In late March and early April, the zelkova trees along Daigaku-dori are joined by rows of cherry trees whose branches arch across the full width of the boulevard, creating a tunnel of pale pink blossom overhead. It is one of the best-known hanami spots in western Tokyo, drawing visitors from across the city who come to stroll beneath the canopy, picnic on the verges, or simply sit on a bench with coffee from one of the nearby kissaten.
The blossom typically peaks during the last week of March or the first days of April, depending on the year, and lasts for about a week before the petals begin to fall. In the early mornings and evenings the street is quieter and the light particularly beautiful; at weekends near peak bloom the pavements can be busy.
Because Kunitachi is a residential town rather than a tourist destination, the hanami atmosphere here is more local and relaxed than at heavily visited spots in central Tokyo. Food and drink stalls are minimal; the appeal is the street itself, the cafes, and the generally unhurried mood of the neighbourhood.