Insider tips from The Peninsula Tokyo’s expert team

At The Peninsula Tokyo, our greatest asset is our team—a diverse group of passionate locals and seasoned explorers. Whether it’s a native Tokyoite who knows the city’s hidden cherry blossom spots in Tokyo or a newcomer who has made it their mission to uncover every corner of their adopted home, each member brings a unique perspective.

We take pride in our team’s collective expertise, not only in delivering exceptional service within the hotel but also in curating personalized experiences beyond its walls. From our concierge and bartenders to chauffeurs and pages, every member is dedicated to sharing authentic, insider tips—allowing you to experience Tokyo through the eyes of those who know it best.

To help you make the most of Japan's blossom-bursting sakura season, we’ve gathered their insights to craft the perfect Tokyo cherry blossom itinerary—filled with hidden gems, seasonal treats, and expert recommendations for the best hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots in Tokyo.

8:00 AM – A SCENIC MORNING DRIVE WITH RYO-SAN, OUR MINI COOPER DRIVER

Best Routes for a Picturesque Hanami Experience

“The best way to experience cherry blossom in Japan is to start your day early,” says Ryo-san, our experienced MINI driver. “One of my favorite routes is beginning at Chidorigafuchi, near the moat of the Imperial Palace. After that, I take a quiet drive through the backstreets of Aoyama Cemetery and Yotsuya Mitsuke Area. Finally, at Naka Meguro river, you can admire the famous riverside blossoms".

Insider Tip: If you’re driving yourself, head to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where you’ll find rare cherry blossom varieties in a peaceful setting.

Guests booking a Suite can enjoy a complimentary chauffeur-driven Peninsula MINI Cooper service. Our team is happy to provide recommendations for the best cherry blossom viewing routes in Tokyo. 

11:00 AM – BESPOKE SAKURA EXPERIENCES WITH AKANE-SAN, OUR LES CLES D'OR CONCIERGE

Curated Hanami Moments Beyond the Ordinary

“For a special sakura viewing in Tokyo experience, go beyond the typical parks,” suggests Akane-san, The Peninsula Tokyo's Concierge Manager. “Some of my favorite lesser-known spots include Hamarikyu Garden and Shiba Park Area. Don't miss Tokyo Tower—the contrast between the modern skyline and delicate cherry blossoms is so special.”

For those seeking something truly bespoke, Akane-san can arrange a private boat tour to admire the beauty of the Sakura from the water, offering a unique and serene perspective of Tokyo in Spring. For those wishing to capture every angle of the city draped in pink, a photo tour with a local expert can be arranged to preserve the enchantment of the season for years to come. 

Insider Tip: Many cherry blossoms have a subtle fragrance—bring a sakura-scented handkerchief to enhance the sensory experience as you walk through the gardens.

To customize your sakura itinerary, please contact our dedicated concierge team at conciergeptk@peninsula.com.

2:30 PM – A SAKURA-INSPIRED AFTERNOON TEA TOLD BY OUR PAGE GIRL & FOOD ENTHUSIAST, ANLI

A Taste of Spring in The Lobby

“There’s a magical moment when guests see our signature birdcage afternoon tea stands arriving at their table,” says one of our Page Girls, a devoted food enthusiast.

The Sakura Afternoon Tea at The Lobby is a celebration of spring flavors, featuring pastries infused with sakura, yuzu, and matcha. “One of my personal favorites is our Sakura Honey Butter Sandwich. The delicate sakura butter cream is paired with macadamia and dried sour cherry, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It’s complemented by a floral green tea that enhances the gentle tartness of the cherry—a delightful surprise for many of our guests!"

Insider Tip: for a contemporary touch on this timeless tradition, explore our Sakura AR frame while savoring your afternoon tea. Watch as heritage and technology blend together, bringing the cherry blossoms on your table to life—an enchanting way to capture the fleeting beauty of the season. Simply scan the QR code below or click here. 

The Afternoon Tea is available until April 30, 2025. For more details and reservations, please click here.

6:00 PM – A SAKURA TOAST WITH MARI-SAN, OUR EXPERT MIXOLOGIST AT PETER: THE BAR

The Story Behind the Spring Cocktail

“As the cherry blossoms come and go so quickly, I designed our Spring Cocktail to be a drink best enjoyed slowly,” shares Mari-san, our celebrated mixologist at Peter: The Bar. “I’ve chosen a floral gin to highlight the delicate fragrance of sakura, balanced with a hint of bitterness to reflect the transient nature of the season.”

Her secret touch? Edible sakura petals frozen into an ice cube, making the bloom appear to float in the glass as it melts—an experience as ephemeral as hanami itself.

Insider Tip: Order the Spring Cocktail at sunset—the golden hour light streaming through the bar’s panoramic windows makes for the perfect sakura-inspired moment.

To experience the Spring Cocktail, simply visit Peter: The Bar on the 24th floor - no reservation needed.

CHERRY BLOSSOM FORECAST & YOUR HANAMI GUIDE MAP 

Tokyo’s cherry blossom season is a fleeting yet magical time. The 2025 forecast predicts that the first blooms will appear in late March, with peak full bloom expected in early April. Since timing can vary slightly due to weather conditions, we recommend checking the Japan Weather Association’s sakura forecast for real-time updates.

To make your hanami experience effortless, we’ve created a downloadable cherry blossom map featuring the best spots in Tokyo, all starting from The Peninsula Tokyo. Download your map here and let our team help you plan a memorable sakura season.

Where will your sakura story begin?

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Sakura at The Peninsula Tokyo - Scan the QR code to discover our Sakura AR frame or click here.