Catch early-blooming sakura at Nishigahara Minnano Park in Tokyo, Japan
Did you know that Japan actually has many different kinds of sakura? The most popular one is of the Somei Yoshino variety, which typically reaches full bloom at the end of March to early April. The Somei Yoshino sakuras are the most common, accounting for almost 80% of all cherry blossom trees in Japan.
However, unbeknownst to many, you can actually enjoy sakura in all its glory — sans the crowds. The Kawazu Zakura variety is known as the early-blooming winter sakura, and typically blooms between early February to early March. If you’re late to the game, the Yaezakura variety also makes its appearance around late April.
Unlike Somei Yoshino that’s usually pale pink and whitish, the Kawazu Zakura are a deeper pink in colour. Places to marvel at the Kawazu Zakura include Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Yoyogi Park, and Shiba Park.
We made a trip out to the residential Nishigahara Minnano Park in North Tokyo, and found a whole row of sakura trees there too! The best part? We loved how we were able to gain insight into the lives of locals — kids clambered all over the playground with raucous glee, or frolicked under the sakura trees. The atmosphere here was relaxed and convivial, much unlike the usual tourist hotspots.
You’ll even find an overhead sakura canopy at the beginning of the walkway, which is lined with around seven to eight sakura trees.
The little one was incredibly intrigued by the petals — now, this is something that we don't get in Singapore!
Tip: visit in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light. The afternoon light (especially on a bright sunny day) might prove to be a little too harsh when photographing the blooms.
When in full bloom, the sakuras are bountiful, allowing you to be completely surrounded by them.
You won’t be able to enjoy a hanami picnic under the trees, but there are plenty of benches for you to relax at. Time almost slows down at this park — enjoy it!
How to get to Nishigahara Minnano Park
From Shinjuku, take the Yamanote line to Otsuka station. Next, transfer to a local tram at Otsuka-ekimae station, and alight at Nishigahara-yonchome station. From the station, it’s an easy 4-minute walk to Nishigahara Minnano Park.
The tram is called the ‘Tokyo Sakura Tram’, and is the only Toden tram line left in the city. It serves the Northern part of the city, running through the residential areas of Waseda to Minowabashi. Hop on for a ride in spring, where you can enjoy magnificent sakura views from the tram — hence its name. The tram fare is JPY170 (~SGD1.70) for adults; otherwise, you can get a one-day ticket for JPY400 (~SGD4). Bet you never knew that there were trams in Tokyo, huh.
So, if you happen to be in Tokyo at the end of February to the beginning of March, why not go on a Kawazu Zakura hunt? They last longer than the Somei Yoshino variety, so you’re bound to find some!
