Chidorigafuchi

Tokyo, Japan

Chidorigafuchi is a historic moat bordering the northwest side of Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, lined with cherry‑blossom trees and offering rowboat rentals. In spring it transforms into a premier hanami spot, where the water reflects pink petals and the palace walls.

Why choose Chidorigafuchi

Gliding beneath the blooming canopy lets you experience the season’s quiet beauty more directly than a crowded park. The palace walls framed by sakura provide a perspective that’s unique to this spot in Tokyo.

Best for: Photography · History · Couples

Start your Imperial Palace morning here

Begin with a calm boat ride on Chidorigafuchi, then stroll to nearby sites for a relaxed half‑day tour.

1. Morning — Chidorigafuchi
2. 10:30 — Kita-no-maru Park
3. 11:30 — The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

Visit tips

• Arrive before 9:00 to enjoy the cherry blossoms with fewer people.
• Rent a rowboat from the east dock for the best view of the palace walls.
• Visit early weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Carry a light rain jacket; spring showers are common.

Plan your visit

• Recommended duration: 1–2 hours
• Best time of day: Early weekday morning
• Entry: Free to visit
• Booking: not required — tickets at the gate
• Category: attraction
• Rated 4.5 by 178 reviewers
• Tags: cherry blossoms, rowboat rental, spring photography, imperial palace view

Nearby attractions

• Yasukuni Shrine — attraction, 7 min walk
• Imperial Palace East National Gardens — park, 12 min walk
• Curry Bondy — restaurant, 13 min walk
• Kokyo Gaien National Garden — attraction, 19 min walk
• The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo — attraction, 8 min walk
• Kita-no-maru Park — park, 4 min walk

More things to do in Tokyo

• Tokyo Skytree
• Tokyo Tower
• Sensō-ji
• Meiji Jingu
• teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM
• Fish Market Tsukiji Outer Market

See all things to do in Tokyo or plan a full Tokyo itinerary with Next Getaway.