Tokyo Seasonal Views from the Water

Enjoy four seasons of Tokyo wonders through cherry blossoms, fireworks and more

Explore the city’s streets and natural scenery—the charms of Tokyo are the charms of the four seasons: fireworks in summer, the changing foliage in fall, the nighttime views of winter, and cherry blossoms in the spring. Each scene is unique to its season, each view all the more impressive when seen by boat.

A multitude of cherry trees bloom by the water

Between March and April in Tokyo, the cherry blossoms reach their peak. Rows of trees lining the city's many river banks come into full bloom simultaneously, providing spectacular views from the water. Indeed, boats float by some of Tokyo’s best cherry-blossom viewing spots. Enjoy the illuminated blossoms at night, and also the blanket of petals which covers the surface of the water when you take a water bus. Of particular interest are the many blossom festivals on the Sumida River, such as the Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival and the Bokutei Sakura-matsuri Festival, as well as famous spots on the Meguro River and around Chidorigafuchi. If you want to enjoy cherry blossoms in Tokyo, please see the When and where to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo page for details.

Cherry blossoms along the Sumida River

Cherry blossoms at Chidorigafuchi

Firework festivals as seen by boat

In summer, the riverbanks and riversides host various festivals and firework displays. Feel the beauty and force of each firework as you watch from the deck of a water bus or yakatabune pleasure boat. The soft light of yakatabune lanterns and bright splashes of light from firework festivals, such as the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, reflecting off the water are classic images of summertime in Tokyo.

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival and yakatabune

Fireworks at Odaiba

Bright autumn on the waterfront

Autumn’s approach can be seen in the trees, dotted with color beneath a clear sky. From the end of November to the beginning of December, the trees in waterfront spots like Sumida Park, Hama-rikyu Gardens and Arakawa Amusement Park burn with orange and red leaves. Ride among the fiery leaves as you experience an autumn like no other. Tokyo also offers many famous spots for viewing autumn leaves away from the waterfront. Please see the Autumn Leaves page for details.

Autumn leaves at Hama-rikyu Gardens

Autumn leaves at Arakawa Amusement Park seen from the Sumida River

Winter scenes at night full of natural beauty

Winter is the season for evening scenery. See the city sparkling and reflecting on the water like crystal towers under a starry sky. The Azuma-bashi and Kiyosu-bashi bridges over the Sumida River, TOKYO SKYTREE, the illuminated Tokyo Tower, and the light display on Tokyo Bay—it’s a joy to take in these enchanting city views in a single sweep as you cruise the nighttime waters.
Tokyo also offers a wide array of beautifully lit up streets and famous winter light displays. Please see the Winter Illumination Guide page for details.

Illumination of TOKYO SKYTREE and Azuma-bashi Bridge

Tokyo night view from Tokyo Bay