Different ways of enjoying hanami in Japan

End March to Early April is the main sakura hanami (Cherry Blossom viewing) season in Japan. Most people would gather around a tree and have a picnic with their friends and family, but today I would like to recommend other ways to enjoy the flowers.

Row a boat at Chidori-ga-fuchi

Out of all the boats you can row under sakura, the one at Chidori-ga-fuchi is undoubtedly the most famous one. Chidori-ga-fuchi is located near the Imperial Palace, so you can visit both places if you take the boat here. You can enjoy a nice view of the traditional palace ground and the buildings in the central business district.

Different faces of Chidori-ga-fuchi Which do you prefer? (Image credit: Photo AC)

Swans at Inokashira Park

I have personally done this before, although it does not seem as romantic in the pictures as it is quite tough peddling with all your might and trying your best not to crash into other boats, whilst controlling your camera and enjoying the sakura all at the same time. The Studio Ghibli museum is also nearby, so after peddling under the sakura, you can enjoy a quiet afternoon at the museum. There is also a very unassuming yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) store near the park, called Iseya. This restaurant has been in the yakitori business for 80 years! I have been to Iseya thrice, and they provide the most delicious and high cost-performing yakitoris. It was also fun to eat with all the buzz in the restaurant, and the smell of grilled chicken in the air.

Cute swans you can rent at Inokashira Park. There is an urban legend that couples who do the swan ride here, BREAKUP! Dont say I did not warn you :) (Image credit: Photo AC)

Meguro River sakura cruise

You must have heard and read about the beautiful sakura lining the Meguro River and the famous Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo located there. Many people flock to Meguro River during sakura season, it can get so packed that you cannot even walk! A smart way to get past this point is to enjoy a boat cruise down the river, and ride under a tunnel of pink petals. The boat cruises can get pretty popular as well, so we recommend you to book it in advance.

Full blooming sakuras lining the Meguro River. (Image credit: Photo AC)

Stand Up Paddle (SUP) at Ooka River, Yokohama

If you would like to avoid the crowds, but do not want to ride on a engine-powered boat, nor paddle your own swan boat, but still want to get up close and personal to the sakura, I recommend you to try the Stand Up Paddle (SUP) at Ookagawa River, Yokohama. The instructors would take social media worthy photos for you, so do not worry on balancing and trying to get a photo! I believe that this is a great activity, for you to truly focus on enjoy the moment, to feel the early morning spring breeze on your face and paddle past the sakura.

SUP along the Ookagawa River. (Image credit: Photo AC)

At TokudAw Inc., we can help you craft an itinerary around your requests. We believe that there is perfect hanami activity for everyone! We have loads of suggestions for you, so fret not, and let us know what you want.

To book your fully customized private tour, please send an email to wanping@tokudaw.com