Cherry blossom season is here! Spring, when cherry blossoms bloom, is a special time for the Japanese, who spend enjoyable moments with family and friends under the cherry blossoms.
Not only during full bloom, but also appreciating the beauty and tranquility after the petals have fallen quietly is the essence of cherry blossom viewing.
This time, we have carefully selected hidden gem spots where you can leisurely enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms! Instead of the city center or famous tourist spots, we will introduce cherry blossom viewing spots centered around places loved by locals.
Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Tree in Fukushima
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The first one is the "Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Tree" located in Fukushima. This place exhibits the steam locomotives that once ran on the Nicchu Line, a former railway in Japan. Part of the former Nicchu Line, which was discontinued in 1984, has been developed into a promenade.
The attraction of this Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Tree lies in its weeping cherry blossoms. From the promenade entrance, a 5-minute walk west of Kitakata Station, approximately 1,000 weeping cherry trees bloom beautifully like a tunnel along a 3 km stretch. The best viewing period is from mid to late April.
The weeping cherry blossom tunnel is also known as a sacred place for photography. Especially during full bloom, many photographers visit to capture the beautiful scenery. Taking commemorative photos under the cherry blossom tunnel will surely become a lifelong memory!
Kawazu Cherry Blossoms in Shizuoka
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If you want to see cherry blossoms early, the "Kawazu Sakura" is highly recommended! Kawazu Sakura is an early-blooming cherry blossom that starts flowering from early February, discovered in Kawazu Town, Izu. A local specialty of Kawazu Town, the cherry blossoms blooming by the riverbank are a must-see.
The usual flowering period is from early February to early March, and the full bloom period lasts for about 1 week to 10 days. Not only during full bloom but also when they are about halfway to two-thirds bloomed, they are still stunning, providing ample satisfaction for viewing.
Every year, the Kawazu Sakura Festival is held, attracting crowds. Along the Kawazu River, approximately 850 cherry blossoms bloom, boasting a total of about 8,000 cherry blossoms. During the festival, various stalls, cherry blossom illuminations, and events are held, making the atmosphere even livelier!
Nagayu Hot Spring Weeping Cherry Blossom Village in Oita
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Located in Naoiri-blocki, Taketa City, Oita Prefecture, "Nagayu Hot Spring Weeping Cherry Blossom Village" is known as a new cherry blossom spot. Situated at the foot of the Kuju Mountains, it boasts a vast area of approximately 100,000 square meters in a rich natural setting.
Within this area, you can enjoy the beauty of approximately 2,600 cherry trees, including six varieties. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom from late March to mid-April, attracting many tourists, especially during the peak viewing period.
This natural park, with the largest weeping cherry tree in western Japan and six varieties of cherry blossoms, allows you to enjoy seasonal flowers such as rapeseed blossoms and narcissus. Furthermore, there are tourist spots nearby such as Nagayu Hot spring and the Taketa Spring Group.
Ono Zakura Zatumi Corridor in Hyogo
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This cherry blossom avenue features five varieties of cherry trees, including Edohanami, Oshima cherry, Somei Yoshino, Yae Kurenai Shidare, and Omoigawa, beautifully planted along the riverbank in order of blooming from upstream to downstream. Approximately 650 cherry trees quietly line the avenue, spanning about 4 kilometers.
The cherry blossoms are in full bloom from late March to early April, allowing you to enjoy them for an extended period. Additionally, along the embankment, there are "upside-down cherry blossoms" where cherry trees are reflected on the water surface, adding to the enchanting scenery.
The walking path stretches about 8 km round trip and is equipped with benches and toilets. On a warm spring day, you can leisurely spend time admiring the cherry blossoms.
Great acclaim overseas! Types of Cherry Blossoms Found in Japan
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In Japan, there are approximately 600 varieties of cherry blossoms, and their beauty and diversity are admired worldwide. Among them, the famous cherry blossom varieties include "Somei Yoshino," "Yamazakura," and "Edohiganzakura."
Somei Yoshino
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"Somei Yoshino" is the most popular cherry blossom variety in Japan, blooming with vibrant pink flowers in spring at famous cherry blossom spots. Its flowers are small and densely clustered along the branches, creating the iconic cherry blossom tunnels.
Yamazakura
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"Yamazakura" is a wild cherry blossom variety that grows naturally in mountainous areas, as its name suggests. Its flowers come in various shades from pale pink to white, and the shapes of the petals also vary. Generally, it blooms later than Somei Yoshino, allowing for a longer enjoyment of the cherry blossom season.
Edohigan-zakura
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"Edohigan-zakura" is one of the classic cherry blossom varieties in Japan, symbolizing the arrival of spring. Its flowers are of a slightly deeper pink color, with petals thicker than those of Somei Yoshino, and there are also double-flowered varieties.
These famous cherry blossoms are iconic symbols of spring in Japan and are beloved by many people.
Enjoy the Japanese spring by seeing beautiful cherry blossoms!
Have you found your favorite spot among the many cherry blossom viewing sites? In Japan, spring paints the streets with shades of pink as people immerse themselves in the cherry blossom viewing mood. The magnificent scenery created by cherry blossom tunnels and avenues is truly awe-inspiring.
Why not experience the joy of Japanese spring by spreading out a picnic blanket under the cherry trees, feeling the beauty of the blossoms in full bloom and the fleeting delicacy after they fall, while enjoying delightful moments with friends and family?
Be sure to visit cherry blossom viewing spots and witness the beauty firsthand. You'll surely be captivated by the charm of Japan's spring!
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