Spring brings rising temperatures and a revival of life after the long winter. Here’s a list of 7 things to try in Tokyo during this season, including cherry blossom viewing and more.
Go to Cherry Blossom viewing
Experience the classic Japanese spring tradition of enjoying tasty food and drinks surrounded by the beautiful sight of pale pink cherry blossoms. Check out Tokyo’s popular cherry blossom spots, like Chidorigafuchi, the Imperial Palace area, Ueno Park, along the Sumida River, and Asukayama Park. If you prefer a later bloom, don’t forget to visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for its charming double cherry blossoms. While daytime cherry blossoms are stunning, the magic continues at night when illuminated blossoms create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
More: SECRET SAKURA GUIDE FOR TOKYO
Ride a water bus on the Sumida River
Hop on a water bus along the Sumida River, flowing through the eastern part of the city. Enjoy the refreshing river breeze as you cruise. Two companies, Tokyo Mizube Line and Tokyo Kanko Kisen, operate these water buses, connecting Asakusa to Hamarikyu, Odaiba, and other Tokyo Bay areas. During cherry blossom season, catch the scenic view of cherry blossoms along the riverbanks. Have fun spotting the Tokyo Sky Tree, various bridges, passing boats, and maybe even some seagulls following along near the river mouth.
Drink cocktails while overlooking Tokyo Bay
Tokyo is a vast city by the sea, offering a great time to unwind with a cocktail while taking in the view. Head to Manhattan on the 6th floor of Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay for terrace seating on a wooden deck. From there, you can enjoy the sight of Rainbow Bridge in front, the Sumida River to your left, and Tokyo Tower nestled between the buildings. For a higher vantage point, check out the rooftop bar at Andaz Tokyo, a hotel in Toranomon Hills. On the 52nd floor, you can appreciate the beautiful night view of Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba.
Experience the excitement of the festival
After the Shogunate was established in the 17th century, Edo, the forerunner of Tokyo, experienced significant growth and began hosting numerous festivals. Alongside major events like the Sanno Festival, Kanda Festival, Fukagawa Festival, and Asakusa’s Sanja Festival, which were prominent during the Edo period, mikoshi (sacred religious palanquin) festivals take place at shrines across Tokyo from spring to autumn. These festivals feature many adorned mikoshi, carried by individuals wearing a hanten, headband, belly blanket, and crotch puller. If you have the chance, it’s worth attending one of these lively and colorful events.
Watch ancient Yabusame
In Japan, there are 18 general martial arts that samurai historically needed to master. Among these, yabusame, practical horseback archery, which combines archery and horsemanship, holds a prominent position. Yabusame, a training for samurai, also serves as a ritual dedicated to the gods, aiming for protection against evil, abundant harvests, and the well-being of children. One notable location to witness Yabusame is Sumida Park in Tokyo. The rarity of observing this practice in a city park makes it a unique experience not to be missed. The event showcases archers adorned in traditional attire skillfully handling horses, bows, and arrows. The focus is on the proficiency of the participants rather than extravagant displays, offering spectators a captivating glimpse into this ancient martial art and ritual.
View of Mt.Fuji
Spring is also an excellent time to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. A must-visit spot is the Chureito Pagoda, where you can capture three iconic symbols of Japan – Mt. Fuji, Sakura (cherry blossoms), and the Five-storey Pagoda – all in one frame. Once you’ve explored the pagoda, consider visiting nearby attractions like Kawaguchiko to make the most of your trip.
Watch a race at the racetrack
Tokyo’s pleasant spring climate offers an ideal setting for enjoying horse races at various racetracks in the area. Tokyo Racecourse, in particular, hosts significant races like the Japan Derby, Oaks, and NHK Mile Cup nearly every week during the spring season. At Nakayama Racecourse, you can witness the thrilling Nakayama Grand Jump, a prominent obstacle race featuring horses gracefully navigating obstacles. All racetracks provide additional amenities such as restaurants, shops, and amusement parks, making it a family-friendly outing with options for everyone.
