Cherry Blossom Photo Location Guide for Tokyo

Sakura Forecast 2024

Status of 10/01/2024

According to the Tokyo Sakura (cherry blossom) forecast for 2024, cherry trees should start to bloom on March 23 and reach full bloom by March 30. The Japan Meteorological Corporation’s forecasts served as the foundation for this one.

In general, it is anticipated that Japan’s cherry blossoms would open a few days sooner than usual in 2024. Around March 18, the first blooms are expected to appear in Kochi Prefecture; Kanto-Koshin, Tokai, and Kyushu are expected to follow shortly after. By May 2, the flowers will have progressively moved north to Hokkaido.

Arai Gochome Hodo Bridge

Nakano, Tokyo

Visit Tokyo’s Arai Gochome Hodo Bridge in Nakano to begin your photographic Sakura adventure. This photo spot in Tokyo is the best for capturing the stunning beauty of Sakura. Known as one of the greatest places to take pictures around Tokyo, this photo location provides not only a breathtaking cherry blossom background but also a special chance to capture the charming yellow train through the cherry tree blooms. For those who want to get the best photography results, the best time to visit this amazing location is in the early morning on a bright day. Evenings are usually busier, but they also lead to amazing results.

The colorful contrast between the gentle blossoms and the lively photo of the yellow train moving through the cherry blossoms is what really makes Arai Gochome Hodo Bridge stand out as a photo location. Every five to ten minutes, this train passes by, giving photographers plenty of chances to catch the best photo. It’s advised to carry a range of lenses for this unusual shooting location, with a tele-lens being an absolute necessity for getting close-up shots of the sakura and the passing train. Here is a perfect place to set up a tripod for steady, crisp shots. As such, it should be on every photography enthusiast’s cherry blossom itinerary.

Make sure to check out the detailed cherry blossom guide for Nakano.

Yellow Train during Sakura / Cherry Blossom in Tokyo – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 200mm | f2.8 | 1/5000s | ISO320

Yellow Train during Sakura / Cherry Blossom in Tokyo – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 70mm | f2.8 | 1/2500s | ISO100

Roppongi Keyakizaka Street

Minato, Tokyo

Ensure to visit one of the best photo spots in Tokyo during cherry blossom season: Roppongi Keyakizaka Street — it’s a treasure among the city’s top photo locations. I urge anyone looking for the ideal photo opportunity to capture the alluring essence of Sakura to visit this place. The accessibility of this photo spot and the breathtaking vista it provides throughout the day are what make it so charming. In contrast to other photo locations where time is of the essence, Roppongi Keyakizaka Street remains charming all day, from the gentle morning light to the evocative evening tones. This adaptability enables photographers to capture the magnificence of the full-bloom cherry blossoms on any schedule.

Keyakizaka Street at Sakura in Minato, Tokyo – Photo taken with OPPO Find X3 Pro

Keyakizaka Street at Sakura in Minato, Tokyo – Photo taken with OnePlus 9 Pro

From the pedestrian bridge that overlooks Roppongi Keyakizaka Street, you may get one of the most spectacular angles to photograph this famous scene. Photographers can capture the entire beauty of the cherry-lined road and create a striking frame full of the delicate white blooms from this vantage point. This image, which beautifully combines nature and urban landscapes, captures the spirit of Tokyo during the sakura season.

For photography equipment at this site, a basic lens is sufficient. Roppongi Keyakizaka Street’s arrangement and proximity make it possible to take beautiful pictures without the use of sophisticated lenses. Standard lenses are sufficiently adaptable to capture both the grand vistas and the minute details of the cherry blossoms. This makes it the perfect photo location for pros seeking a simple yet fulfilling photographic experience as well as amateurs with modest equipment.

Chidorigafuchi Moat

Chiyoda, Tokyo

Chidorigafuchi Moat, in the center of Tokyo, is one of the best photo spots, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. Chidorigafuchi is widely regarded as one of the most popular destinations for cherry blossom photography and a vital component of any travel guide. When the boat rental opens in the morning, this is the ideal time to visit this photo location. This timing guarantees not only softer lighting—perfect for photos—but also fewer people, making for more serene and composed images. The morning light softly illuminates the blossoms, creating a subtle play of color and light that is ideal for capturing the ethereal beauty of the sakura.

For taking pictures at Chidorigafuchi, a tele-lens is highly advised. This lens option adds depth and a unique viewpoint to your images, making it perfect for close-up shots of far-off flowers or for catching the boats on the water of the moat. A range of compositions, from broad vistas of the scenery to close-ups of specific branches hanging over the lake, can be made with the capacity to focus on far-off details.

While Chidorigafuchi’s north is a well-known photo location, you are invited to explore along the moat as well. There are countless photo opportunities around every bend and turn along the route, which unveils fresh perspectives and compositions. 

