Airbnb is allowing locals and travelers alike to experience cherry blossom season in unique, off-the-beaten-path ways through sakura-themed Experiences in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
For example, Experiences in the Yanaka neighborhood in Tokyo offer locals and travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture, where traditional ways of life are still part of the neighborhood’s daily routine.
The area is known for Japanese sweets, tea and artisanal shops where craftsmen and shop owners take pride in making accoutrements for kabuki actors and geishas who used to wander the neighborhood’s narrow alleyways. Springtime sees Yanaka Cemetery bursting with expansive cherry blossom trees–an alternative, yet beautiful way to see these blooms in full force.
Explore Yanaka and Kuramae town, the “Brooklyn of Tokyo”, while riding on “tokyobike”.
Explore the old and new sides of Tokyo on a bike as you cycle past small artisan workshops still in operation and factories that now house coffee shops and a chocolate factory.
See Yanaka from the eyes of a local while you stroll through a shopping street, looking at kitchen knives and sampling sweets like karinto and manju from traditional Japanese shops.
Get lost in narrow labyrinthian streets, arrive at an old wall made of tiles and make a final stop at Yanaka Cemetery for a prime cherry blossom viewing opportunity.
Learn about the history of wagashi (Japanese sweets) from the owner of a renowned wagashi shop. Complete the Experience with organic Japanese tea.
Additionally, these unique sakura-themed Experiences allow travelers to escape the crowds and discover unique elements of Japanese culture rarely found anywhere else.
Increase your Instagram followers and get more likes and comments by making Instagrammable cherry blossom maki sushi rolls.
Enjoy a scenic view of cherry blossoms in your private kayak and watch the world go by with cherry blossom kayaking.
Impress your friends back home with the skill of making cherry blossom Japanese sweets.
See a full list of Experiences here.
The Airbnb Press Room is aimed at journalists. All Homes and Experiences referenced on the Airbnb Press Room are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific Home or Experience listings on the Airbnb platform.