The cherry blossoms illuminated in pink are visible in the image

How did Japan’s cherry blossoms enchant the hearts of people in 2025?

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For Japanese people, cherry blossoms—sakura—hold a very special place in their hearts. In ancient times, their beauty was reserved for the privileged classes. However, during the Edo period, when the foundations of modern Tokyo (then Edo) were being laid, the ruling shoguns planted cherry trees in various locations such as Asukayama in Oji, so that even commoners could enjoy hanami, the tradition of flower viewing.

Cherry blossoms symbolize both the fleeting nature of life and the beauty of new beginnings. In the spring of 2025, how did these blossoms captivate people once again? Here's a look at some of the highlights.

・Chidorigafuchi Green Way Nighttime Illumination

Every year, Chiyoda Ward hosts the "Chiyoda Sakura Festival," utilizing the cherry trees spread throughout the area to hold various seasonal events. One of the most iconic among them is the nighttime illumination along the Chidorigafuchi Green Way. Located on the west side of the Imperial Palace, this 700-meter-long path is lined with cherry trees that glow in soft pink hues when lit up at night. The view of Tokyo Tower in the distance, reflected in the water alongside the illuminated blossoms, is truly breathtaking.

・IZUMI GARDEN Sakura Festival

Centered around Roppongi-itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro, the IZUMI GARDEN complex offers more than just a light-up of cherry blossoms. The area also features stunning art installations that enhance the atmosphere of spring. Especially along Izumi Street, about 220 cherry trees bloom on both sides of the road, forming a tunnel of blossoms. Two pedestrian bridges along the street allow visitors to take photos from a slightly elevated perspective. This spot is a must-visit during the sakura festival period.

The illuminated cherry blossoms at Izumi Garden are visible in the image

・Special Nighttime Illumination at Rikugien Garden

Rikugien, a renowned Japanese garden in Bunkyo Ward, hosts a "Special Nighttime Illumination" centered around its massive weeping cherry tree. This event attracts both Japanese and international visitors. In the area once known as Suiko-no-e, where water once flowed, lighting effects recreate the movement of water and make glowing lotus flowers appear to float, creating a magical scene. In the bamboo grove, soft blue lighting and the sound of the wind create an atmosphere of serene mystery. The route through the garden is one-way, and near the end, visitors are treated to a projection mapping show before viewing the majestic weeping cherry tree—an experience that beautifully merges the past with the present.

The illuminated weeping cherry tree (shidare-zakura) at Rikugien Garden is visible in the image

In Japan, people have a long-standing tradition of gathering under cherry trees with friends, family, or coworkers to enjoy hanami, or flower viewing. This seasonal custom is a beloved part of Japanese culture. During the day, people relax with picnic lunches, and at night, they admire the illuminated blossoms—celebrating not only the beauty of spring but also the start of something new. Once again this year, the arrival of spring, marked by cherry blossoms, brought color and joy to many lives.