A Rickshaw in the Spring? Fun Sakura Activities to Do!

Ah, the cherry blossom season—one of the most enchanting times of the year in Japan. In the spring, vibrant pink and white flowers blanket the country, attracting locals and tourists. In Japan, sakura (cherry blossoms) usually peak from March to April. 

After harsh winter weather, spring’s warmth is welcomed with open arms to go outside for activities. From admiring stunning views from the windows of a train to cruising along canals lined with sakura—your options are endless! Here’s a list of fun experiences to enjoy in Japan during spring to make the most of the season! Get ready for a great time exploring Japan in springtime!

Rickshaw

Enjoy cherry blossom viewing from a rickshaw while avoiding crowds. In this rickshaw tour, you will ride an iconic and full-of-history open-air convertible. Rickshaws first appeared in Japan during the 1870s and gained particular popularity during the Meiji and Taisho periods. Nowadays, they are generally used for sightseeing and can be spotted at many well-known tourist destinations nationwide.

A rickshaw puller who knows all about sakura viewing spots will guide you so that you will be in good hands. Dash through the sakura on a rickshaw from a higher vantage point and at a speed different from that of foot.

Passing beside cars and pedestrians on a rickshaw is such an exhilarating thrill. It’s a very comfortable ride, fit for royalty! This kind of fun is something you’ll only experience on a rickshaw! With such a fantastic backdrop, don’t miss taking a photo with the rickshaw beside the pretty pink blossoms!

Sakura Train Express

Train travel is one of the most efficient and comfortable ways of traveling through Japan. Slow and relaxing, a train journey is one of the best ways of getting around Japan. Some of the most breathtaking views in Japan can be enjoyed from behind a train window. It’s a great way to sit back and enjoy the cherry blossoms in the springtime.

During the blooming period, riding the trolley train is a must-do activity. It lets you soak in the scenery while feeling the train rocking. You’re sure to love it! Scenic train journeys offer stunning views of pink blossoms against mountains, rivers, and cities. Tsugaru, Sagano, and Tarumi are a few railways where you can enjoy stunning views from the windows of your train. 

Are you looking for fantastic sakura snacks this spring? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, snacks, drinks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest spring goodies directly from Japan!

Sakura Boat Ride

The beautiful winding rivers in Japan with the cherry blossoms by the side offer some of the most breathtaking views. There’s something magical about experiencing the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossoms from a boat. 

Sail aboard a yakatabune (traditional Japanese boat) on an unforgettable dinner or lunch cruise. A boat ride during cherry blossom season is an unforgettable way to take in some of Japan’s most breathtaking sights. As evening approaches, sit back and enjoy a breezy cruise with lush, pink blossoms fringing the riverside.

Sakura Tour & Hanami

Hanami (flower viewing) has been an ancient tradition in Japan for centuries, starting from the Heian period. Today, Japanese people still celebrate hanami every year. Thousands of people fill the parks during hanami to hold picnics under the flowering trees for a perfect sakura day. People go to the parks to celebrate hanami with loved ones, bringing delicious food and drinks. Some people would play musical instruments to make the occasion even merrier.

After a picture-perfect picnic, enjoy a fully guided cherry blossom tour. Strolling along canals with flowering trees is the perfect way to enjoy spring! On this tour, you will be blown away by gardens and parks with some of the best cherry blossom views. Tour the must-see sights of Japan, enjoy cultural activities, and visit the best Japanese cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan.

Sakura Bus Ride

Got only a few hours to spare? Join a half-day bus tour and see the iconic sakura spots. You can explore Japan’s charming sakura spots in just a short drive. This open-air sightseeing bus gives you the best sakura views! It’s perfect for families traveling with kids because you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. Learn and experience the Japanese way of hanami in this fun bus tour. 

Why should I do things like ride a rickshaw in the spring?

These breathtaking views attract tourists from across Japan and the world. While it may be crowded, a rickshaw or sightseeing train ensures you enjoy it without worrying about other people. Celebrate the cherry blossom bloom in a historical rickshaw, a scenic boat ride, or on an iconic train!

However, make early reservations and enjoy the sakura trees in style through our recommended fun cherry blossom experiences! Are cherry blossoms on your bucket list? Why not enjoy these springtime flowers in a uniquely Japanese way? Let us know in the comments below if you tried one of these fun activities!