Inokashira Park Cherry Blossoms 2017: A Perfect Moment

Imagine standing by the serene pond, looking up at a canopy of Inokashira Park cherry blossoms in full bloom. For travelers seeking the quintessential Tokyo spring experience, this spot is unrivaled. Back in 2017, everything was in perfect alignment for a photographer: the sky was a brilliant blue, softened by just the right amount of white cloud—a dream scenario.

Inokashira Park 2017 was a photographer’s sakura dream

An endless blue sky is fine for a picnic, but for photos, it can feel flat and lifeless. These clouds gave the scene depth and texture, diffusing the spring light perfectly onto the trees at their absolute peak.

Navigating Inokashira Park’s hanami crowds

Most of Inokashira Park’s cherry blossoms cluster around its central pond. The branches, heavy with flowers, reach out over the water, creating a picturesque scene that draws crowds from all over Tokyo. And in 2017, the crowds were out in force. It was a sea of DSLRs, smartphones, and selfie sticks, everyone vying for their piece of the magic. I felt a pang of envy for those who had the whole day; with the clock ticking for me, I kept moving, hunting for my shot.

A bittersweet memory: My Pentax K-3’s last photos

Looking back on these photos now, the memory feels even more precious. This day was one of the last times I used my trusty Pentax K-3. Shortly after this perfect spring afternoon, that camera met its untimely demise—a story for another day, perhaps. Knowing that makes these images feel different. They aren’t just pictures of cherry blossoms. They’re a final, beautiful testament from a camera that captured a perfect, unrepeatable moment.

The flowers at Inokashira Park in 2017 were more than great; they were amazing, just like Shinjuku Gyoen. It was a reminder of why I fell in love with photography in the first place and left me motivated for whatever came next.

Best time to see Inokashira Park cherry blossoms

The cherry blossoms typically peak from late March to early April. For fewer crowds and beautiful morning light, try visiting on a weekday morning right after the park opens. To get the latest information, check the official Inokashira Park website.

Don’t forget the park’s swan boats!

One of the most iconic activities at the park is renting a swan boat to see the sakura from the water. It provides a unique photographic angle away from the crowds on the path.

To learn more, check out my Inokashira Park Photo Guide which will give you many locations, tips and advice. By the way, have you ever been there or to another of Tokyo’s iconic cherry blossom spots? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.

Photography gear for this shoot

• Camera Body: Pentax K-3
• Lens: smc PENTAX-DA 18-135mmF3.5-5.6ED AL[IF] DC WR
• The 18-135mm is a versatile zoom perfect for capturing both the wide landscape of the pond and zooming in on individual petals hanging over the water.