Exchanging Spring | The Quiet Charm of Kanda River

#cherryblossom25 Since coming to Japan, cherry blossom viewing each year has become second nature. TV programs constantly broadcast the blooming forecasts from all over, and stores roll out their seasonal sakura-themed treats. 🌸🍡 Besides Kanda River and Kawagoe, I’ve visited many other spots this year. Some didn’t make it into my video due to bad weather or too many crowds, but here’s my personal list of Tokyo’s best cherry blossom destinations: Kanda River ★★★★★ Less crowded than Meguro River, especially near Ochiai Station. Fewer selfie crowds, and it's close to Waseda University — there’s a truly academic and tranquil vibe to it. Kawagoe ★★★★☆ Just 40 minutes from Shinjuku — food, drinks, and sakura all in one. Go about 7 days after full bloom for a chance to see petals completely covering the river like a pink carpet. Moto-Arakawa ★★★★☆ A hidden gem: peaceful and beautiful. Locals even organize small concerts here (I’ll tease the next one in my next post hehe). Kumagaya Sakura Embankment ★★★☆☆ Near Moto-Arakawa, it’s a double delight of cherry blossoms + yellow rapeseed flowers. Has food stalls, but a bit more crowded. Tachikawa Park ★★☆☆☆ Pretty, but relatively small. Nikaryō Waterway ★★★☆☆ Quiet and lovely riverside sakura. A bit compact but charming. Ueno ★★★☆☆ Great cherry blossom viewing with trolleys and city scenery, but the park gets super crowded. Shibuya Sakurazaka ★★☆☆☆ Last year’s lanterns are gone, so not quite as picturesque now, and the crowds are intense. #travel