Kinuta Park cherry blossoms: My first spring visit
The Kinuta Park cherry blossoms are incredible. That is what I discovered in 2024. They are among the best in Tokyo. Hanami lovers need to check them out. Let’s delve into what makes them the perfect spring destination.
My wife and I decided to go to the park by car. Why? Because it is about a 20-minute walk from the closest train station. But as we went on a beautiful day and it being a weekend, it was a massive traffic jam! What normally takes twenty minutes took us nearly an hour.
One thing I must talk about is the weather. The 2024 cherry blossom in Tokyo was poor to say the least. It seemed that it rained every day or there was the threat of a downpour. I was glad I got one good photo session with the flowers.
What kind of park is Kinuta?
- It is family-friendly. It’s Inokashira Park minus the pond and temple. There is space for kids to run around and have fun.
- Many families go there. They can eat their bento under the trees. They can enjoy a walk or do something more active. Mums and dads love this place. There is even a good-sized car park that isn’t expensive.
- Most importantly, it is free! That makes it family-friendly. Many people in Tokyo are on a budget these days, so places like this are welcome.
How were the Kinuta Park cherry blossoms?
The Kinuta Park cherry blossoms in 2024 were impressive. Some of the trees were huge. The flowers were beautiful. It was a real pleasure to walk under them. And there were types I had never seen before.
Do you know the Oshima Cherry? It was my first time to see it. This type is native to Izu Oshima island and the Izu peninsula. Other types include Someiyoshino, Yamazakura, and Yaezakura.
There are no barriers to Kinuta Park’s trees. You won’t see any fences or chained-off areas. Everyone can enjoy their bentos right under the trees. It is family-friendly.
How many cherry trees are there?
930.
Spring has more than cherry blossoms
During this trip, I discovered a beautiful bed of tulips. They provided color to the day. The park’s gardeners work hard!
Are there food options?
The park has food vans and kiosks. A restaurant is at the Setagaya Art Museum. These can be expensive. Skip them if you’re on a budget.
Take the Japanese family-friendly option. A bento (lunch box), will give you the real hanami experience. There is also a supermarket nearby if you can’t make one or don’t have time. Remember to take your rubbish home.
Photo gear for these pictures
Camera Body: X-T3
Lenses:
- XF 10-24mm f/4 R OIS
- XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR
Conclusion
The Kinuta Park cherry blossoms were amazing. I was surprised by the trees’ size. Some were huge. They were at their peak for my visit in 2024. I can’t wait to go back in 2025. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
For more spring articles, look at:
External related websites:
- Kinuta Park (official website)
4 thoughts on “Kinuta Park cherry blossoms: My first spring visit”
Thank you for sharing your beautiful sakura photos!
You’re very welcome. I’m glad you like them.
Nice pictures and descriptions!
Thanks for sharing!
Bob Reed
Thanks for the comment.