I travelled to Tokyo at the rear end of Spring in late April and I was pretty bummed because most of the cherry blossom forecasts indicated that I already missed the bloom in Tokyo.

I decided to try my luck anyway so on the first day that I landed, I immediately head down to Ueno Park. Thankfully, there were still cherry blossoms in bloom (though many of the trees were already bare). Even with the half-dying trees, Ueno Park was still so crowded and full of tourists that I couldn’t have the authentic hanami experience.

Nonetheless, whatever was left of the blooms were still very pretty and I have pictures to show for it so I guess I can officially check it off my Japan to-do bucket list?

Cherry Blossom Viewing at Ueno Park

Address: Japan, 〒110-0007 Tokyo, 台東区上野公園5－20
Opening hours: 5am – 11pm, daily
Nearest station: JR Ueno Station

[Bonus] Cherry Blossom Viewing at Hakone Gora Park

Address: Japan, 〒250-0408 Kanagawa Prefecture, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Gora, 1300
Opening hours: 9am – 5pm, daily
Entrance fee: 550 yen. Entrance is free if you have the Hakone Freepass

When I visited Tokyo, I also took a 2D1N trip to Hakone, a mountainous town known for its onsens (hot springs). Because of its location, there seem to be a lot more cherry blossoms still in bloom.

It was also great because the park was significantly emptier than in Tokyo. I spent 2-3 hours in Gora Park, living my full Japanese hanami fantasy.

Watch this to check out the rest of my Tokyo adventure:

Or read more about my trip to Tokyo here:
– Kimi No Na Wa. (Your Name.) Tokyo Locations
– Cat Café MoCHA Harajuku (猫カフェ MOCHA 原宿店)
– Where to Eat & Drink in Tokyo: Coffee, Craft Beer Bars & Food
– Things to Do in Tokyo in 45 Photos