The Peninsula Tokyo Welcomes Spring with Sakura Art and Afternoon Tea

As part of its commitment to sharing the unique cultural traditions of each destination, The Peninsula Tokyo will once again showcase a stunning and meaningful artwork in its lobby from March 1 to May 9, 2025. This grand installation, titled The Peninsula Tokyo + Sakura + Art, is created by renowned father-and-son artists Shoryu and Yoho Hatoba. It pays tribute to both Japan’s beloved cherry-blossom season and the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Displayed at the hotel’s entrance, the artwork will serve as a striking focal point. Measuring an impressive 7.6 meters in height and 11.2 meters in width (about 25 feet by 36 feet), it is designed to welcome both the arrival of spring and visitors to the hotel.

This installation combines traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic techniques. It is inspired by the famous painting Cherry Tree, originally created around 1593 by Japanese artist Hasegawa Kyuzo, now considered a national treasure. The Hatoba artists have recreated this masterpiece in a digital format, depicting a majestic sakura (cherry blossom) tree with delicate gold and soft pink petals. Using a special printing method, the image has been transferred onto traditional washi paper and then cut into 112 vertical strips. These strips will be suspended from above, forming a shimmering curtain of color that moves gently with the air.

The artwork also incorporates another long-standing Japanese tradition—the Kamon, or family crest. These symbols have been used for centuries to represent families, individuals, and, more recently, businesses. For this installation, the artists have designed a unique Kamon specifically for The Peninsula Tokyo. Subtly blended into the background of the artwork, this crest takes the shape of a delicate sakura blossom, with the letter “P” appearing in each petal.

As third- and fourth-generation Kamon artists, Shoryu and Yoho Hatoba are highly skilled in this traditional art form. By combining their deep knowledge of historical techniques with modern digital tools, they create designs that honor Japan’s past while embracing the future.

In addition to the artwork, The Peninsula Tokyo celebrates cherry-blossom season with its annual Sakura Afternoon Tea. Served in The Lobby restaurant on an elegant silver birdcage stand, this seasonal experience features a selection of savory bites, sakura-themed sweets, and freshly baked scones. Guests can choose from a variety of signature Peninsula teas while enjoying the artistic ambiance of The Lobby, accompanied by live music from the balcony. The Sakura Afternoon Tea is available daily from 11:30 am to 8:30 pm until April 30 and is priced at JPY 9,000 per person, including a glass of a non-alcoholic cocktail.