Flight Attendant 48 Hour Layover // HND // Springtime in Tokyo

Spring Time in Tokyo!

Visiting Tokyo during Sakura season has always been a top item on my bucket list, so I was feeling lucky to see this Haneda trip on my roster. There’s something incredibly beautiful and heartbreakingly fleeting about cherry blossoms, which last just two short weeks. Hanami reminds the Japanese that life is short, you must make the most of it—and that’s exactly what the plan is on this brief four-day trip, despite the gruelling 15-hour flight home.

Luckily, the flight home is a distant concern, as I have the luxury of positioning out as a passenger. This rare treat means I can put my feet up and enjoy some well-deserved princess treatment. Check out my how-to-guide of what to wear for a long haul flight.

Day 1: Mount Fuji

After a sleepless flight and a groggy arrival at 10am, the crew and I embrace the Hanami spirit and embark on a trip to Mount Fuji. The plan is to navigate Tokyo’s complex Metro to Shibuya and take a bus to Kawaguchiko-FujiMount for around ¥2000. Unfortunately, we don’t pre-book bus tickets and find them sold out until evening. This leaves us no choice but to take a series of metro lines, turning our journey into a three-hour ordeal.

Mount Fuji, however, is breathtaking and worth the effort. Representing purity, perseverance, and eternity in Japanese history, its serene presence on a clear day is awe-inspiring. You can even participate in a Shinto purification ritual at the shrine. Climbing the 398 steps to the Mount Fuji observation deck rewards you with the iconic and spectacular views of the Chureito Pagoda, where you can catch your breath surrounded by 650 Yoshino sakura trees.

Afterward, head to Honcho Street in Fujiyoshida, where Mt. Fuji can be seen behind signboards, lanterns, and electric wires—a hot spot for social media photos. Be cautious, though; it’s a street with moving traffic.

Fuji Tips

Instagram vs. Reality: Expect long lines and crowds at the famous photo spots. Be prepared for a quick photo op and lots of people with selfie sticks (we were ushered along by men with cow bells!)
Bug Spray: We got some nasty unidentified bites up there, so come prepared.
Pre-Plan Transport: Pre-book bus tickets, take the bullet train, or drive. Avoid the metro journey we endured at all costs.
Bring Yen: For purchases at the pagoda and shrines.

Despite a delirious journey back to Tokyo after missing the last express train, we decide to lift our spirits with some sushi. Head to Uobei for a cheap and cheerful yet high-quality Kaitan sushi in bustling Shibuya. These conveyer belt restaurants where the sushi rice is made by robots with humans just adding the toppings also have a river of soy sauce on tap. Tokyo’s food never lets you down, and this place is no exception. I even win a cute nigiri ring in a game of “sushi roulette” that comes up on my screen – next thing I know a mysterious gold token is dropped off to me which I discover dispenses a prize from the gum ball machine in the lobby. It doesn’t last the trip. In fact I don’t think I’ve ever kept a ring for more than 24 hours—whoever marries me is in for a challenge!

Why not end your unusual day by heading to The Church, a quirky bar at the top of Shibuya’s Dogenzaka. This isn’t your typical church—it’s a small chapel with wooden pews and stained glass windows, where staff are dressed as hot nuns and organ music is replaced by house and techno. There’s even a confession booth for repentant sinners to confess their debauchery. Just don’t expect it to be open for Sunday service. Call it a night after your version of midnight mass.

Day 2: Hanami (but first…coffee)

In desperate need of coffee and sustenance, we take a trip down Takeshita Street in Harajuku, a bustling hub of fashion, food, and youth culture. Navigate the packed street filled with trendy boutiques, unique accessory shops and vibrant street art. Takeshita Street embodies a melting pot of subcultures, from edgy punk to whimsical Lolita styles, showcasing self-expression and creativity. With its bold prints, pastel hair, and avant-garde styles, Takeshita Street offers a fashion scene unlike anywhere else in the world.

The air is filled with the aroma of freshly made crepes and cotton candy. Don’t resist on indulging in some unique snacks like strawberry tanghulu—a sweet treat of fresh fruit coated in crunchy melted rock sugar, matcha and charcoal ice cream or magical rainbow grilled cheese – do take Yen as cards are not widely accepted on this street.

With your sweet tooth satisfied, seek a caffeine fix at Café Reissue, famed for its personalized 3D latte art creations. Here is your chance to marvel at your favorite characters brought to life atop your coffee. I opted for an Easter bunny (obviously). They can even personalise them if you bring in a picture for inspiration. I recommend booking in advance as most places require reservations, but we lucked out with takeaway lattes. Also do not miss the opportunity to visit the cute animal cafes that offer a unique and memorable experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy your beverage while hanging out with the animals, whether you’re a cat, dog or bunny person or even a minature pig, hedgehog, or owl officianado!

Sakura Season!

Next we set out to see what we came here for – the sakura! First, stop at Chidorigafuchi near the Imperial Palace which at this time of year transforms into a breathtaking sea of cherry blossoms. This iconic spot opens its park to visitors, inviting you to stroll along the moat lined with over 1,000 blooming sakura trees. The sight of delicate pink petals floating on the water is simply magical. People gather for picnics under the blossoms, creating a festive atmosphere filled with laughter and the aroma of delicious food.

You can also rent a rowboat to enjoy a serene view of the blossoms from the water and I thought what a romantic spot it would be for a date (one day!). This year, the sakura bloomed later than usual due to cooler temperatures, but the early blooming trees (Okanzakura) added bursts of colour to the landscape, providing a stunning spectacle despite the delayed full bloom.

Next head to Oneo park, arriving just before sunset. Ueno Park during the Sakura Festival is a fashion and cultural playground. Cherry blossoms paint the park in dreamy pinks, with trees lining the sides of the streets and illuminated beautifully as night falls.

Everyone’s out in their best spring outfits, and the vibe is electric with live bands playing, including an adorably lively J-pop band that gets everyone dancing.

Street food vendors are everywhere, offering delicious bites like yakitori, takoyaki, and sakura-themed sweets. We enjoy some street food and refreshing lemon sours while dancing to the band. It’s a sensory overload in the best way—sights, sounds, and flavors collide, making Ueno Park a must-visit during the season.

Despite legging it for the last metro, which would have been an expensive mistake, you don’t have to spend a fortune here; in springtime, the sakura festivals are free, and the food can be cheap. Remember to stop at discount megastore Don Quixote Asakusa before you go to stock up on Japanese treats, tech and skincare!