credit: @thepeninsulatokyo

1. Tokyo | The Peninsula Tokyo 

If you think the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C. are a sight to see, you have no idea what sort of a treat you’re in for in the cherry blossom capital of the world: Japan.

The short life of these incredibly stunning flowers begins as early as February, and typically lasts through April.

To experience the magic of the cherry blossoms, head to The Peninsula Tokyo.

Here you’ll experience a number of different honorings and celebrations of the sakura (cherry blossoms).

Sakura Afternoon Tea

Through April 15, enjoy one of the hotel’s top experiences -- afternoon tea in the lobby.

Served on a silver tree stand, guests will enjoy a glass of Deutz Sakura Rose Champagne, seasonal finger foods, and treats inspired by the flower such as:

• Sakura strawberry lamington
• Cherry biscuit choux
• Lemon blueberry tartlet
• Sakura jelly panna cotta
• Sakura scones and more

Pair your bites and your wine with your choice of 20 teas in the perfect setting of the hotel’s breathtaking cherry blossom arrangements and live music.

Hanami Picnic Set

Take a tasty lunch with you packed by the hotel to one of the best spots to enjoy the cherry blossoms sights and smells. The hotel suggests heading to Hibiya Park, Chidorigafuchi, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoenmae Park, and more.

In your picnic basket, you’ll find cold cuts, shrimp salad, sandwiches, dessert, fresh fruit, and a bottle of sparkling rose wine.

Signature Cocktails

The cherry blossoms inspire so much in this city, even down to the cocktails at The Peninsula Tokyo’s Peter: The Bar.

The gin-based Anniversary Bouquet melds chamomile, elderflower, and sakura liqueur, and The New Journey mixes Champagne, dry bergamot, and your choice of three types of flowers that determine what color your drink will be.

The Peninsula Cherry Blossom Ceremony at the Spa

This 110-minute treatment begins with cherry blossom tea and a pink macaron. And things only go uphill from there. Indulge in a gentle foot scrub, an exfoliating body scrub and wrap, a cleansing facial, a scalp massage, and an aromatic body massage

Sakura Viewing Tour

Embark on a tour of the cherry blossoms in their most stunning places across the city either during the day or at night.

To book: tokyo.peninsula.com/en/default