The Sakura Festival at Tenbou Park in Tokyo features faux cherry blossoms suspended from real branches, offering the look of hanami without the pollen. (Juan King/Stars and Stripes)
Visitors looking to enjoy Tokyo’s cherry blossoms without braving allergy season or battling crowds can take in the view — indoors — at a seasonal exhibit atop one of the city’s tallest buildings.
The Sakura Festival at Tenbou Park on the 60th floor of Sunshine City’s Sunshine 60 skyscraper runs through May 11. Located in Tokyo’s Ikebukuro entertainment district, the indoor display features faux cherry blossoms suspended from real branches, offering the look of hanami without the pollen.
Sunshine 60 is a popular destination throughout the year, hosting wedding events and seasonal exhibits. Its high-rise observatory provides sweeping views of the Tokyo skyline, especially on clear days, and is a short walk from Ikebukuro Station.
Visitors are greeted by staff at the observatory entrance, where they can either buy tickets or have QR codes scanned if purchased online.
Visitors to the Sakura Festival at Tenbou Park in Tokyo are welcomed by pink blossoms and natural light flooding through the observatory’s large windows. (Juan King/Stars and Stripes)
Inside, attendees are welcomed by pink blossoms and natural light flooding through the observatory’s large windows. Visitors stroll along a short pathway beneath imitation sakura, past white benches and illuminated photo spots. The experience lasts about 20 minutes, though many linger to enjoy the view and take photos.
In the evening, the blossoms are lit from above, creating a different atmosphere for nighttime visitors.
The adjacent Tenbou Park Cafe sells themed snacks, including sakura-flavored treats, sandwiches and smoothies. While tempting, some guests may opt to explore additional dining options within Sunshine City’s large shopping complex.
The exhibit offers a scenic and tranquil experience suitable for solo visitors, couples or families seeking a cherry blossom outing without the unpredictability of spring weather or allergies.
The Sakura Festival at Tenbou Park on the 60th floor of Sunshine City’s Sunshine 60 skyscraper in Tokyo runs through May 11, 2025. (Juan King/Stars and Stripes)
On the QT
Directions: A 12-minute walk from Tokyo’s Ikebukuro Station. Google Plus code: PPH9+HR Toshima City, Tokyo.
Times: Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. thru May 11; last entry at 8 p.m.
Costs: Adult admission is 700 yen (about $4.65) on weekdays and 900 yen on weekends. Children in elementary and middle school pay 500 yen and 600 yen, respectively. Prices during peak periods rise to 1,200 yen for adults and 800 yen for children.
Food: Tenbou Park Cafe offers an assortment of treats, and the Sunshine City complex has more than 100 food establishments.
Information: Online: sunshinecity.jp/en
