Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Spring in Japan wouldn’t be complete without cherry blossoms. If you’re looking for a festival that that celebrates Japanese cherry blossom culture and combines nature with fun-filled activities, the Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture, is the perfect pick. With 2,000 cherry trees spanning 50 different varieties, this festival is a dream for hanami lovers, photography enthusiasts, and families looking for a fun spring outing.

The park bursts into color from mid-March to early April, with Somei Yoshino and Fuji sakura trees painting the landscape in delicate pinks and whites. And the best part? Admission is completely free! If you missed full bloom in Tokyo, don’t worry – Shimizu Park’s sakura season is another chance to explore cherry blossoms at their peak.

Disclaimer: These dates are based on bloom predictions for 2025, but bloom timing can change. Double-check closer to your visit to avoid surprises!

History of Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival

Shimizu Park has been a beloved cherry blossom destination since 1894, when it was founded by the Mogi family, the same family behind Kikkōman, Japan’s famous soy sauce brand. Built on land borrowed from Konjō-in, Noda’s oldest temple, the park was originally designed as a tranquil retreat. Over time, it expanded into an adventure park with a sprawling cherry blossom garden, a field athletics course, and even a campground.

The Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival has since become one of Chiba’s top spring events, drawing visitors eager to experience its stunning natural beauty and 50 different sakura species. Recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots, the festival is a must-visit every spring.

What to Expect at Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

There’s plenty to see, do, and eat at the festival! Here’s what makes it a must-visit:

• A massive variety of cherry trees – With 50 different kinds of sakura trees, the park shows a wide range of cherry blossom trees, from pale pink Somei Yoshino to vibrant Fuji sakura.
• Hanami picnics under the trees – Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a hanami party under the blossoms.
• Evening illuminations – When the sun sets, soft lights illuminate the cherry blossoms and create a magical nighttime experience.
• Food trucks and festival stalls – Try local specialties like sakura-themed sweets, yakitori, and other delicious street food.
• Family-friendly activities – Beyond the cherry blossoms, the park offers an outdoor adventure course, a campground, pony rides, and even a small petting zoo. Perfect for kids!

Looking for a break from the crowds? Take a stroll to Konjō-in, Noda’s oldest temple, which sits just outside the park and offers a peaceful retreat from the festival buzz.

How to Get to Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Shimizu Park is located in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture, which makes it an easy and convenient day trip from Tokyo, Narita, or other nearby areas. Since cherry blossom season attracts large crowds, it’s best to plan your visit in advance.

• By train: Take the Tobu Urban Park Line to Shimizu Koen Station. The park entrance is just a 5-minute walk from the station. It's the easiest and most convenient way to get there.
• By car: Drive via the Joban Expressway and take the Noda IC exit. Parking is available near the park, but spots fill up quickly during peak bloom, so arriving early is recommended.
• From Tokyo: Take the Tobu Urban Park Line from Kita-Senju Station. The ride takes about 50 minutes, making it a quick and easy getaway from the city.
• From Narita or Haneda Airport: Both Narita Airport and Haneda Airport offer train connections to Noda City, so international visitors can reach the festival without hassle.

Since this is one of Chiba’s top cherry blossom festivals, expect crowds – arriving early gives you the best chance of grabbing a prime hanami spot.

Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Policy

If you're planning a hanami picnic or carrying camera gear for cherry blossom photography, keep in mind that bag restrictions may be in place to manage crowd flow. Small backpacks and handbags are usually allowed, but large luggage and coolers may not be permitted within festival grounds.

For visitors bringing extra bags, coin lockers may be available near Shimizu Koen Station or at select spots in the park. However, these tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak bloom in late March and early April. As with many cherry blossom festivals in Japan, it’s always best to check the official website for any last-minute updates on storage policies and restrictions.

Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Explore the Festival Hands-Free with Bounce

If you'd rather enjoy the festival without carrying extra bags, you can store your luggage in Tokyo, Narita, Chiba, and other key cities with Bounce. If you're traveling from these areas, simply drop off your bags before departure and pick them up when you return.

• Affordable: Store your bags for as low as ¥400 per day.
• Safe & Secure: Your belongings are secured up to ¥1,000,000, so you can enjoy the festival stress-free.
• 24/7 Support: Need help? Bounce’s support team is available anytime.
• Free Cancellation: Plans changed? Cancel for free before drop-off.

How to Store Your Bags with Bounce

1. Find a spot – Use the Bounce app or website to locate and book bag storage near Tokyo, Narita, or Chiba.
2. Drop off your bags – Drop off the bags at your chosen location and store your items securely.
3. Enjoy the festival – Explore the sakura, take photos, and join hanami parties without heavy bags slowing you down.

Tips to Make the Most of Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

• Check the bloom forecast – Cherry blossom season depends on weather conditions, so check updates before your visit.
• Arrive early – The best hanami spots get taken fast, especially on weekends.
• Dress for the weather – Spring in Chiba can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 8–18 C (46–64 F). Bring a light jacket just in case.
• Explore beyond the park – Take a short trip to Kikkōman Soy Sauce Museum or visit nearby Mount Fuji cherry blossom spots for even more breathtaking sakura views.
• Skip the baggage hassle – Store your bags with Bounce so you can roam the festival hands-free.

If you love cherry blossoms but want something beyond the usual Tokyo hotspots, Shimizu Park is a fantastic choice. Gorgeous sakura, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and a historical setting: what’s not to love?

So pack a tasty picnic, grab your camera, and head to Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 for an unforgettable spring day. And if you’re carrying extra bags, you know what to do – store them with Bounce and enjoy the festival stress-free!