10 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Nara & When To See Sakura Festivals!
Nara's cherry blossom (sakura) season usually starts from the last week of March and into the first two weeks of April. This region, home to spectacular natural scenery, is one of Japan's popular destinations for blossoms. The Somei Yoshino cherry tree, a variety developed in the last century, lends a mysterious beauty to the region.
As you plan your cherry blossom viewing trip, here are ten of Nara’s best blossom spots, ranging from some of the most well-known to the more obscure, along with information on the best time to visit and local festivals.
1. Nara Park: Encounter deer relaxing under the cherry blossoms
Nara Park’s playful deer under the cherry blossoms
Nara Park is located at the foot of Mt. Wakakusa, adjacent to historical cultural heritage sites such as the Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofukuji Temple.
Famous for its 1,300 wild sika deer, the park is one of Japan's top tourist destinations - and a gorgeous site for Nara cherry blossoms. With a total area of 511 hectares, most of the vast site is wooded, but about 1,700 cherry trees grow in the open areas, and the park has been selected as one of Japan's "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots."
Small and elegant Naranokokono Ezakura
With about 800 in total, nearly half of the trees are of the Yaezakura variety. There are also early-blooming Higanzakura and Yamazakura, as well as varieties unique to Nara Prefecture like Nara no Yaezakura, which is the city emblem of Nara City, and Nara no Kokono Ezakura (Nara Kuju Sakura).
Nara no Kokono Ezakura are densely populated in Chayama-enchi at the foot of Mt. Wakakusa. The area is carpeted in petals immediately after full bloom, and is a popular destination for cherry blossom connoisseurs.
The rare light green Gyoiko Sakura blossoms of Nara Kasugano International Forum IRAKA located in the southeast corner of the garden are a must-see.
The current park took shape in 1881
One of Nara Park's other highlights is the area around Sagi-ike Pond and the Ukimido gazebo. The cherry blossoms dye the pond pink, making it a romantic spot. Lit up every year, it's even more fantastic at night.
Best viewing: Late March to late April
Nara Park
The area covering Kasugano-cho, Zoshin-cho, Takabatake-cho, and Noborioji-cho in Nara, Nara
Kintetsunara
0742-22-0375
2. Sahogawa Riverbed: A row of Nara cherry blossom trees planted by a local magistrate
The Saho River, mentioned in the Manyoshu
The Saho River, one of the Yamato River's tributaries, flows through Nara City and is joined by the Akishino River near Yamatokoriyama City before flowing into the Yamato River itself.
Loved since ancient times, many songs about the Saho River are included in the Manyoshu, the oldest existing collection of Japanese poems called waka.
Along both riverbanks, both banks, 5 kilometers of cherry blossom trees continue uninterrupted, making it one of the most famous viewing spots for Nara cherry blossoms.
When in full bloom, the flowers dye the surface of the river pink
According to one theory, the row of trees was planted when Toshiakira Kawaji, a magistrate at the end of the Edo Period, sought to improve Nara's scenery. Since Somei Yoshino cherry trees have a short lifespan, the original trees have been replaced many times.
Still, some older trees are said to have lived for 170 years and the local residents carefully preserve these trees known as "Kawaji sakura." While they aren't specifically marked, they can be identified at a glance, so it's fun to look for them when you visit.
The row of cherry blossom trees carefully tended by local residents is worth a visit
Most visitors stop near Kintetsu Nara Station, where lanterns light up the blossoms during the Sakura Festival, making the season even more lively.
Best viewing: Late March to early April
Saho River / River Cherry Blossom Festival
・Venue: Between Shimocho Keibashi and JR Sahogawa Railway Bridge
・Date and time: Late March to early April; Night light up Sunset - 20:00 (Saturdays and Sundays until 21:00)
・Admission: Free
・Phone: 0742-22-3900 (Nara City Tourist Center)
Sahogawa Riverbed
Horencho, Nara-shi, Nara-ken 630-8113
5-minute walk from Kintetsu Shin-Omiya Station
Phone: 0742-22-3900 (Nara City Tourist Center)
3. Yamato-Koriyama Castle Ruins: See the Gotenzakura from the castle tower
You can see the cherry blossoms in bloom around the castle ruins from the castle tower observatory
Yamatokoriyama City is a castle town adjacent to southwest Nara City. Yamato-Koriyama Castle was reportedly built in the Middle Ages by Akechi Mitsuhide and Todo Takatora and based on the administrative offices of the late Heian period (around the latter half of the 12th century).
It has been selected as one of the "Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles" and "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan" and currently exists as "Yamato-Koriyama Castle Ruins Park."
