tokyo? Suggested Itineraries

If you're landing in Tokyo in early April, congrats—you've nailed the sakura timing! Here's a smooth 9-day spring itinerary that balances city life, iconic blossoms, and a taste of traditional Japan.

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

Arrive, settle in, enjoy a light evening stroll under cherry blossoms.

Day 2: Tokyo City Tour

Cherry blossom spots (Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidorigafuchi), plus Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meguro River at night.

Day 3: Kawaguchiko Day Trip

Iconic Fuji + sakura views at Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, and optional onsen stay.

Day 4 : Tokyo → Kyoto (Shinkansen)

Travel by bullet train, evening in Gion.

Day 5–6: Kyoto Highlights

Philosopher's Path, Maruyama Park, Kiyomizu-dera, plus traditional gardens and tea culture.

Day 7: Kyoto → Nara → Osaka

See Nara's giant Buddha and deer, then transfer to Osaka.

Day 8: Osaka Tour

Osaka Castle (with blossoms), Dotonbori street food and nightlife.

Day 9: Departure

Fly home with sakura memories.

Asia Odyssey Travel Tip: This is just one flow—you can easily stretch it to 10–12 days if you want more breathing room (especially in Tokyo and Kyoto). We can help arrange all the train passes, hotels, and even private guides so you can just enjoy the trip without stressing over logistics.

Pokémon Center Skytree Town
Pokémon Center Skytree Town
Sushi-Making Experience
Sushi-Making Experience

Explore Tokyo & Japan in April with Asia Odyssey Travel

April in Tokyo really is something special — cherry blossoms in full swing, spring flowers painting the parks, and the perfect weather for wandering temples, riversides, and gardens. But it's also one of the busiest travel months of the year, which means planning ahead is key.

That's where Asia Odyssey Travel comes in. We'll help you:

  • Secure the best spots for hanami picnics and evening light-ups without the stress.
  • Plan smooth day trips to Mt. Fuji, Hakone, and beyond (no timetable headaches).
  • Book trains and hotels in advance so you don't miss out during peak season.
  • Add insider experiences, like a guided stroll in Kyoto's hidden blossom lanes or a private onsen stay with a Fuji view.

With us, you don't just see the blossoms — you live them, the way locals do. So pack your spring clothes, charge your camera, and get ready to make April in Japan unforgettable.

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