Chidorigafuchi Moat during Sakura / Cherry Blossom in Tokyo – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 70mm | f8.0 | 1/500s | ISO100

Chidorigafuchi Moat during Sakura / Cherry Blossom in Tokyo – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 158mm | f3.2 | 1/2500s | ISO100

Sumida Park

Sumida, Tokyo

In Sakura season, Sumida Park, which lies in the north-east part of Tokyo, is a photographer’s dream come true. I can confirm that this park is one of Tokyo’s top locations for taking pictures of cherry blossom. Sumida Park, well-known for its breathtaking scenery and lively ambiance, provides a wealth of chances for both novice and expert photographers wishing to expand their repertoire of cherry blossom shots. The park offers a variety of backgrounds and viewpoints, stretching across both banks of the Sumida River. To take advantage of all the best photo spots, you must visit both sides of the river.

The best time to visit Sumida Park is early in the morning if you want to take pictures of peaceful, deserted settings. On the other hand, the afternoon is the best time to capture bright vitality during the cherry blossom season because it offers more activity and life to the park. The way people interact with nature enhances photographs, demonstrating the cultural significance of sakura in Japanese society.

Sumida Park at cherry blossom / Sakura – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 70mm | f4.0 | 1/250s | ISO100

Tokyo Skytree Sakura Cherry Blossom – Canon EOS R5 with RF24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM | 43mm | f2.8 | 1/6400s | ISO50

Meguro River

Meguro, Tokyo

The early morning and evening are the ideal times of day to explore the Meguro River. Photographers can benefit from reduced crowds early in the morning, which makes it possible to get peaceful images and unhindered views of the cherry blossoms along the river. Meguro River’s evenings become a breathtaking light show, providing an entirely new experience. Photographers will love the enchanted and wonderful environment that the lighted cherry blossoms create. The illuminated sakura lend a beautiful glow to the landscape as they reflect off the water’s surface.

In terms of photography gear, Meguro River’s beauty can usually be captured with a normal lens. On the other hand, using a tele-lens is recommended as well. You can capture the wider scene of the river bordered with cherry trees or zoom in on faraway details with the tele-lens, giving you more creative control over your photos. 

Meguro River at late Sakura season – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 92mm | f16.0 | 1/125s | ISO200

Meguro River at night illumination – Canon EOS R5 with RF24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM | 24mm | f2.8 | 1/60s | ISO2000

Make sure to go to the area surrounding Naka-meguro Station—which should not be mistaken for Meguro Station—is a crucial piece of advice for visiting the Meguro River. Some of the best sites to see the cherry blossoms along the river are around Naka-meguro Station. There are lots of attractive spots here that are perfect for capturing the spirit of sakura season.

Sakuragaoka (Sakura Street)

Shibuya, Tokyo

See Tokyo’s famous Sakura Street, also called Sakuragaokacho, for yourself the stunning splendor of cherry blossoms. Timing is everything when trying to capture the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms. Set your alarm for early in the morning during cherry blossom season, when Sakura Street is bathed in a soft, lovely light. The blossoms are enveloped in a serene radiance from the embrace of morning, producing an otherworldly landscape perfect for your photo expedition. Additionally, the quieter atmosphere of early mornings allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the moment.

Sakura Street offers a wide variety of shots, from wide vistas of the whole street to close-ups of delicate flowers. Have a wide range of lenses at your disposal, from wide-angle to telephoto. With a wide-angle lens, you can catch the street’s grandeur, while a telephoto lens can help you zoom in to capture the subtle details and beauty of individual petals.

Sakuragaoka (Sakura Street) during Cherry Blossom – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 70mm | f8.0 | 1/250s | ISO100

Sakuragaoka (Sakura Street) during Cherry Blossom – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 70mm | f8.0 | 1/320s | ISO100

Different Photo Spots

• The Crossing Viewpoint: Stand in the center of the road and take pictures of the blooms that around the bustling intersection. A wide-angle lens is ideal for this location since it captures the entire panorama and highlights the interactions between the natural world and the built environment.
• Alternative side of the roads: You might get another great perspective of Sakura Street from the other side of the intersection, with the complete crossing in the front.
• Top of the Bridge: Aerial views of Sakura Street can be obtained by climbing to the summit of the nearby bridge. Capture images of the cherry blossom-bordered crossing. This viewpoint adds depth to your images by emphasizing the grandeur and splendor of the blossoms at their peak.

Ueno Park

Taito, Tokyo

Situated in the north of Tokyo, Ueno Park becomes a top photo spot when cherry blossom season rolls around to capture the breathtaking beauty of sakura. This park provides a range of settings and backgrounds, making it a must-visit location in any travel guide covering cherry blossoms.

