Fussa Tamagawa River Cherry Blossoms

A 2.5 km riverside tunnel of cherry trees in western Tokyo

Spot: Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment (福生多摩川堤防沿いの桜並木)
Blooming Period: Late March to Early April
Hanami Parties: Allowed
Light-up Event: March 15–April 13, 2025 (Sunset–9:00 PM)
Festival: Fussa Sakura Matsuri – Mar 29 to 30,2025
Food Stalls: Available
Cherry Blossom Varieties: Somei Yoshino
Reccomended Viewing Spots: From Fussa Minami Park to Mutsumi Bridge
Business Hours: Open 24 hours

Stretching along the banks of the Tama River in Fussa City, the Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment is one of Tokyo‘s premier cherry blossom spots. This 2.5-kilometer riverside promenade features about 500 magnificent Somei Yoshino cherry trees, forming a tunnel of soft pink blooms each spring. With views that blend flowing water and floral elegance, it offers a scenic and peaceful hanami experience. The area comes alive during the annual “Fussa Sakura Matsuri,” featuring events, food stalls, and nighttime light-ups.

Why Visit Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment

  • Cherry Blossom Tunnel Walks: The stretch from Fussa Minami Park to Mutsumi Bridge is known for forming a stunning tunnel of cherry blossoms, ideal for romantic walks or family outings.
  • Local Sakura Festival: The annual Fussa Sakura Festival brings cultural performances, local food, and a cheerful atmosphere to the area.
  • Scenic Riverside Setting: The contrast of the flowing Tamagawa River and soft pink petals makes for a peaceful and picturesque viewing experience.
  • Less Crowded Alternative: Compared to central Tokyo spots, this area offers a quieter hanami experience, especially on weekday mornings.

Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment Cherry Blossoms

The embankment is home to approximately 500 Somei Yoshino trees. These trees bloom simultaneously in late March to early April, painting the path in a uniform blush of pale pink. The full effect is especially stunning from Nagata Bridge to Mutsumi Bridge, where the cherry trees form a near-continuous canopy. The wide walking paths and proximity to the Tama River provide ideal conditions for leisurely hanami walks and photography. In the evening, paper lanterns add a traditional ambiance that enhances the experience.

Video

Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment is featured in this video about less-crowded cherry blossom spots in Tokyo. The segment starts at 00:31.

Fussa Sakura Matsuri

Held annually, the “Fussa Sakura Matsuri” is the main seasonal event in the area. The 42nd edition is scheduled for March 29 (Saturday) and March 30 (Sunday), 2025, with the festival period extending from March 15 to April 13.

  • Main Venue: Tama River Chuo Park (Genki Hiroba)
  • Event Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on event days
  • Attractions: Live performances including hula dancing,

Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment Facilities & Amenities

The main viewing area near Tamagawa Chuo Park is well-equipped with public restrooms and seating areas, making it suitable for families and elderly visitors. During the festival, temporary stalls offer food, drinks, and local products, adding to the festive feel. Trash bins and signage help maintain cleanliness, and while the terrain is mostly flat, comfortable shoes are recommended for longer walks.

Dining Options

While there are no major restaurants directly on the embankment, Fussa City has several riverside cafés and eateries. During the sakura festival, visitors can enjoy yatai (food stalls) offering light meals and local delicacies like the popular Fussa Dog. For a sit-down meal, small family-run restaurants and casual dining spots are scattered throughout Fussa’s city center and around Fussa or Haijima Station.

Travel Tips

  • Weekday Mornings Are Best – Visit on a weekday morning for a peaceful stroll under the cherry blossoms before local families and festival-goers arrive.
  • Check Local Bloom Reports – Fussa’s cherry trees bloom slightly later than central Tokyo, so monitor regional forecasts for the most accurate timing.
  • Enter via Haijima Station for a Scenic Route – The 20-minute walk from Haijima Station follows local residential streets and small riverside paths, giving a more charming lead-up to the embankment.
  • Pack Light and Dress for a Walk – The 2.5km cherry-lined path is best enjoyed on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water if visiting outside festival days.
  • Expect Limited Shade and Bring Sun Protection – While the sakura offer some cover, sunny spring days can be warm. Hats and sunscreen are recommended.
  • Photography Tip: Go to Mutsumi Bridge at Golden Hour – The view from the bridge looking down the sakura tunnel is especially beautiful at sunset.
  • Festival Days Get Busy—Arrive Early – If attending the Fussa Sakura Festival, plan to arrive before 10:00 AM to find a good spot and avoid long lines at food stalls.
  • Watch for Pop-up Stalls – While not guaranteed on non-festival days, local vendors sometimes set up near the embankment—especially on weekends—selling snacks, drinks, and crafts.

How to Get to Fussa Tamagawa River Embankment

Take the JR Ome Line to Haijima Station and walk approximately 20 minutes to reach the embankment. Alternatively, from Fussa Station, it’s a 30-minute walk. During the sakura festival, temporary parking may be available, but public transportation is advised due to expected congestion.

Nearby Attractions

  • Fussa Beer Hall – A local craft brewery offering tastings and tours, located just a short walk from Fussa Station.
  • Yokota Air Base Friendship Festival (if timing aligns) – Occasionally held in spring or summer, this open-base event includes food, music, and military demonstrations.
  • Showa Kinen Park – A spacious park with seasonal flowers, bike rentals, and family-friendly activities, located a short train ride away in Tachikawa.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

  • Hamura Weir – A historic water control site marking the start of the Tamagawa Josui, surrounded by cherry trees that bloom beautifully each spring. The riverside
  • Showa Kinen Park – Offers multiple cherry blossom zones and seasonal flower gardens.
  • Ozaku Sakura-zutsumi – A lesser-known but peaceful riverside spot near Ozaku Station.