Spring in Tokyo is always magical, and in 2026 one of the city’s most beloved seasonal events is making its return. The Chiyoda Sakura Festival will once again transform the area around the Imperial Palace into a stunning cherry blossom destination, offering visitors the chance to enjoy both daytime hanami and breathtaking nighttime illuminations.
A Spring Celebration in the Heart of Tokyo
The Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2026 will take place from March 5 to April 22, bringing weeks of spring celebrations to Chiyoda City. During this period, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms blooming across some of Tokyo’s most iconic spots, particularly around the scenic Chidorigafuchi moat near the Imperial Palace.
Every year, the festival attracts large crowds eager to witness the seasonal beauty of sakura trees lining the moat. The area around Chidorigafuchi Greenway is especially famous, drawing around a million visitors annually thanks to its picturesque views and peaceful walking paths.
One of Tokyo’s Best Cherry Blossom Spots
Chidorigafuchi is widely considered one of Tokyo’s top sakura viewing locations. The greenway is lined with a variety of cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Oshima cherry, forming a beautiful pink corridor during peak bloom.
The area’s unique setting, where cherry blossoms frame the historic moat of the Imperial Palace, makes it a favorite spot for both locals and international visitors. From peaceful daytime walks to romantic nighttime views, the scenery offers a truly classic Japanese spring experience.
Chidorigafuchi Night Sakura Illumination
One of the biggest highlights of the festival is the nighttime cherry blossom illumination, often called yozakura. During the peak bloom period from late March to early April, hundreds of cherry trees along the 700-meter greenway are gently illuminated after sunset.
The soft lighting reflects off the water of the moat, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that feels completely different from daytime viewing. Evening strolls beneath glowing pink blossoms have become one of Tokyo’s most memorable spring experiences.
For an even more special perspective, visitors can also rent a boat at Chidorigafuchi Boat Pier. During the illumination period, the boating hours are often extended so guests can enjoy the glowing cherry blossoms from the water itself.
‘My Happy Marriage’ Anime Stamp Rally Adds Extra Fun to the Chiyoda Sakura Festival
This year’s Chiyoda Sakura Festival will also feature a special collaboration with the popular anime My Happy Marriage. From March 11 to April 22, visitors can take part in a themed stamp rally titled “Spring in Chiyoda: Sakura Yui Meguri.” Participants will explore the Chiyoda area while visiting five designated stamp points set up around the district.
By collecting stamps at each location, visitors can enjoy a relaxing city walk while discovering different spots across Chiyoda. Those who complete all the stamps can head to the Chiyoda Tourist Information Center to receive a special participation novelty gift. Fans can also take photos with life-sized character panels displayed at each rally location, making the experience even more memorable for anime lovers visiting the festival.
A Must-Visit Festival for Sakura Lovers
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Event Title: Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2026
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Event Dates: March 5 – April 22, 2026
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Admission: Free admission. Boat rentals at the Chidorigafuchi Boat Pier require a fee, and visitors can also purchase advance smart tickets to reserve a boat and skip the queue during busy periods. For details on boat rentals and advance tickets, please visit: Chidorigafuchi Boat Pier Information & Smart Tickets
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Venue: Chidorigafuchi Greenway and Chidorigafuchi Boat Pier, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
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Access:
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About a 5-minute walk from Kudanshita Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Tozai Line, Toei Shinjuku Line)
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About a 5-minute walk from Hanzomon Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
With its iconic cherry blossom scenery, magical night illuminations, and festive atmosphere, the Chiyoda Sakura Festival 2026 promises another unforgettable spring celebration in Tokyo.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan during cherry blossom season, a stroll along the illuminated paths of Chidorigafuchi might just become one of the most memorable moments of your journey.
