Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2025

Step into a fairytale of fluttering petals and glowing lanterns at the Chiyoda Sakura Festival, where cherry blossoms transform Chidorigafuchi into a breathtaking spring wonderland!

The Chiyoda Sakura Festival is a wonderful celebration of Tokyo's famous cherry blossoms, which came from Japan's love for hanami (flower viewing). Held in Chidorigafuchi, a historic area near the Imperial Palace, this festival goes way back to the centuries-old tradition of admiring sakura as a fleeting symbol of beauty and renewal. Once a tranquil samurai garden, Chidorigafuchi has transformed into one of the city’s most stunning cherry blossom spots, where 230 sakura trees bloom in a pink explosion each spring.

Important info: The peak bloom for cherry blossoms in Chiyoda typically falls between late March and early April, but the exact timing varies due to weather. If you want to see the sakura at their best, check forecasts a few days before your visit.

Remember, the festival dates are from March 12 to April 23, so you can still enjoy the beautiful atmosphere, peaceful walks, and cultural activities even if you miss the peak bloom.

What to Expect When Attending the Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2025

The Cherry Blossom Festival in Chiyoda provides an awe-inspiring experience featuring some of Tokyo's most beautiful sakuras. Here's what you can anticipate and activities you can enjoy:

Daytime cherry blossom viewing: During the day, you can take a stroll along the Chidorigafuchi Green Way, where cherry trees bloom in full glory. The delicate petals set against the Imperial Palace moat paint an idyllic picture. Expect to see locals and tourists enjoying hanami, taking photos, and having picnics in nearby parks.

Nighttime illuminations: One of the festival's highlights is the nighttime illumination of the cherry blossoms, which takes place from March 28 to April 8. From sunset until 9 PM, energy-efficient solar-powered LED lights illuminate the trees, casting a magical glow over the area. This creates an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for evening walks and photography.

Boat rides on the moat: A unique way to enjoy the cherry blossoms is by renting a boat on the Chidorigafuchi moat. This allows you to admire the blossoms from the water while rowing beneath the delicate petals. Boat rental prices are around 800 yen (~$5.40) per 30 minutes or 1,600 yen (~$10.80) per hour. Due to high demand, it's recommended to book in advance at the boat dock.

Festival activities and atmosphere: While focusing on cherry blossoms, the festival also includes cultural performances, food stalls, and souvenir vendors in surrounding areas. You can find traditional Japanese sweets, matcha (special green tea), and seasonal sakura-themed snacks.

You can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in Chiyoda City for free! Bring cash to enjoy delicious treats or a peaceful boat ride.

In Tokyo, March temperatures usually range from 6 C to 13 C (42 F to 55 F). As spring progresses, April brings warmer temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 19 C (66 F). Begin with a light shirt, add a sweater or jacket, and keep a waterproof outer layer for temperature changes and rain. Also, carry an umbrella or rain poncho to stay dry during unexpected showers!

Security Protocols

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the festival follows key security protocols, including crowd control measures, designated entry and exit points, and on-site security personnel patrolling the area. Visitors are encouraged to follow signs, stay on marked pathways, and avoid overcrowded areas, especially during the nighttime illuminations.

For safety, drones aren't allowed, and picnicking may be restricted in certain areas (like along the Green Way). In case of emergencies, first aid stations and lost & found booths are available near major entrances. Just relax, enjoy the sakura, and follow the festival guidelines for a smooth and memorable visit!

How to Get To or From the Event

Here's how to reach Chidorigafuchi Green Way:

• Train (Subway): One of the best ways to reach the festival is by train. You can take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Tozai Line, or Toei Shinjuku Line to Kudanshita Station. From there, it’s just a five-minute walk from Exit 2 to Chidorigafuchi Green Way. Another option is to take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Hanzomon Station and exit through Exit 5, which also leads to the festival area within a five-minute walk.
• Bus: If you prefer traveling by bus, several Toei Bus routes stop near Kudanshita and Hanzomon Stations.

If you're already near the Imperial Palace, you can enjoy a pleasant walk from the Nippon Budokan area to reach Chidorigafuchi. This route allows you to take in the beauty of the surrounding gardens before arriving at the festival.

Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2025 Bag Policy

The Chiyoda Sakura Festival follows a light bag policy to ensure smooth crowd movement and security. While small backpacks, handbags, and personal items are allowed, large suitcases, oversized bags, and bulky items are restricted, especially in crowded areas like Chidorigafuchi Green Way and the boat rental zone. You can expect bag checks at certain entry points. To make your visit hassle-free, it's best to pack light, keep valuables secure, and avoid bringing unnecessary items.

Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Bags With Bounce and Admire Sakuras

If you're traveling with luggage, you won't have to worry — Bounce will securely store it for you!

Just explore Tokyo (nearby Yokohama, Nagoya, or Kyoto) and choose a convenient spot to drop off your bags.

The price is affordable - just ¥400 per day, and each booking includes ¥1,000,000 in bag protection. Also, the Bounce support team is available 24/7 to answer all your questions. Change of plans? We won't charge you if you have to cancel before checking in.

How to Stow Your Bag at the Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2025 With Bounce

• Book: Choose a spot, book, and pay online.
• Store your bags: Bring your payment confirmation and drop off your belongings at the chosen store.
• Soak in the beauty: Enjoy your visit to Japan and make special memories!

How to Make the Most Out of the Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2025

• Come early or stay late: Beat the crowds by visiting in the early morning for peaceful views or at night for the dreamy illuminations.
• Capture the magic: Best photo spots? Try the Chidorigafuchi Walkway, moat boat rides, and the Imperial Palace backdrop.
• Row under the blossoms: Rent a boat on the moat for a one-of-a-kind, postcard-worthy experience.
• Savor seasonal treats: Don’t miss sakura mochi, matcha sweets, and festival street food from food trucks!
• Dress for the occasion: Elevate your hanami vibes by wearing a kimono or pastel colors for perfect pictures.
• Be weather-ready: Spring showers? Bring a light jacket and a cute transparent umbrella for dreamy rain-kissed photos!

Don’t miss your chance to step into a dreamy sea of pink at the Chiyoda Sakura Festival—where exceptional blossoms, glowing nightscapes, and unforgettable moments await!