Cherry Blossom Season in Japan: The iconic Chidorigafuchi

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Cherry Blossom season in Japan is starting yet again and I find myself reminiscing about living near Tokyo during this time. My first Cherry Blossom post of this year is one of the more famous places to view these flowers, Chidorigafuchi. Over 200 Cherry Trees drape over the Northwest moat of the Imperial Palace creating a picturesque Sakura viewing. You may have seen photos of the row boats with couples or friends along the river making the scene that more beautiful. There are numerous iconic spots all throughout Japan, many during Cherry Blossom season. As I have mentioned before, I am usually found walking through cities, sitting in cafes or when in Tokyo, living the big city dream. During Cherry Blossom season though, these flowers took center stage through my lens.

I knew this season would be stunning but I had no idea how much I would truly love this time of year. Japan in a sea of pink and white was like nothing I have ever seen! This time last year my friends and I were fervently planning the places we wanted to see covered in Sakura blossoms. The rowboats on the water outside the Imperial Palace easily happened upon our list. Could we really be one of those people along the river in a colorful rowboat?

YOU BET WE COULD. And we did. If you too have this goal while visiting Tokyo, I hope these photos and tips inspire you.

Quick info

Hours for Chidorigafuchi boat rental

The hours of the boat rental depend on the Cherry Blossom season, but I have listed the hours according to the site for the 2019 forecast. To get the most up to date hours and prices, make sure to check their website before your trip because of course these can change!

March 21-March 26th: 9:30am-5:30pm

March 27-April 7: 9:00am-8:30pm

Prices: (BRING CASH)

During the high of the season you will need to pay 800 yen for a thirty minute rental and 1600 yen for hour rental. Outside of this time it is 500/1000 yen.

Tips for an easy Chidorigafuchi boat rental experience

If you decide to rent the boats, it is about a 10 minute walk from exit 2 of the Kudanshita Station. I highly encourage getting to the boat rental early to wait in line. If you’re asking yourself is this all worth it? YES it is. I look back on this day with such joy and you will have a *pinch me* moment when you are surrounded by a sea of Sakura petals rowing along the moat. You will find yourself in an iconic Tokyo image. If you need more convincing, I hope these photos will have you rushing to wait in line for your very own dream-like day.