Imagine strolling along a 20-kilometer path lined with thousands of vibrant cherry trees under a sky painted pink. This isn’t just a dream, it’s a reality in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture.
Local residents, with a deep love for their beloved Mount Iwaki, planted thousands of Sargent cherry trees up to its base. These trees thrive in cold climates and are renowned for their brilliant pink blossoms.
The view from this path is truly spectacular! Snowcapped Mount Iwaki forms a stunning backdrop to the blooming trees, with its reflection in nearby waters adding a touch of serenity. The pink branches arch overhead, creating a breathtaking tunnel of color.
The peak of the cherry blossom season here is typically between late April and early May. However, the blooming period varies depending on the elevation since the tree-lined route stretches all the way to the foot of the mountain. You can find updated information on the best viewing times on the Iwakisan Tourist Association’s website, so be sure to check before heading out.
Iwate: A Breathtaking Blend of Nature and History
In Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, the Yonai Water Treatment Plant is a testament to the city’s dedication to both nature and functionality. This National Tangible Cultural Asset, the oldest of its kind in Japan, is home to dozens of graceful Higan-zakura cherry trees.
These trees, preserved and protected by city ordinance, boast deep pink blossoms that hang down gracefully like a waterfall of delicate beauty. The unique charm of blooming cherry trees amidst a water treatment plant is a sight that will leave you speechless.
Every year, around 30,000 cherry blossom enthusiasts flock to this unique location. While the plant continues to perform its vital function, the grounds are open to the public only during peak bloom. The exact dates are available on the plant’s website and the Morioka Tourist and Convention Association website. It’s important to note that no smoking, food, beverages, pets, or sitting on the facilities are permitted on the grounds. Instead, take a leisurely stroll through this enchanting landscape.
Akita: A Symphony of Pink, Yellow, and Blue
In Ōgata, Akita Prefecture, the Sakura and Nanohana Road is a vibrant tapestry of cherry blossoms and nanohana, a type of flowering rapeseed. This 11-kilometer-long stretch along Prefectural Highway 298 is a true visual feast.
The combination of pink cherry blossoms and bright yellow nanohana creates a captivating contrast against the azure sky, signaling the arrival of spring in Akita. The road is a sight to behold, with over 3,700 cherry trees and 11 hectares of rapeseed flowers in full bloom.
During late April and early May, the village hosts an annual cherry blossom and nanohana festival. Visitors can enjoy model railroads running through the fields and indulge in Akita’s regional delicacies, such as rice flour gyōza made with locally grown grains, at the roadside shopping facility. This enchanting destination truly embodies the spirit of spring.
