Times Of TIU

Writer: Kotomi T.

Editor:Yukinobu N.

Translator: Munkhjargal D.

The new academic year has begun, and spring is now in full swing. While there are many buildings and facilities around the Ikebukuro Campus, this time we’ll be guiding you through the area with a focus on “spring.” Believe it or not, you can actually feel the arrival of spring even in Ikebukuro, right in the heart of the city. From parks where you’ll want to relax, to ways to enjoy the cherry blossoms, we’ll introduce the unique charms of spring in Ikebukuro that are only available during this season.

[Top 3 Cherry Blossom Spots Around Ikebukuro]

① Minami-Ikebukuro Park (2-21-1 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo)

　Free admission; Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM

    Minami-Ikebukuro Park is conveniently located within walking distance of Ikebukuro Station and serves as a hidden oasis where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you pass through the park entrance, the first thing that catches your eye is the spacious lawn area. In spring, colorful flowers bloom in full splendor, and you can feel the breath of nature alongside the gentle sunlight.

At the far end of the park is a stylish café-restaurant where you can enjoy everything from coffee and desserts to grilled dishes. It’s lovely to sit on an outdoor bench and soak up the spring sunshine, but even if it rains, you can still relax inside while admiring the cherry blossoms, a real highlight. The large windows offer a beautiful view of the changing seasons, so you can enjoy the scenery no matter the weather.

Furthermore, the park is surrounded by a cluster of skyscrapers and notably Sunshine 60, yet it exudes such a serene atmosphere that you’d hardly believe you’re in the heart of the city. With cherry blossoms encircling the park, it feels like a small spring paradise right in the city center. On sunny days, people gather to enjoy picnics or take photos of the blossoms with their cameras, creating a bright and lively atmosphere.

② Ikebukuro West Exit Park (1-8-26 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo)

Admission: Free | Hours: 5:00 AM–1:00 AM

Located right outside Ikebukuro West Exit, the first thing you see is the Global Ring, which has become a symbol of the park. This massive ring is simple yet striking, exuding an urban vibe while still feeling warm and inviting. And of course, with cherry blossoms blooming not only on the Global Ring itself but also all around it, you can enjoy the view of cherry blossoms from anywhere in the park. With benches and other resting spots scattered throughout, it’s easy to stop by and take in the spring scenery. It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and take a breather while admiring the flowers. At night, seasonal illuminations are held, allowing you to see a beautiful sight unlike that of the daytime, where the cherry blossoms and lights blend together.

There is a café right next to the Global Ring, and taking advantage of its prime location in front of the station, many restaurants line the area around the park. Therefore, another attraction is the chance to enjoy a cup of tea or dinner while viewing the cherry blossoms in a stylish atmosphere.

③ Kami-Ikebukuro Sakura Park (2-45-15 Kami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo)

Free admission; open all day

Kamikeikaku Sakura Park is a 7-minute walk from Kamikeikaku Station on the Tobu Tojo Line. Stretching along the Saikyo Line, the park, as its name suggests, is filled with blooming cherry blossoms. Inside the park are 24 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino varieties which add color to the spring landscape. Benches are set up throughout the park, allowing visitors to sit back and relax while admiring the blossoms. It is a particularly relaxing space for those enjoying hanami and families with children.

Since it is a short distance from the city center, this is a rare spot where you can enjoy the spring cherry blossoms while spending some quiet time. With benches and several pieces of playground equipment for children, it offers a peaceful hanami experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Adjacent to the park is the Kami-Ikebukuro Library, where you can enjoy reading up close amidst the gentle scenery of sunlight filtering through the trees and cherry blossoms. Whether you visit with family, friends, or on your own, you can fully enjoy a peaceful springtime moment here.

[How to Enjoy Cherry Blossom Viewing]

As mentioned before, there are various ways to enjoy cherry blossom viewing

First, simply take a stroll and enjoy the cherry blossoms while feeling the spring breeze. You can step outside and casually soak up the warm spring weather.

The second is a picnic. Spread out a picnic blanket, eat the food you’ve prepared, have a drink, and enjoy the cherry blossoms. If you’re with a group, everyone can bring their own bento boxes or snacks to share, and you can spend the time chatting and laughing together. For those who don’t usually go on picnics, the experience of eating under the cherry blossoms will feel fresh and is sure to be a lasting memory.

Another option is viewing the cherry blossoms at night. In some areas where the cherry blossoms are in bloom, they are illuminated at night. The illuminated cherry blossoms are shrouded in a magical and mysterious atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy a different side of the blossoms than during the day. While many people may picture pink cherry blossoms against a blue sky, nighttime cherry blossoms offer a unique perspective, and it’s truly special to slowly immerse yourself in their beauty with a warm drink in hand.

[Conclusion]

The cherry blossoms in Ikebukuro aren’t just beautiful, they also offer a place to take a breather in the heart of the city. Another charm of Ikebukuro is that you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in various ways, not just by admiring them, but also through activities like taking a stroll, having a picnic, or viewing the illuminated night blossoms.

We hope you’ll come to Ikebukuro, home to our campus, and spend some wonderful springtime moments!