Fine Dining in Tokyo with Breathtaking Cherry Blossom Views

Cherry Blossom Season in Tokyo

Cherry blossoms are the quintessential flower of Japan’s spring. They bloom all over the country, signaling the arrival of the season. The "cherry blossom front," which marks the blooming progress from south to north, is announced every year. The blossoms typically begin in southern Japan around mid-March, making their way northward to the Kansai and Kanto regions by late March, and finally reaching Hokkaido between late April and early May. The blooming period lasts about a month and a half, with peak bloom occurring about a week after the flowers open, and lasting another week before they start to fade. Since Tokyo and Osaka are aligned almost perfectly east and west of each other, the bloom dates are nearly identical.

Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo

Tokyo is home to some of the most iconic cherry blossom spots. Notable locations include the cherry tree-lined moats around the Imperial Palace, Ueno Park, which also houses the Ueno Zoo, and the cherry blossom trees along the Sumida River near Asakusa. For younger crowds, the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River in Nakameguro are especially popular.

Japanese Culture: Hanami

In Japan, hanami is a cherished tradition where people gather to enjoy food and drinks while admiring the beauty of cherry blossoms. Since the bloom lasts for only about 10 days, hanami is a way to celebrate and savor the fleeting beauty of the sakura. It’s common for friends or colleagues to enjoy outdoor meals, such as hot pot or barbecue, under the blossoms. Both the sakura glowing in the daylight and those illuminated at night are equally enchanting.

Enjoying Cherry Blossoms While Dining

For those seeking a more luxurious and relaxed way to experience hanami, restaurants offering views of the cherry blossoms or located near cherry tree-lined streets are ideal. After enjoying the blossoms, you can continue the experience with a delicious meal while still immersed in the beauty of the sakura.

In this article, we highlight top restaurants that blend the charm of cherry blossoms with exceptional dining, including Michelin Guide-listed spots, perfect for making your trip to Japan unforgettable.

5 Fine Dining in Tokyo with Breathtaking Cherry Blossom Views

1. Plaiga TOKYO (プレーガ 東京) / French / Tokyo Station

Selected Restaurant

Michelin Guide, 2025

Plaiga TOKYO is a French restaurant that has earned a spot in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years, starting in 2023. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the Wada-Kura moat of the Imperial Palace, where you can admire cherry blossoms in full bloom during the spring. The culinary concept is "A journey through Japan's four seasons," featuring French dishes crafted from seasonal Japanese ingredients by a Japanese chef. One standout dish, "Tsuya-hime, Hair Crab, Seasonal Attire," features a rice-based mousse. The presentation changes with the seasons, and in spring, it incorporates a cherry blossom motif. Guests are invited to enjoy the cherry blossoms both outside the window and on the plate.

2. Tsukiji Jisaku (つきじ治作) / Japanese / Tsukiji

Tsukiji Jisaku is a Japanese restaurant located in Tsukiji Akashicho, near Ginza, with a spacious and beautiful garden. The garden features a variety of trees, including cherry blossoms. As you walk through the restaurant’s gate and along the garden path, the cherry blossoms in full bloom create a breathtaking view of spring. Every room offers a view of the garden, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while taking in the blossoms. With a history spanning 90 years, this traditional Japanese restaurant offers dishes that honor long-standing culinary traditions. The menu includes various courses, from kaiseki (traditional Japanese-style cuisine) to Kyushu-style chicken hot pot and more.

3. Nakasei Koishikawa (中勢以 小石川店) / Steak / Bunkyo

Nakasei Koishikawa, a Michelin-starred steakhouse, is also ranked among Japan's Top 100 steakhouses on a major gourmet review website. The restaurant is located along Harima-zaka, one of Tokyo's iconic cherry blossom-lined streets. As you make your way to the restaurant, both sidewalks are lined with cherry blossom trees, creating a tunnel of blossoms no matter which path you take. While the restaurant doesn’t offer views of the cherry blossoms from the inside, you can still enjoy the lingering beauty of the cherry blossoms as you begin your meal. The carefully selected Kuroge Wagyu beef is aged for two months to enhance its rich flavor, which is then used in the dishes. The skill of the chef, who is a true expert in meat, shines through in every dish. When paired with meticulously chosen wines, it’s an experience that leaves you truly satisfied.

4. Tempura Motoyoshi (天ぷら 元吉) / Ebisu Station (JR), 5-min Walk

Tempura Motoyoshi, a tempura (lightly battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood) specialty restaurant awarded two Michelin stars, is also ranked among Japan's Top 100 tempura restaurants on a major gourmet review website. The restaurant’s counter is decorated with seasonal trees on the ceiling, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. During cherry blossom season, the ceiling is adorned with full-bloom sakura, offering a rare opportunity to experience "hanami" indoors. After being welcomed by the beauty of the sakura, guests can savor expertly crafted tempura. And as you look up, the blossoms greet you once more, ensuring a truly unforgettable dining experience.

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5. Series the Sky (シリーズザスカイ) / -

Series the Sky is a restaurant that opened in 2023 as the second location of a Chinese restaurant, which has earned a Michelin star for four consecutive years. Situated on the 31st floor of the Tokyo Skytree, a must-see landmark for tourists in Tokyo, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River. The stunning scene is reminiscent of pink clouds drifting over the river. Executive Chef Yuki Kaneko, who has honed his skills at several renowned establishments, creates dishes that fuse traditional Chinese flavors with spices from across Asia. Each course is paired with carefully chosen wines and cocktails, thoughtfully selected by sommeliers and bartenders to enhance the "harmony" between the food and drinks.