Located in the eastern part of Tokyo, the Oyoko River is one of those spots that feels like a hidden gem. It’s a 700-meter stretch of about 90 to 100 kawazu sakura trees, lining the riverbank from Sawami Bridge to Shigemori Bridge. These trees are known for their vivid pink blossoms, a much deeper hue than the pale pink Somei Yoshino cherries you usually see in late March.
I first discovered this place when researching the best places to see kawazu sakura in Japan. It’s close to Kiba Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line—literally just a few minutes from Exit 1. What I love about the Oyoko River cherry blossoms is how peaceful it is. Even during peak bloom, you won’t see massive crowds like you’d find at Ueno Park or Meguro River. It’s just a serene walkway where you can stroll, enjoy the scenery, and snap some beautiful photos.
Why Visit the Oyoko River Kawazu Cherry Blossoms?
- Early Blooming: Kawazu sakura blooms earlier than other cherry blossoms, typically from late February to mid-March. It’s a head start on hanami season.
- Vivid Pink Flowers: These blossoms are a striking shade of pink, creating a vibrant contrast against the gray of the cityscape.
- Scenic Walkway: The path along the river is well-maintained, making it easy to stroll and take in the beauty of the trees.
My Experience Strolling Along the Oyoko River
The first thing that struck me when I visited was how quiet it was. There were maybe a handful of people walking along the river, and that was it. No vendors, no big groups—just a simple, peaceful spot to enjoy the blossoms. The trees are planted pretty closely together, so when they’re in full bloom, it feels like walking through a pink tunnel.
The only downside is that there isn’t really any space for picnics or lounging around. It’s more of a “walk and enjoy” kind of spot. If you’re planning to make a day of it, I recommend coupling your visit with a stop at nearby Kiba Park, which has more open spaces and even a café. That way, you can enjoy the blossoms and then relax with some coffee or snacks afterward.
Video
Oyoko River is featured in this video about the best places to see kawazu sakura in Japan. The segment starts at 3:49.
Travel Tips
- When to Go: Visit between late February and mid-March for the best views. Kawazu sakura blossoms tend to stick around longer than Somei Yoshino, so you have a good window to catch them.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes and your camera.
- Nearby Attractions: After your stroll, head to Kiba Park or check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, both within walking distance.
How to Get to Oyoko River
The Oyoko River cherry blossoms are super easy to access. From Tokyo Metro Tozai Line’s Kiba Station, take Exit 1, and you’ll be there in just a few minutes. The cherry blossom trees line the riverbank, so you can’t miss them.
Calm & Quiet
The Oyoko River Kawazu Cherry Blossoms might not have the flashy crowds or the big hanami energy of other spots in Tokyo, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a quiet, unassuming place to enjoy the early blooms without the hassle. If you’re in the area, it’s worth a visit—and pairing it with a trip to Kiba Park makes for a lovely little outing. Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking in the first signs of spring, this spot has a charm all its own.
