Cherry Blossom Spots : Akita Prefecture

Senboku City - Weeping Cherries 400 weeping cherries hang gracefully in the spring air around Kakunodate’s bukeyashiki samurai manors. Of these trees, 152 are more than two centuries old and have received recognition as National Natural Monuments. Peak: Mid Apr - Early May Information: Kakunodate Tourism Assoc 0187-54-2700

Daisen City - Yaotome Park Nearly 2000 yoshino cherries cover the area. In addition, enjoy the fantastic, mountainous view from the observation deck at this park known as the battleground of Minamoto no Yoshiie and Abe no Sadato. Peak: Late Apr - Early May

Odate City - 10,000 Cherries of Iwagami Fureai no Mori Park 22 varieties make up this staggering number of cherries that bloom around the Iwagami Reservoir from late April. This annual spectacle brings cherry blossom lovers from all over. Peak: Late Apr - Early May Access: 15 mins on foot from Odate Sta. Information: Odate Products and Tourism Division 0186-49-3111

Akita City - Senshu Park Built on the ruins of Kubota Castle, residence and stronghold of the affluent Satake Clan, Senshu Park serves as a gathering place for Akita residents. It is famous not only for its cherries, but also for the Oga Lotuses decorating the moat. Peak: Mid Apr - Late Apr Access: 7 mins on foot from Akita Sta. Information: Akita Municipal Commerce and Tourism Division 018-866-2112

Yokote City - Yokote Park In addition to having gorgeous cherries, an observation deck, Akita Shrine, and a rose garden, Yokote Park is host to a Cherry Festival, Rose Festival, and Chrysanthemum Festival. Peak: Late Apr - Early May Access: 9 mins by bus from Yokote Sta., 5 mins on foot from Park bus stop Information: Yokote Division of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism 0182-32-2111

Noshiro City - Cherry Blossoms of Kimimachizaka Azaleas and 1500 cherry trees bloom exquisitely among the giant boulders and mysterious rocks of Kimimachizaka. Come again in late October or early November for great fall foliage. Peak Season: Mid Apr - Early May Transportation: 5 mins by car from Futatsui Sta Information: Noshiro City Futatsui Branch Office 0185-73-4500