The Cherry Blossoms of Tokyo's Meguro River

Meguro River, flowing from Setagaya Ward to Shinagawa Ward in Tokyo, is very famous for its beautiful sakura cherry blossom trees between late March and early April.

In Meguro Ward, the river is about 3.8km long and there are more than 800 cherry trees there. The full force of their blooming is clear during the hanami season.

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The cherry blossoms were planted in 1927. But due to World War II, their numbers decreased. Following the war, more trees were planted by locals. The species planted was the "Someiyoshino", the typical Japanese cherry blossom.

These days, cherry blossoms, known as "sakura" in Japanese, are becoming quite popular around the world and many overseas visitors come to see them. The sakura in the Nakameguro area is particularly popular, including nighttime illuminated ones known as "yozakura." There are many restaurants and cafe in the area so that you can view the sakura from the restaurant.

There is also the popular "Meguro River Cruise" where you can see the blooming sakura from the river. Booking early is highly recommended if you are interested.

Meguro River has been loved by many people since Edo times. Ando Hiroshige, a ukiyoe artist, featured the river in his prints, along with Mt.Fuji and the beautiful landscape there.

There are some parks near the river where you can enjoy Ohanami with friends and families. You can walk to Ebisu Station while watching the beautiful sakura as well as enjoying some shopping and spend a fulfilling day. There are, of course, many places to eat along the way.

If you travel to Japan in spring, I recommend viewing the sakura along the river. You will be quite impressed!