Shibu3 Sakura Festival
Enjoy Kawazu Cherry Blossoms from the Comfort of a Heated Kotatsu
The Shibu3 Sakura Festival, an annual event held at Shibuya River Street since 2019, returns this year with an expanded offering of unique experiences centered around the blooming of Kawazu cherry blossoms. The main attraction, "Sakura ‘Hot’ Kotatsu," allows visitors to enjoy the blossoms while seated outdoors in the comfort of a heated kotatsu – with an increased number of kotatsu available compared to previous years.
Building on the success of last year’s event, the "Shibu3 Children’s Festival" will also be returning, featuring a revised selection of activities. Adding to the festivities, free cotton candy will be distributed at Shibuya River Street, ensuring a delightful experience for attendees of all ages.
Special Appearances
Adding to the festive atmosphere, a series of greeting events are scheduled:
- February 15th (Shibuya River Street): Meet Tokyu Line character Norurun, Kokugakuin University mascot Kokupyon, and WE League official mascot Weena.
- February 15th and 16th (Konno Bridge Plaza): Meet and greet Hello Kitty and Turfy.
Event Details
Here’s a breakdown of the various activities and schedules:
【Sakura "Hot" Kotatsu】
Enjoy the unique experience of viewing cherry blossoms while staying warm in an outdoor kotatsu.
Hours:
- February 14th (Fri), 15th (Sat), 16th (Sun), 21st (Fri), 22nd (Sat): 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- February 23rd (Sun): 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Note: This event will be cancelled in case of rain.
【Shibu3 Children’s Festival】
A variety of engaging activities for children, including:
- Umaibo fishing
- Ring toss
- Shooting gallery
Date and Time:
- February 14th (Fri), 15th (Sat), 16th (Sun), 21st (Fri), 22nd (Sat): 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- February 23rd (Sun): 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Note: This event will be cancelled in case of rain.
【Cotton Candy】
Free cotton candy will be provided by UR Urban Organization (while supplies last).
Date and Time:
- February 22nd (Sat), 23rd (Sun): 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Note: This event will be cancelled in case of rain.
【Stalls】
NPK Co., Ltd. will be offering a selection of refreshments.
Offerings:
- Children’s drinks
- Warm alcoholic beverages
Date and Time:
- February 15th (Sat), 16th (Sun), 21st (Fri), 22nd (Sat), 23rd (Sun): All Day
【Greeting Event at River Street】
An opportunity to meet popular characters.
Characters:
- Norurun
- Kokupyon
- Weena
Date: February 15th (Sat)
Times: 3:20 PM, 4:20 PM, 5:10 PM
Note: This event will be cancelled in case of rain.
【Photo Contest】
Capture the beauty of the Kawazu cherry blossoms and participate in a photo contest on the Sakura Hot Kotatsu official Instagram.
How to Enter: Post a photo with the hashtag "#ShibuyaRiverStreetKawazuCherryBlossoms" during the application period.
Application Period: February 14th (Fri) – February 23rd (Sun)
Prizes:
- Gold Prize: SHIBUYA STREAM HOTEL Pair Accommodation Voucher
- Silver Prize: Bar & Dining "TORRENT" Pair Lunch Voucher
- Bronze Prize: Shibuya Stream Original Goods
【Event at Konno Bridge Plaza】
A special greeting event featuring beloved characters.
Characters:
- Hello Kitty
- Turfy
Date: February 15th (Sat), 16th (Sun)
Times: 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:00 PM
Rain Location: Shibuya Stream 3rd floor plaza
Basic Information
- Location/Nearest Station: Shibuya River Street (2-minute walk from Shibuya Station)
- Address: 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Shibuya 3-18 (MAP)
- Venue: Shibuya River Street (Hachiman Bridge – Shin-Namiki Bridge)
- Event Period: February 14th (Fri), 2025 – February 23rd (Sun/Holiday), 2025
- Time:
- February 14th (Fri), 15th (Sat), 16th (Sun), 21st (Fri), 22nd (Sat): 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- February 23rd (Sun): 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Fee: Free
- Official Website: Shibuya River Street
- Information in Case of Rain:
* "Sakura ‘Hot’ Kotatsu," "Shibu3 Children’s Festival," "Cotton Candy," and "Greeting Event at River Street" will be cancelled.
* Hello Kitty & Turfy greeting event will be held in the Shibuya Stream 3rd floor rest area. - Notes:
- Please refrain from bringing in soups.
- No open flames are allowed.
- There will be a 30-minute and 60-minute time limit for each kotatsu used.
Published content may be subject to change. For the latest information, please check the venue’s or organizer’s official website.
What is a kotatsu?
A kotatsu is a traditional Japanese piece of furniture consisting of a low wooden table frame with an electric heater underneath. It is covered with a thick blanket or futon, over which a tabletop is placed. This arrangement provides a warm space where people can sit with their legs under the blanket, enjoying the heat during colder months. The kotatsu is a common feature in many Japanese homes, often serving as a central spot for family and friends to gather, eat, and socialize. Its warmth and comfort make it a fitting addition to events like the Shibuya Sakura Festival, where visitors can experience this aspect of Japanese culture amidst the celebrations.
