Chidorigafuchi

During springtime, the parks and green spaces in Tokyo and around Japan come to life with colorful pink blossoms. Springtime is cherry blossom season, and for the best viewing in the city, head to Chidorigafuchi. With walkways, bridges, pavilions and boats plying the waters of the surrounding moat, there are plenty of places to view the spectacle in April when the sakura cherry trees bloom.

Located along the edge of the Imperial Palace moat, Chidorigafuchi is also home to a National Cemetery where the remains of the thousands of unknown Japanese soldiers who died in World War II were laid to rest.

Early April typically represents the peak of cherry blossom season, but in the days and weeks following, it often appears to be snowing as the trees begin to drop their blossoms. Even if you can’t make it during springtime, the park makes for a pleasant green escape from the city throughout the year. From here you can tour some of the gardens of the Imperial Palace or rent a boat from the Chidorigafuchi Boathouse and row on the moat.