April is one of the most beautiful and energetic months in Tokyo. Cherry blossoms reach full bloom in early April, spring festivals fill shrine grounds with color, and outdoor markets and cultural events take advantage of the mild weather. It is a month that blends tradition, seasonal beauty, pop culture, and international events. But where do you begin? Below we have listed some of the most notable things to do in Tokyo in April 2026, so you can see just what’s available this incredible month!
Cruising down the Sumida River – Photo Credit: Keith Tarrier
Sumida River Spring Boat Cruises
Spring boat cruises along the Sumida River offer a scenic way to view cherry blossoms from the water. Boats depart from Asakusa and travel past historic neighborhoods toward the waterfront. This area is closely connected with Edo-period culture. The nearby Sensoji Temple remains one of Tokyo’s oldest and most important Buddhist sites. Combining a temple visit with a river cruise provides both spiritual and seasonal perspectives on the city.
Location: Tokyo Cruise Asakusa Pier
Website: https://www.suijobus.co.jp/
Visitor Tip: Recommended for couples, photographers, and travelers seeking a relaxed sightseeing experience.
Cherry blossoms in bloom at Meguro River – Photo Credit: KenSoftTH
Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival
The Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Tokyo’s most iconic spring events. Hundreds of cherry trees line the riverbanks, creating a soft pink canopy over the water. Lanterns are hung along the pathways, and in the evening, the illuminated blossoms create a romantic atmosphere.
The tradition of hanami (花見, cherry blossom viewing) dates back centuries, when aristocrats composed poetry beneath blooming trees. Today, locals gather with friends and colleagues for picnics while visitors stroll the riverside, enjoying seasonal snacks and sweets.
Dates: Early April 2026 (typically late March through early April, peak bloom dependent on weather. Check out our forecast here)
Location: Meguro River, Nakameguro
Website: https://meguro-kanko.com/
Visitor Tip: Bloom timing varies each year depending on weather conditions. Check bloom forecasts before planning your visit.
Cherry blossoms in bloom at Ueno – Photo Credit: Richard Whitcombe
Ueno Sakura Festival
Ueno Park becomes one of Tokyo’s most festive gathering places during cherry blossom season. Over 1,000 trees bloom along the central pathway, and food stalls sell seasonal treats such as sakura-flavored sweets and grilled snacks. In the evenings, paper lanterns illuminate the blossoms, creating a lively night viewing experience. The park also houses museums and the Ueno Zoo, making it easy to combine cultural sightseeing with seasonal beauty.
Dates: March 14 – April 5
Location: Ueno Park
Website: https://t-navi.city.taito.lg.jp/event/1412\
Visitor Tip: Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
FABEX Tokyo taking place – Photo Credit: FABEX
FABEX Tokyo 2026
FABEX Tokyo 2026 is one of Japan’s largest professional food and beverage trade exhibitions. The event brings together manufacturers, restaurant operators, retailers, and food industry professionals to showcase the latest trends in prepared foods, desserts, bakery products, rice innovation, and OEM production.
The exhibition is divided into several specialized zones, including the Dessert Sweets & Bakery Exhibition, the Rice Future Exhibition, and the Food & Beverage OEM Expo. Visitors can discover emerging culinary technologies, packaging innovations, plant-based developments, and seasonal product launches. While primarily industry-focused, it offers fascinating insight into the future of Japanese food culture.
Dates: April 15 – 17, 2026
Location: Tokyo Big Sight
Website: https://www.fabex.jp/
Visitor Tips: Recommended for culinary professionals, food entrepreneurs, and travelers interested in Japan’s evolving food industry.
The atmosphere is business-oriented, innovative, and trend-focused, with large-scale exhibition booths and product demonstrations.
Asakusa Yabusame – Photo Credit: The Asakusa Tourism Federation
Asakusa Yabusame
Asakusa Yabusame is a traditional horseback archery event held on the grounds of Sumida Park near Sensoji Temple. Yabusame (流鏑馬, traditional horseback archery) dates back to the Kamakura period and was originally performed by samurai to hone their martial skills while offering prayers for peace and prosperity. Archers dressed in historical hunting attire ride at full speed along a straight track, shooting arrows at wooden targets. The event is both a thrilling spectacle and a rare opportunity to witness a preserved martial art in the heart of modern Tokyo. Unlike larger regional yabusame festivals held elsewhere in Japan, this spring event is distinctly Tokyo-based and easily accessible for visitors staying in the city.
Date: April 18, 2026
Location: Sumida Park, Asakusa
Website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/event/kanko/asakusayabusame.html
Visitor Tips: Recommended for history enthusiasts, photographers, and visitors interested in samurai culture.
The atmosphere is dramatic, traditional, and family-friendly, with cherry blossoms often still lingering along the riverbanks.
Earth Day Tokyo – Photo Credit: EarthDayTokyo_
Earth Day Tokyo 2026
Earth Day Tokyo is one of Japan’s largest environmental events. Held annually in Yoyogi Park, it features eco-friendly vendors, live music, sustainability workshops, and nonprofit organizations promoting climate awareness. The event reflects Japan’s growing environmental consciousness and community activism. It is family-friendly and international in spirit.
Dates: April 18 – 19, 2026
Location: Yoyogi Park
Website: https://www.earthday-tokyo.org/
Visitor Tips: Atmosphere is relaxed, socially conscious, and community-oriented.
Meat served at the festival – Photo Credit: NIKU FES TOKYO
NIKU FES 2026 TOKYO
NIKU FES is Japan’s largest meat-centric food festival, bringing together award-winning steakhouses, grill specialists, and street barbecue vendors. Outdoor picnic areas make it easy to enjoy slow-cooked dishes while soaking up spring sunshine. Don’t miss the “Steak King Championship,” where attendees vote to crown Japan’s best steak.
Dates: April 29 – May 10, 2026
Location: Odaiba Aomi Area P Sector
Website: https://www.nikufes.jp/#about\
Visitor Tips: recommended for meat lovers, outdoor festival goers, and seasonal food explorers.
Stunning view of Asakusa during the spring – Photo Credit: Jujumin Chu
Practical Travel Tips for April 2026
Weather: Mild and comfortable, typically ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Light layers are recommended.
Crowds: Peak cherry blossom weeks can be extremely busy. Plan early morning visits to popular parks.
Costs: Accommodation prices are higher during peak bloom. Book well in advance.
Transportation: Public transportation runs smoothly, though stations near major blossom spots may be crowded.
Cherry blossoms in bloom at Asakusa – Photo Credit: KenSoftTH
Why April Is a Special Time to Visit Tokyo
April symbolizes renewal in Japan. It marks the start of the school and fiscal year, representing fresh beginnings. Cherry blossoms reflect mono no aware (物の哀れ, appreciation of the fleeting nature of beauty), reminding visitors that life’s most beautiful moments are temporary. From shrine festivals to riverside blossoms and international environmental gatherings, April offers a rich and varied Tokyo experience. If you want to see the city at its most picturesque and culturally vibrant, April 2026 is an unforgettable time to visit.
Please note: Event dates, times, and details are subject to change, sometimes with little or no notice. We recommend checking the official websites or social media channels of each venue or event organizer for the most up-to-date information before you visit.
Featured Photo Credit: Peera_stockfoto
