How To Experience Hanami in Tokyo Like a Local

From picking the best spot to cherry blossom etiquette.

Tokyo has many beautiful parks and waterways to view the cherry blossoms.

• Some parks may have an entrance fee but could be less crowded

• Bring your own snacks and picnic supplies

• Make sure to be respectful of the cherry blossoms

Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a beloved tradition in Japan that takes place each spring. Millions of people flock to Tokyo during the cherry blossom season to take part in this tradition and enjoy the beauty of the pink blossoms. I lived in Japan before the pandemic and this is the first year the Japanese government is allowing picnics again, so it’s likely to be crowded.  If you’re planning on doing hanami in Tokyo, here are some tips you should know before you go.

1. Plan your visit well in advance.

Cherry blossom season is one of the busiest times of the year in Tokyo, so it’s important to plan ahead. According to Japan’s National Tourism Organization, in 2018 nearly 5 million tourists visited Japan, just during cherry blossom season alone. Check the cherry blossom forecast to make sure you’re visiting at the right time, and consider visiting less popular parks or areas to avoid the crowds.

Ueno Park is a fan-favorite, however it’s usually always crowded, so consider Shinjuku Gyoen which has limited capacity, though you’ll need to pay a 200-yen ($2 USD) entrance fee, but you’re more likely to find a spot. Or try a stroll down the Meguro River, which is famous for its waterfront if you’re short on time.

2. Bring a picnic.

One of the highlights of hanami is having a picnic under the cherry blossoms. Make sure to bring something to sit on, some food, and drinks to enjoy with friends and family. If you want to do it like a local, stop by a home supplies store or a nearby Don Quixote and pick up a blue tarp, and stop by a conbini for your food. Convenience stores (or conbinis as they’re called in Japanese) and most supermarkets will offer premade bentos.

Also if you’re planning to buy alcohol, make sure the park you have in mind allows alcoholic beverages. While drinking in public is legal in Japan, and a large part of the picnic culture in Japan, not every park allows it.

My personal favorite park is Yoyogi Park because it’s right off the Harajuku subway stop and located by Meji Jingu shrine. However, since it’s free to enter, it’s likely to be packed so make sure to get there early if you want a good spot. Wherever you go, don’t forget to bring a trash bag with you and clean up after yourself when you leave.

3. Dress appropriately.

The weather during cherry blossom season can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast before you go. Dress in layers so you can stay comfortable throughout the day, and bring an umbrella in case of rain. Also make sure you can move around or sit down in your choice of clothing, since you’re likely be sitting on the ground.

4. Be respectful.

Hanami is a popular tradition in Japan, but it’s important to be respectful of the surroundings and other visitors. When taking photos or being near the trees, make sure not to touch the flowers still on the tree as they’re delicate and can damage the tree in the future.

Also, a pro tip, while it may seem like a coveted picnic spot, you may not want to sit directly under the trees because the flowers will scatter all over your belongings.

5. Try the seasonal treats.

During hanami season, many shops will offer traditional Japanese snacks and drinks. Try some sakura-flavored treats, such as sakura mochi (a sweet rice cake filled with red bean paste and wrapped in a cherry blossom leaf) or sakura sake (a sweet, pink-colored sake). Some parks will have small stalls inside selling these snacks so you don’t have to leave the park.

6. Take public transportation.

If you’re just visiting you may already have a JR Pass, but if not public transportation is still your best option to get to the parks. Tokyo’s public transit system is ranked third best in the world according to a Time Out survey. However, just remember that trains and buses can be crowded during this season, so be prepared for a little bit of a wait. Though most parks are located near the subway stops so you shouldn’t have much of a trek once you arrive at your stop.

In conclusion, hanami is a beautiful tradition that should be experienced by anyone visiting Tokyo during cherry blossom season. With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your experience and enjoy the beauty of the sakura blossoms in all their glory.