Hanami, cherry blossom viewing, is recognized as a special occasion to contemplate the transience of life, but often it’s just a good excuse for a party.

Here are some famous cherry blossom spots in Tokyo.

Ueno Park: The extraordinary beauty of 800 Somei-yoshino cherry trees along the main path is breathtaking. One thousand lanterns provide a majestic atmosphere at night.

Sumida Park: A few minutes’ walk from Asakusa Station, this park has about 450 cherry trees. It’s a great place for a water bus ride to view the cherry blossoms from the river vantage point. 

Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival: This is the perfect time to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River. Sakura lining both banks of the river are magnificent when in full bloom. 

Chiyoda Cherry Blossom Festival: This festival is held on the 700-meter-long Chidorigafuchi Ryokudo (Chidorigafuchi Green Path). About 260 cherry trees will be illuminated at dusk. 

teamLab Planets: This international art collective will show two new works featuring cherry blossoms that bloom across space – on view during the spring season only.