Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom at Akagi Shrine, Tokyo's Kagurazaka — A Hidden Hanami Gem Awaits at Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine
- Shinya Yamada
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 30
Akagi Shrine’s Sakura Reached Full Bloom in Kagurazaka on March 27
Last night, I had the pleasure of guiding a group of guests from a luxury hotel through the charming Tokyo neighborhood of Kagurazaka. During our walk, we stopped by Akagi Shrine, where we were treated to a spectacular sight—the cherry trees in the shrine’s courtyard were in full bloom. Remarkably, there were no other visitors, and the three of us enjoyed a peaceful and private hanami (cherry blossom viewing) under the soft glow of the evening lights.
Akagi Shrine has a long and noble history, originally established in the year 1300. According to legend, a powerful clan from Ogo, located at the foot of Mount Akagi in present-day Gunma Prefecture, relocated to the Ushigome area and enshrined a divided spirit of their homeland’s guardian deity.
Did You Know Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka Was Once One of Edo’s Three Great Shrines?
Today, Akagi Shrine may appear as a modest, local place of worship, but in the Edo period (1603-1867), it was revered as one of the “Three Great Shrines of Edo (Tokyo)”, alongside Kanda Myojin and Hie Shrine. In 1683, the Tokugawa shogunate officially recognized Akagi Shrine as the chief guardian shrine of the Ushigome area. During the shrine festivals, its floats and ceremonial processions were even granted special access into the Imperial moat—an extraordinary honor.
Now is the perfect time to visit this historically significant site while the cherry blossoms are at their peak.
Hidden Hanami Gems in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka — Best Viewed in Early April
Just a short walk away, Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine offers an even deeper glimpse into Kagurazaka’s rich heritage. This shrine is believed to have been founded over 1,200 years ago, making it one of the oldest in the area. The presence of such an ancient shrine underscores Kagurazaka’s long-standing cultural significance.
In the courtyard of Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine stands an enormous cherry tree that rivals even the beauty of Akagi Shrine’s. Best of all, very few people know about it—even during peak bloom, you can enjoy the blossoms in peace. I truly believe it’s one of Tokyo’s hidden hanami gems.
Visit Kagurazaka—Home to Some of Tokyo’s Best Hanami Spots
When I visited last night, the blossoms were only about 30% in bloom, but I expect them to reach full bloom next week. In addition to these hidden spots, Kagurazaka is also home to more famous cherry blossom locations, including the canal-side promenade along the outer moat and the riverside paths of nearby Edogawabashi, lined with cherry trees along the Kanda River.
Why not come explore the cherry blossom beauty of Kagurazaka, from famous spots to hidden sanctuaries? We also welcome reservations for our special Hanami Tours—join us and enjoy spring in one of Tokyo’s most culturally rich districts.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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