Not the NHK taiga drama. Each cherry season I look forward to my favorite spot — the Equestrian Park (2-1-1 Kami-Yoga, Setagaya Ward). When I went on the 14th, it was a bit windy but students were running an obstacle race; horses leaping against double-flowered cherries looked great= photo upper.
Preaching to the choir, but there is no single "double-flowered cherry" variety — it is a general name for cherries whose blossoms swell plump like sakura mochi. The park has many kinds blooming at slightly different times, so from mid-March when Somei-Yoshino opens through mid- to late April — a month or more — you can enjoy many cherries and never tire of weekly visits.
Double cherries at the Equestrian Park include Mikurumagaeshi (御車返し), pale red-purple deepening at the tips; Goshozakura (御所桜), large flowers in clusters of five; Kanzan (関山), deep cherry pink with over 50 petals when abundant; and Fukurokuju (福禄寿), with slightly twisted petals. There is even yellowish Ukon-zakura (鬱金桜). Arches of cherry trees line paths; when no carriages or horses run, the carriage road is perfect for a stroll= photo lower.
Seasonal events for children are another joy. On Sunday, April 21, "Day to Get Close to Horses" offers trial riding, carriage rides, horse attractions like vaulting, stable tours, and more. See the website (http://www.jra.go.jp/bajikouen/index.html) for details. Double cherries should still be enjoyable, and the garden is lovely — now wisteria, peonies, kerria, tulips, pansies, and more are in full bloom. I do not bet on horses, but I am grateful that racing revenue supports such a fine place.
About an hour from downtown including Palaceside. Midway between Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line Sakurashinmachi Station and Odakyu Kyodo Station — 15–20 minutes on foot from each, so the bus is recommended. From Shibuya, buses to Seijo Gakuen-mae, Chofu Station South Exit, or Soshigaya-Okura Station; get off at Nodai-mae, 2–3 minutes on foot.