Entrance Ceremony Under Cherry Blossoms – A Petal-Perfect Start
Every April, across Japan, new students walk beneath a flurry of falling petals. But few places capture the magic quite like this slope in Shinagawa. The entrance ceremony under cherry blossoms is more than a rite of passage — it’s a visual poem. As fresh uniforms and shy smiles mix with the soft blush of sakura, a simple school event transforms into a national treasure.
🌸 A Very Japanese Tradition
In Japan, the school year begins in April — right when cherry trees are in bloom. The timing is no accident. Spring is a season of renewal, and schools take full advantage. Entrance ceremonies are carefully staged, often outdoors or near cherry-lined paths. Here in Shinagawa, this local slope is a popular photo spot. You’ll often see parents snapping portraits, students gripping their satchels, and petals clinging to blazer shoulders. It’s both staged and spontaneous — and incredibly photogenic.
📸 Why This Slope?
Though obviously unnamed on tourist maps, this slope has become locally famous for its rows of sakura trees. Their branches arch over the path just wide enough to form a floral tunnel. During school entrance season, it’s not uncommon to see a steady procession of families, teachers, and children posing in the light. The natural framing and soft lighting make it a favorite among amateur photographers and students alike.
🏫Shinagawa Gakuen
Shinagawa Gakuen is a public school that was established by merging Shinagawa Elementary School and Shinagawa Jonan Junior High School in April 2011. It became the fifth integrated elementary and junior high school in Shinagawa Ward and was named “Shinagawa Gakuen”. In April 2016, both schools were officially abolished, and the institution was reorganized as a compulsory education school. The campus also includes the Kita-Shinagawa Sukoyaka-en, an integrated nursery and kindergarten facility for children aged 0 to 5 years old.
The school focuses on supporting the development of children and students, fostering community collaboration through events, and providing a safe and nurturing learning environment.
The entrance ceremony for Shinagawa Gakuen typically takes place around the beginning of April. During this special event, new students are welcomed into the school community, and it marks the start of their educational journey at Shinagawa Gakuen.
It is built within the grounds of the former Tokai-ji temple according to the school Principal.
Official Site
Where is Shinagawa Gakuen?
| what3words | ///times.silver.mocked |
| latitude longitude | 35.6170751535906 139.738359189598 |
| Nearest station(s) | Shinbanba Station (Keikyū Main Line) Kitashinagawa Station (Keikyū Line) |
| Nearest public conveniences | Kodomonomori Park nearby. |
Show me a sign.
The sign is just inside the school gates. Much of it barely legible.
Withervee says…
The school website doesn’t advertise the date. I think this scene is only for pupils and relatives who attend the school and school staff. I’ll probably not witness it unless I stumble across it.
This is where real life goes full Studio Ghibli. The scene only lasts a few days each year, but if you catch it — it’s unforgettable, I’m sure. Smile for the camera ✌️✌️.
From its position it looks the main temple of the Tokai-ji temple complex would be within the school grounds.
Site Character
- Lifestyle 生活 (Seikatsu): ✔️
- Historical Significance 歴史 (Rekishi): ❌
- Atmosphere/Natural Features 風土 (Fūdo): ✔️
Who in their right mind would vote for this?
- Sentimental parents
- School portrait fans
- Cherry blossom chasers
- Photo bloggers
- Uniformed toddlers (They probably weren’t alive at the last vote!)
While You’re There…
Explore nearby Shinagawa Shrine or stroll through Kitashinagawa’s retro shopping street for snacks and souvenirs. Both spots are great under sakura, too.
