Hanami Season (Flower viewing), the spring bloom of the sakura(cherry) trees, came a week earlier than anticipated. With it came rain that sabotaged what was to be a big event after two years of COVID. However, there was one day that the rain stopped and allowed us some time to view the blooms.
On that day I headed down to my favorite spot, the Meguro River, in Meguro, just south of Shibuya.
The river starts out as a small stream fed by tributaries that combine to make it the beautiful, small, walkable river you'll see later in this article.
The start of the river is marked by this statue, however there is a very picturesque creek before you get to this point. It is lined with sakura trees, small businesses, and homes that I envy every time I walk this route. It's worth it to walk the extra kilometer or two to take in scenes like this.
After about 5 minutes of walking from the river marker you will cross highway 246 that leads to Shibuya. This is where the Meguro river opens up to it's full size. It's also where the sakura trees begin to line both sides of the river.
I forgot to mention, my favorite time to walk this route is an hour or two before sunset. It gives you enough time to enjoy the blooms in the light, but also let's you take in the equally wonderful nighttime scenes.
From Rt. 246 the lines of people usually start and the trees are majestic, but because of the bad weather many people stayed away and the trees were only a fraction of their usual glory.
Even so, it was still well worth the visit and other sightseers started to appear the closer I got to Nakameguro station.
Interestingly the blooms also became larger the closer I got to the station.
If you are wondering, the lanterns hanging are local sponsors that financially help keep the trees maintained. They add a nice touch to the route without ruining the show the trees put on.
After about another 5 minutes of walking you will cross Rt. 317 and then the crowds really begin. There is a small, red pedestrian bridge here called the Naka bridge that is a favorite of tourists.
Just past that is the gourmet Starbucks. I've never been in though because there is always a waiting line just to enter. Life's too short for lines!
From this point vendors will be set up along the route selling all kinds of foods and alcohol. These vendors are here every year in front, or back, of the Don Quixote.
I recommend the steak on a skewer with a Corona to wash it down.
Once you are at the station the crowds become congested. So much so there are police and volunteers to move people along.
Just pat the station there is a building full of restaurants and small shops. There is a second floor walkway there that allows you to look down upon the trees and festivities.
Down below on the street, TV Asahi, a major broadcaster, was there to cover the event.
This is the point I like to turn around and walk up the other side of the river. Perfect timing as the sun begins to set and the lights come on.
This other side of the river also has more food & drink vendors.
Champagne with strawberries are always a big hit with young women.
I prefer this spot that has something for everyone. Pizza, beer, wine & champagne.
An IPA from a Kokurizawa, Nagano micro brewer hits the spot, but will set you back about $8.
As you enjoy your favorite beverage or snack day begins to turn to night.
A whole different world appears.
Even different species!
This is why I make sure to stay after the sun goes down.
As it seems most everyone else does too.
Before you know it, it's time to say sayonara to this year's hanami. It will be another year before we can see these wonderful views again. I'll be sure to be there again next year though. Perhaps you can join me for the fun too?
One last thing, here is a short video to entice you to come visit next year!
Thanks for reading!
