Now, this is definitely not the first post of the year filled with cherry blossom photos. Kawazu zakura bloomed in Atami as early as January and it was quite a spectacular sight. However, end of March seems to be the time that Japanese and all the tourists traveling here are anticipating the most. Indeed, this is the time when the most popular type of cherry trees – somei yoshino – start to bloom, and as of last weekend sakura craze has officially began.
Last year I didn’t get a chance to spend as much time gallivanting Tokyo during the peak season as I wished, so I will do my best to make up for the lost time this time around. The plan is to visit all popular and off the beaten path cherry blossom viewing spots in and around Tokyo, so stay tuned for my cherry blossom chronicles. Last weekend I spent the most wonderful weekend with my friends – Naomi, Celia and Hitomi – looking for early blooms. We spent some time in Zojoji Temple’s yard and then moved to Shinjuku Gyoen. Buds in Zojoji Temple were still delicate, just starting to open. Shinjuku Gyoen, on the other hand, treated us to a few gorgeous trees that were in full bloom. By the way, in case you plan on arriving to Tokyo later in April, Shinjuku Gyen should definitely be on your itinerary. It is filled with so many varieties of cherry trees that you are guaranteed to find yourself a lovely hanami spot. Here are some photos from our adventures. Stay tuned and travel with me vicariously as I take you around Tokyo to show you its breathtaking cherry blossom views.
xoxo, nano
Let’s connect on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | BlogLovin’ | Pinterest