One of the best opportunities to try a traditional Japanese cherry blossom festival with all the trimmings, the Edo Fukagawa Matsuri (Festival) has illuminations, boat rides, and plenty of food.
What happens?
The event takes place in the quiet neighborhood of Monzen-Nakacho with wasen boat rides offered on the nearby river. There are also motorboat rides during the day and evening.
There will still be illuminations from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., as well as food stalls and entertainment on the weekends, with plenty of cherry blossoms — so if you’re feeling traditional, this is the one for you!
Traditional boat cherry blossom cruises
Tickets for a traditional boat ride cost ¥1,000 per person for 30 minutes and will take place on weekends and holidays (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) during the festival. You must register on the day from 9:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. for a spot on a boat. We suggest getting there earlier as spots fill up fast, but you are not allowed to start queuing till 30 minutes before it opens. You may not be able to choose the time of the cruise.
Motorboat cherry blossom cruises
Prices start from around ¥3,300 for a 40-minute ride. There are options starting from Nishonbashi Pier, Kurofune Bridge Pier, Kurofunebashi Pier, and along Meguro River, as well as night cruises.
When do cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo?
Make sure to check our Tokyo cherry blossom forecast to keep up to date. For all the blossoms, see our Best Cherry Blossoms Spots in Tokyo Mega Guide, for late-night views, check out our guide to Yozakura events and for elsewhere in Japan check our forecast!
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.