Nestled near Oji Station in Tokyo’s Kita Ward, Otonashi Water Park—also known as Otonashi Shinsui Park—offers a serene and nostalgic hanami experience. With its Edo-period-inspired design, flowing stream, and charming wooden bridges, this park is a hidden gem among Tokyo’s urban cherry blossom spots. Home to around 350 cherry trees and famous for its quiet ambiance, it’s a perfect alternative to the more crowded parks nearby. Nighttime illuminations during cherry blossom season further enhance its dreamy atmosphere.

Why Otonashi Water Park is Worth Visiting

• Edo-style Atmosphere: Traditional landscaping and structures evoke a historical Japanese charm, offering a peaceful setting for hanami.
• Quieter Alternative: Less crowded than nearby spots like Asukayama Park, making it ideal for a relaxed cherry blossom outing.
• Picturesque Scenery: Cherry blossoms over a stream, water wheels, and arched bridges create a postcard-worthy setting.
• Top-rated Urban Park: Recognized as one of Japan’s 100 best urban parks, it delivers both natural beauty and thoughtful design.

Otonashi Water Park Cherry Blossoms

The park features around 350 cherry trees, primarily Somei Yoshino and Kanhi-zakura, that stretch along a scenic 900-meter path. These trees form a floral tunnel that follows the stream channel through the park, offering continuous views of soft pink blooms reflected on the water’s surface.

Best Viewing Spots

• The Wooden Bridge: Offers a panoramic view of blossoms lining the waterway.
• Stream Channel: Stroll along the winding path and enjoy blossoms cascading over the gentle stream.
• Water Wheel Area: This iconic feature surrounded by cherry blossoms is especially photogenic.
• Historic Features: Sites like the reconstructed Funatsukibashi Bridge and the remains of Gongen Falls enhance the atmosphere with a sense of history.

Facilities & Amenities

The park is equipped with a water play area open from 9 AM to 4 PM, featuring clean water maintained by a filtration system. While cherry blossom viewing is available 24 hours a day, the water area is more active in the warmer months. Benches are scattered throughout the park, providing spots to rest or enjoy a picnic. Public restrooms are available, making it family-friendly and convenient.

Dining Options

There are no dedicated food stalls within the park during the cherry blossom season, but the surrounding area offers plenty of excellent local dining options. Try Ougiya, a traditional shop specializing in thick, sweet Japanese omelets, or Sansanto, a well-known ramen shop popular with locals. Many visitors opt to bring their own food for a picnic under the blossoms, especially during lunch hours.

Travel Tips

• Best Night View Timing: Visit between 17:38 and 17:58 for the most photogenic twilight moments.
• Photography Etiquette: Tripods are allowed during light-up events, but use them with consideration for other visitors.
• Plan a Dual Visit: Combine your trip with nearby Asukayama Park for an extended cherry blossom experience.
• Avoid Crowds: Visit on weekdays or early mornings for a more peaceful atmosphere.

How to Get to Otonashi Water Park

Otonashi Water Park is just a 1-minute walk from JR Oji Station (Keihin-Tohoku Line or Tokyo Metro Namboku Line) or a 2-minute walk from Oji Ekimae Station on the Toden Arakawa Line. Its central location makes it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.

Nearby Attractions

• Asukayama Park: A popular cherry blossom spot with museums, a monorail for kids, and wide open picnic areas.
• Paper Museum: Located within Asukayama Park, this museum explores the history and culture of papermaking in Japan.
• Kita City Asukayama Museum: A small but engaging local history museum, ideal for a short cultural visit after hanami.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Rikugien Garden: Famous for its weeping cherry tree and traditional Japanese landscaping, about 15 minutes away by train.
• Koishikawa Korakuen: A blend of Chinese and Japanese design elements, offering seasonal beauty and tranquil ponds.
• Ueno Park: One of Tokyo’s most iconic cherry blossom destinations, lively and bustling with hanami parties and street food.