Experience the late Cherry Blossoms in Tohoku

The Tohoku region encompasses the northern portion of Japan’s main island and is famous for providing a “second chance” to see the blossoms if you missed the early blooms further south. Because of its cooler climate and diverse geography, the flowering season here lasts much longer, allowing travelers to chase the pink petals from the mountains down to the coastal plains. If you are ready to experience the magic of spring without the intense crowds of the major cities, the north is waiting for you!

Fukushima

As the southernmost part of Tohoku, you can expect to catch the very first local sightings of the season in Fukushima Prefecture! Renowned locations like Hanamiyama Park and the legendary 1,000-year-old Miharu Takizakura tree are essential stops if you plan to enjoy the floral scenery in this area.

Dates: Early April – Mid April

Locations:

(Hanamiyama Park) 〒960-8141 Fukushima, Watari, Hara−１７

(Miharu Takizakura) 〒963-7714, Fukushima, Tamura District, Miharu, Sakurakybo-296 Taki

Miyagi

If you are looking for a way to experience the petals via a scenic ride, Miyagi has just what you need. Situated just above Fukushima, Miyagi offers stunning views along the Shiroishi River. You can also hop on the slope car at Funaoka Castle Park, which carries you through breathtaking tunnels of pink flowers.

Dates: Early April – Mid April

Locations:

(Shiroishi River) 〒989-1201 Oya, Ogawara-machi, Shibata-gun

(Funaoka Castle Ruins Park) 〒989-1606 Tateyama-95-1 Funaoka, Shibata, Shibata District, Miyagi

Yamagata

For those seeking a balanced mix of nature and relaxing public spaces, Yamagata might be the perfect fit. This prefecture offers popular viewing spots such as Kajo Park. Since Yamagata tends to be less crowded with international tourists, you can expect a more local and serene experience under the trees.

Dates: Mid April

Location:

(Kajo Park) 〒990-0826, Yamagata, 1-7 Kajomachi

Iwate

Iwate is home to some of the most celebrated cherry blossom vistas in the entire Tohoku region. Kitakami Tenshochi Park boasts a 2km path lined with over 10,000 trees alongside the Kitakami River. Another iconic sight is the “Ipponzakura,” a majestic, solitary cherry tree standing in the fields of Koiwai Farm.

Dates: Mid-April – Late April

Location:

(Kitakami Tenshochi Park) 〒024-0043, 10 Chiwari Tachibana, Kitakami, Iwate

(Solitary Cherry Tree at Koiwai Farm) 〒020-0507 Iwate, Shizukuishi, Maruyachi, 36−1 Kowai Farm

Akita

Because it has a later blooming schedule, Akita offers opportunities to experience Japan’s spring colors well into the season. The area is steeped in Samurai history, so you can enjoy the blossoms alongside traditional architecture and local festivals in historic towns like Kakunodate.

Dates: Late April – Early May

Location: (Kakunodatemachi) 〒014-0300, Kakunodatemachi, Semboku-shi, Akita

Aomori

If you are looking for an escape from the city during Golden Week to catch the final blossoms of the year, head to Aomori. As the northernmost point of Tohoku, Aomori is widely considered to have the best spring scenery in all of Japan. Hirosaki Park is home to over 2,500 trees surrounding its castle, including a famous moat that turns completely pink as the petals fall.

Dates: Late April – Early May

Location:

(Hirosaki Park) 〒036-8356 Aomori, Hirosaki, Shimoshiroganecho, １

If you are traveling to Japan between April and May and are worried about missing the season in Tokyo, make sure to add these beautiful viewing spots to your itinerary! Contact us now to start planning your perfect spring trip to the Tohoku region.

Featured Photo Credit: iamlukyeee

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