Covid-19 coronavirus has shuttered businesses worldwide. While Tokyo’s cafés and restaurants are open and running, most tourist attractions are temporarily closing their doors. This now includes the multi-storey Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Nakameguro, which is one of the most beautiful Starbucks in Japan.
In line with the official advice to discourage group gatherings as a means to curb the spread of the coronavirus, Starbucks Reserve Roastery is temporarily closing from March 20 until March 29 due to the large crowds that usually gather here during cherry blossom season. The Roastery prides itself on the gorgeous flowers that bloom every spring along the Meguro River; its rose-gold coffee roaster is even decorated with sakura motifs. The third and fourth floor terraces boast a grand view of the blossoming trees and is one of the most popular places to enjoy hanami (flower viewing). The Roastery's reopening date is subject to change as the closure is dependent on the blooming sakura.
Food stalls are still set up along the Meguro River even though the cherry blossom festival is cancelled. People are advised to not hold hanami parties and instead, should just walk along the river and admire the blossoms while being mindful of social distancing.
Homebound? Have an indoor hanami with these 360º VR videos showing Japan's best sakura destinations while sipping on some DIY Quarantini cocktails.