Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Springtime in Tokyo means one thing – cherry blossoms! And there’s no better place to see them than at Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, or the Ueno Sakura Festival (上野桜まつり). Held in Ueno Park, this annual festival transforms the park into a sea of pink with over 1,200 cherry trees in bloom. This is the ultimate cherry blossom viewing spot to experience sakura season in Tokyo!

Running from late March to early April 2025 (exact dates depend on the blooming period), the festival attracts millions of visitors who gather under the trees for hanami – the tradition of flower viewing while enjoying food, drinks, and good company. As the sun sets, the cherry blossom light-up makes the park even more magical, with 800 lanterns illuminating the pathways.

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

History of Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival

Ueno’s cherry blossom celebration has deep roots in Japanese culture, dating back to the Edo period. Around 400 years ago, the monk Tenkai brought cherry saplings from Mt. Yoshino and planted them in Ueno, laying the foundation for what is now one of Tokyo’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots.

By the late 1800s, Ueno Park became a public space famous for its spring hanami gatherings. As cherry blossom season became a beloved tradition, the modern festival, Ueno Sakura Matsuri, was established to continue the celebration. Today, the festival attracts millions of visitors each spring, preserving a centuries-old tradition in the heart of Taito City.

What to Expect at Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most famous cherry blossom spots, and for a good reason. The central pathway is lined with Somei Yoshino cherry trees, creating a stunning pink tunnel. But it’s not just about the blossoms – there’s plenty more to explore:

• Hanami under the trees – Arrive early to claim a picnic spot, as the best spaces fill up fast. Locals bring blue tarps, bento boxes, and plenty of drinks to enjoy under the blossoms.
• Nighttime illumination – When night falls, hundreds of paper lanterns light up the trees, creating a dreamy, picture-perfect scene.
• Cultural experiences – Expect live music, traditional performances, and occasional tea ceremonies, adding a touch of Japanese culture to your visit.
• Food stalls – No festival is complete without delicious street food. Try yakitori, taiyaki, and cherry blossom-themed sweets while strolling through the park.

For those who want a break from the crowds, Shinobazu Pond, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, and the Tokyo National Museum offer peaceful retreats within the park.

Tickets for Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Good news – Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is free and open to the public! There’s no admission fee to enter Ueno Park, so visitors can walk around freely and find the perfect spot to enjoy cherry blossoms. However, nearby attractions within the park, such as the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, and art galleries, have their own entrance fees. Since this is one of Tokyo's busiest cherry blossom festivals, it’s best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially on weekends.

How to Get to Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's most famous cherry blossom spots, so expect it to be crowded during peak bloom. Public transportation is the best way to get there, as roads near the park can be congested, and parking is extremely limited.

• By train – The most convenient way is via Ueno Station, one of Tokyo’s major railway hubs. Take the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Utsunomiya Line, or Joban Line and exit at Ueno Station’s Park Exit – you’ll step right into Ueno Onshi Park.
• By subway – The Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Hibiya Line stops at Ueno Station and offers easy access from areas like Ginza, Shibuya, and Roppongi. From the station, follow the signs toward Ueno Park.
• By bus – Several Toei and local buses stop near Ueno Park, which is a good alternative if you’re staying outside central Tokyo. Check bus routes from Asakusa, Akihabara, or Tokyo Station.
• By taxi – While convenient, taxis may take longer due to heavy festival traffic. If you're traveling from Shinjuku or Shibuya, a train or subway will be much faster.
• From Narita or Haneda Airport – If you’re coming directly from the airport, take the Keisei Skyliner from Narita Airport to Ueno Station (about 40 minutes) or the Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line from Haneda Airport (about 35 minutes).

Pro Tip: If you want a smooth travel experience, avoid rush hours (8–9 AM and 5–7 PM) and arrive early to secure a great hanami spot!

Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Policy

With so many visitors coming for the cherry blossom season, space in the park can get tight. While the festival is free to enter, there are some things to keep in mind:

• Large bags and suitcases are not recommended, as the pathways get crowded.
• Food and drinks are allowed, but coolers and large containers might not be permitted in some areas.
• Tripods and professional camera equipment may have restrictions, especially during peak hours.

For the latest rules, check the official Tokyo tourism website before your visit.

Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Enjoy Ueno Park Without the Extra Luggage

Dragging your bags around during hanami? That’s a sure way to miss out on the fun. Instead, store your stuff with Bounce and enjoy Ueno Park hands-free:

• Affordable Storage – Drop off your bags for as low as ¥400 per day.
• Safe & Secure – Your belongings are protected with ¥1,000,000 coverage.
• Convenient Locations – Find storage spots near Ueno Station and surrounding areas.
• 24/7 Support – Need help? Our customer service is available anytime.
• Free Cancellation – If your plans change, you can cancel at no extra cost.

How to Store Your Bags with Bounce

Using Bounce to store your bags is simple:

1. Find a location – Use the Bounce app or website to choose a bag storage spot near Ueno Park.
2. Drop off your bags – Head to the chosen location, show your booking confirmation, and store your belongings securely.
3. Enjoy the festival – Stroll through Tokyo Ueno Park, snap cherry blossom photos, and relax without heavy bags.

Tips to Make the Most of Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

• Arrive early – The best cherry blossom viewing spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
• Check the bloom forecast – Full bloom lasts only about a week, so plan accordingly.
• Dress for the weather – March to early April in Tokyo can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 8 C to 16 C (46 F to 61 F). Bring a jacket, especially for nighttime hanami.
• Visit museums nearby – The Tokyo National Museum and art galleries in Taito City are great stops when you need a break from the crowds.
• Stay for nighttime illumination – The lantern-lit cherry blossoms create a completely different atmosphere.
• Skip the baggage hassle – Use Bounce to store your bags and enjoy the festival worry-free.

Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 is a once-a-year chance to enjoy cherry blossoms in one of Tokyo’s most iconic locations. Grab your picnic mat, bring some friends, and get ready for a classic hanami experience!