Meguro itself is known as an upscale residential area in Tokyo, and the Meguro River is a must-visit spot for many people during cherry blossom season. Every spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the trees stretching along the riverbanks form a spectacular tunnel of flowers. Branches on both sides extend over the river and even intertwine, so when you look up, you are almost completely surrounded by blossoms. It is a sight you really have to see in person to appreciate. There are already plenty of visitors during the day, but after dark, the lights create a different kind of romantic atmosphere. There are also many vendors selling drinks and snacks along the way, making it even livelier than during the day. Over the past year or two, the cherry trees along the Meguro River have been heavily pruned, and their shape and blossoms are no longer what they once were. The sight of intertwined branches covered in full bloom still remains vivid in my memory, making me appreciate even more how precious it was to witness that magnificent scene in person.
Meguro River | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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AFURI Ebisu
Located just a 3-minute walk from Ebisu Station, this stylish ramen shop specializes in tanrei-kei (light and refined) ramen, crafted with pure natural spring water from Mount Afuri in Kanagawa and a carefully simmered blend of chicken and seafood. AFURI has expanded from Tokyo to Kanagawa, Hokkaido, and even overseas in the U.S. and Hong Kong. The Ebisu branch is open until 5 a.m. and operates as a completely cashless restaurant.
AFURI's yuzu shio ramen is a classic and very popular. The broth has a light, salty base that isn't too heavy, with a subtle yuzu aroma that adds a refreshing touch to the whole bowl. It's highly recommended for people who like lighter ramen. They also offer a cup noodle version now, so you can buy a few to keep at home.
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Kaichu Road (Okinawa)
Connecting the Katsuren Peninsula on Okinawa’s main island to Henza Island, Kaichu Road is a roughly 5-kilometer toll-free roadway that offers one of the most exhilarating drives in Okinawa. Despite its name, which means “undersea road,” the route is actually built atop a causeway through shallow coastal waters. With stunning views of the cobalt-blue sea stretching out on either side, the drive is a refreshing and unforgettable experience. From Henza Island, bridges extend further to other nearby islands such as Miyagi Island, Hamahiga Island, and Ikei Island-making it a popular scenic driving route.
When our tour bus traveled along Kaichu Road, the view outside the window really made us gasp! The straight road stretched across the deep blue sea, and everyone on the bus pulled out their phones and started snapping away, afraid they might miss any angle. With wide-open ocean views on both sides, it felt as if the bus were driving right through the middle of the sea. It was such an interesting experience.
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Meguro River Cherry Blossom Cruise
The Meguro River is one of Tokyo’s best cherry blossom spots. Every spring, rows of sakura bloom along both banks, turning the riverside a vivid pink. Cherry blossom cruises that let you relax and enjoy the peak blooms from the water are especially popular.
The Meguro River cherry blossom cruise is a seasonal, limited-time flower-viewing activity. Once aboard, you don't have to squeeze through the crowds along the riverbanks and can instead enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom on both sides from a different perspective on the water. As the boat slowly moves along, the trees full of blossoms stretch out from the banks toward the water, with their branches intertwining and hanging down like a pink waterfall pouring overhead. The scenery keeps changing along the way. If you choose an evening cruise, the illuminated cherry blossoms are reflected on the water, adding to the romantic atmosphere. It's a very special cherry blossom viewing experience.
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