Sakura

As per the forecast, sakura (cherry blossom) will be in full bloom by end of March until mid-April in Kanto area. As early as today, everyone is anticipating the arrival of pink showers. But where to go exactly? Basing from my personal experience, take note that I’ve been to few places only, here are my recommendations.

Spring

slow-motion showers

kiss of pollens and petals

antihistamines

/totomai
for Poetry Pantry 244

1) Chiba Park, Chiba 

This is my favorite spring spot. It is far from the chaos of Tokyo, not so crowded and it is free of charge. A mere 10-15 minute walk from Chiba Station, or you can take the Chiba monorail  if you are feeling lazy. It is not as big as other famous parks so the sakura trees are not that many. But if you want to take photos freely, this place is for you. Nearest Station : Chibakoen.

 

2) Hamigawa, Chiba 

I could not find any reference on the net regarding this place. I have been living around the area for six years but it was only last year that I discovered it while having an early morning jog. The sakura trees and their reflection made me promise to visit it again this year. It’s a 15-20 minute walk from Shin-kemigawa Station. Or I can bring you there. Nearest Station : Shin-Kemigawa.

3) Shinjuku Gyoen National Park, Tokyo 

One of the more popular destinations during sakura season is the Shinjuku Gyoen. There’s an entrance fee of 200 yen and a long queue may welcome you but don’t be discouraged, the park is huge and can accommodate thousands. Please be advised that alcohol is not allowed. For photographers, there are lots of cherry blossoms inside. Tripods are discouraged. Nearest Station : Shinjuku Gyoen Mae or Sendagaya.

4) Sumida River, Tokyo

If you want to enjoy hanami in the heart of the city, then Sumida River is the perfect place for you. It is very crowded though. But at least you can have the view of Tokyo Sky Tree. There’s an available cruise trip too.  Nearest Station : Asakusa.

5) Imperial Palace, Tokyo 

How about some a-blast-in-the-past mood during hanami? Then better head to the Imperial Palace. Around the area, there are lots of cherry blossoms. During this season, you can see lots of salarymen carrying bento gathered together for lunch under the trees.  Nearest Station : Takebashi.

6) Nakameguro Station, Tokyo 

Highly recommended to visit at full bloom or at night time. Have a beer or two here after work. Nearest Station : Naka-meguro.

7) Chidorigafuchi, Tokyo

Now I know why Chidorigafuchi is very popular in Tokyo during spring. It has a cinematic feel that could transport one to another dimension in a very limited time. In just one scene, you can see the flowers talking to each other, lovers promising forever, and a river humming a lullaby. You can’t help but record that scene - with or without selfie sticks. Haha! Nearest Station : Kudanshita Station

8) Koga Park

Not really about cherry blossoms, but if you are seeking for alternative such as peach blossoms, this place is for you.  Momentarily, I have forgotten about the cherry blossoms. Lots of activities are going on, spectators take photos, families have picnics, and others just take a rest under the pink canopies and go to dreamland. Nearest Station : Koga Station

There are other places you can enjoy. If you want to get drunk while embracing the season, Yoyogi Park is for you. There’s Showa Kinen Park if you want to escape Tokyo momentarily. I haven’t been to Ueno Park during sakura season so I cannot recommend it, but is one of the popular destinations. Regardless of the place, don’t forget to take photos. Mobile camera will do.

But why is spring very popular here in Japan? It's because of hanami, or flower viewing. Everyone, from friends, families, tourists, is out of their houses, troops to the park and enjoys being showered by these petals falling at a speed of 5 cm/s. You can't even prohibit a person who is allergic to pollen to miss this event. Parks around Tokyo are turning into a big playground. 

For those you are not into cherry blossoms but still into flowers, click here.  

See you around. 

/totomai 

2015/03/20

Photos taken with Nikon D7000, Nikon D80 and iphone5s

lenses used : 
     Nikkor 18-200mm 3.5f 
     Nikkor 105mm 2.8f