Latest in 2026! A leisurely cherry blossom walking tour from Ikebukuro Station [Ikegozan Houmeiji Temple and Minami Ikebukuro Park].

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Houmeiji Temple (photo courtesy of Toshima City)

Spring is the perfect time for a stroll! Hanami spots within walking distance from Ikebukuro Station

In this issue, we will introduce some cherry blossom viewing spots within walking distance from Ikebukuro Station.
Spring is the perfect season for a stroll. Whether you enjoy sightseeing in Ikebukuro or come to Ikebukuro for shopping, why not enjoy Hanami in the city?

Usual viewing time: late March to early April

Ikebukuro's Ikebukuro Station is home to the beautiful cherry blossom-lined approach to the temple, which has been in existence since the Edo period (photo courtesy of Ikebukuro City).

Houmeiji Temple (photo courtesy of Toshima City)
The temple was founded in the first year of the Konin Era (810 A.D.) as "Ikoji Temple" of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and was converted to the Nichiren sect in the first year of the Showa Era (1312 A.D.) by Nichiren Shonin, a disciple of Nichiren Shonin, and renamed to the current "Ikozan Homyoji Temple.
Located in a quiet residential area, the temple has been known as a cherry blossom viewing spot since the Edo period, and the cherry trees lining the approach to the temple and someiyoshino cherry trees blooming over the temple gate make for a beautiful and quiet spot to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

Minami Ikebukuro Park, a relaxing hanami spot in an urban oasis

Minami Ikebukuro Park (photo courtesy of Toshima City)
Minami Ikebukuro Park, with its lush green lawn all year round, is a 5-minute walk from the East Exit of Ikebukuro Station. There is a kids' terrace with a large slide and seesaw for children to play on, making it a fun spot for parents and children to enjoy while viewing cherry blossoms in spring.
The stylish restaurant in the park has bookshelves all over the shelves on the second floor, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while reading a book, or enjoy a meal while looking out over the park. Take-out is also available!

Last but not least... Someiyoshino Tidbits of Knowledge

Somei-Yoshino Cherry Blossom Memorial Park (photo courtesy of Toshima Ward)
Speaking of cherry blossoms, "Someiyoshino" actually originated in Komagome, Toshima-ku. It was sold by a Komagome gardener from the end of the Edo period (1603-1868) to the Meiji period (1868-1912), and came to be called "Someiyoshino" with the name of the place, Somei, to distinguish it from the mountain cherry trees of Yoshinoyama, Nara.
Somei Yoshino Cherry Blossom Memorial Park, a 1-minute walk from Komagome Station, has a "Yoshino Cherry Blossom Birthplace Memorial Monument. If you are interested, why not take a trip from Ikebukuro?
Somei-Yoshino Sakura no Sato Park, a 10-minute walk from Komagome Station (photo courtesy of Toshima Ward)

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable price individual travel product available only on the web. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to get a discount as early as the day of departure. We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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