Early morning is the best time to visit Ueno Park if you’re a photographer hoping to get some quiet moments with fewer people. The serene atmosphere of the morning creates a peaceful backdrop that permits unhindered vistas and the chance to photograph the cherry blossoms at their peak. However, Ueno Park has a distinct energy in the afternoon, which makes it a fantastic time to capture more movement and the vibrant mood of Tokyo during the cherry blossom season. The park is bustling with people, which gives the pictures a lively human feel. The contrast between the vivacious energy of the people and the serene beauty of the cherry blossoms creates a unique photo opportunity.

Ueno Park in Tokyo at Sakura – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 200mm | f2.8 | 1/2000s | ISO100

A well-known photo location, Ueno Park’s main promenade provides a traditional vista of the cherry blossom trees that line the path. Photographers are urged to venture beyond the main promenade, though, since there are many other photo opportunities across the park, each providing a distinctive viewpoint of the sakura. Ueno Park is full of photogenic spots, from secret forests to serene ponds reflecting the blossoms.

Hinokicho Park

Minato, Tokyo

When cherry blossoms are in bloom, Tokyo’s Hinokicho Park becomes a photographer’s dream location, complete with the stunning sight of sakura. This park is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends into the collection of Tokyo’s greatest locations for photos during Sakura season. It’s a spot that should be highly featured in any travel guide on cherry blossoms looking for great photo spots.

In Hinokicho Park, the afternoons have a special charm. This time of year, the sun plays hide-and-seek with the cherry blossoms, creating a warm, vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for photographers trying to capture the essence of sakura. The interaction of light and shadow and the vibrant pink of the blooms make the scene both lively and enthrallingly beautiful.

Hinokicho Park Cherry Blossom / Sakura in Minato Tokyo – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 70mm | f8.0 | 1/400s | ISO100

Hinokicho Park Cherry Blossom / Sakura in Minato Tokyo – Canon EOS R5 with RF24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM | 35mm | f4.5 | 1/2500s | ISO100

However, the two pedestrian bridges are what really make Hinokicho Park unique. These bridges lead to some of the park’s most breathtaking vistas; they are more than just walkways. A curvy roadway lined with a riot of cherry blossoms is visible when gazing down from these bridges. This viewpoint is distinct, providing an uncommon and exciting view.

Yoyogi Park

Shibuya, Tokyo

Explore Yoyogi Park visually, a tranquil area tucked away in the heart of Tokyo, Japan. Plan your photographic expedition for the morning, especially if you want to capture the cherry blossoms for photos, if you want to fully appreciate Yoyogi Park’s charm. The first light of dawn softly illuminates the park, creating a serene backdrop for capturing the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms on camera.

Shibuya – Yoyogi-Park at cherry blossom – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 200mm | f5.0 | 1/320s | ISO100

Central pond in Yoyogi-Park – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 147mm | f5.0 | 1/500s | ISO100

Different Photo Spots

• Cherry Blossom Garden: Yoyogi Park’s Cherry Blossom Garden is a symphony of gorgeous hues and fragrant petals during cherry blossom season. Use your telescopic lens to focus on specific flowers to create a serene, elegant image.
• Park Central Pond: To add a lyrical and fascinating element to your photographs, arrange the cherry blossoms in the quiet waterways in a way that highlights them. The beauty of Yoyogi Park is encapsulated in a poetic image, amplified by the light of the dawn.

Senso-ji Temple / Asakusa Shrine

Taito, Tokyo

During cherry blossom season, Senso-Ji Temple, commonly called Asakusa Shrine, is a popular photo spot in Tokyo’s old district. It is well-known for its scenic surroundings and cultural value, making it one of the greatest photo locations, particularly for those who want to capture the spirit of the sakura in their shots.

The time of day at Senso-Ji Temple has a big impact on getting the ideal photo. The early hours are perfect for photographers who want a calm, empty setting. The serene ambiance and gentle morning light create the perfect setting for unhindered views of the cherry blossoms against the grand backdrop of the temple. For those who want to capture Tokyo’s serene side during the cherry blossom season, this is the ideal time. The afternoon brings about a total change in energy. The region is humming with activity, providing a window into Tokyo life in all its glory during cherry blossom season. This is the perfect time to take colorful pictures of crowded streets.

Asakusa Shrine / Senso-ji Temple at Cherry Blossom / Sakura – Canon EOS R5 with RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM | 135mm | f2.8 | 1/200s | ISO200

Asakusa Shrine / Senso-ji Temple at Cherry Blossom / Sakura – Canon EOS R5 with EF85mm f/1.2L II USM | 85mm | f3.5 | 1/200s | ISO100