The wonderful synergy of stone walls and cherry blossoms
When Toyotomi Hideyoshi's younger brother, Toyotomi Hidenaga, became the owner of the castle, he expanded it by converting tombstones and Buddha statues for use in the walls. This rough "nozura" stone wall remains to this day, and its visible upside-down Buddha face has become a tourist attraction known as "Sakasa Jizo."
Approximately 800 cherry trees, called "Gotenzakura," have been planted around the water-filled moat. The petals fall on the moat's surface, creating a "flower raft" that's also one of the castle's springtime attractions. The Yamato-Koriyama Castle Festival is held as these Nara cherry blossoms come into bloom, and includes parades of armor-wearing participants.
At night, you can enjoy the fantastic cherry blossoms illuminated by the light of Bonbori lanterns
Best viewing: Late March to early April
Yamato-Koriyama Castle Festival
・Venue: Around the castle tower, etc.
・Date and time: Late March to early April. Cherry blossoms are lit up from 18:00 - 21:00. Other event times period procession, citizen parade, etc. vary.
・Admission: Inquiry required
・Inquiries: 0743-53-1151 (Yamatokoriyama City Hall, Regional Promotion Division, Tourism Strategy Office)
・Phone: 0743-52-2010 (Yamatokoriyama City Tourism Association)
・Castle admission: Free
Yamato-Koriyama Castle Ruins
Jonaicho, Yamatokoriyama-shi, Nara-ken 639-1011
7-minute walk from Kintetsu Koriyama Station on the Kintetsu Kashihara Line, or a 15-minute walk from JR Koriyama Station
Phone: 0743-52-2010 (Yamatokoriyama City Tourism Association)
Castle admission: Free
4. Takada Senbonzakura: Often found in top blossom spot rankings
A stunning cherry blossom tunnel that stretches 2.5 kilometers north and south on both banks
The cherry blossoms on the banks of the Takada River, which flows through Yamatotakada City, the site of Senritsudera Temple, were first planted in 1948 by local volunteers.
Known as "Takada Senbonzakura," it has become one of the most visited Nara cherry blossom destinations. Along a 2.5 kilometer stretch, about 1,200 Yoshino, Yamazakura, Itohigan, Itozakura, and Yaezakura cherry trees bloom each spring.
The combination of trains and cherry blossoms is a beloved sight
Relatively easy to get to, 70-year-old trees have beautiful branches and the blossoms that decorate the gentle banks of the Takada River center around Onaka Park, always drawing a crowd.
Bonbori lanterns, lit at dusk, are also part of the show and attract nightly visitors to witness the fantastic illuminated cherry blossoms.
The number of cherry blossoms and the length of the row of trees are overwhelming! The branches are also wonderful!
Best viewing: Late March to early April
Folk Song, Dance, and Nodate Festival
・Venue: Onaka Park, Yamatotakada City, Nara Prefecture, around Takada River
・Holding period (date and time): First Sunday in April * Illumination is from 18:30 to 21:00 (during the flowering period)
・Admission: Free
・Phone: 0745-22-1101 (Yamatotakada City Industrial Promotion Division)
Takada Senbon Sakura
183, Onaka, Yamatotakada Shi, Nara Ken, 635-0095, Japan
10-minute walk from Kintetsu Takadashi Station, a 13-minute walk from Kintetsu Yamatotakada Station, or a 13-minute walk from JR Takada Station
0745-22-1101
Admission: Free
5. Ishibutai Kofun: A postcard-like scene! Nara cherry blossoms add color to the huge tumulus
Built in the 6th century, Ishimuro Kofun was constructed by stacking 30 megaliths
The Ishibutai Kofun is a burial mound from the late Kofun period (around the 7th century) in Asuka, in Nara's Takaichi District. Due to the collapse of the horizontal upper portion of the stone chamber and its appearance, the kofun is referred to as a "stone stage."
The chamber is 19.1 meters long, with the entrance chamber (housing the casket) itself measuring about 4.7 meters high, 3.5 meters wide, and 7.6 meters deep. The total weight of the massive stones is estimated to be 2,300 tons.
The combination of Nanohana and cherry blossoms is one of the area's highlights
The area around Ishibutai Kofun is now a park. When about 60 Yoshino cherry trees bloom around the stone stage, they are lit up, giving Asuka's ancient historical site a surreal atmosphere.
The stone stage looks like a reclining body surrounded by a beautiful cherry blossom landscape
Best viewing: Late March to late April
Ishibutai Kofun
254, Shimasho, Asuka-mura, Takaichi-gun, Nara
Kashiharajingumae
0744-54-4577
6. Buzan Kagurain Hasedera: The Flower Temple that heals the heart
The courtyard blossoms as seen from the main hall are truly spectacular!
Buzan Kagurain Hasedera is located on the side of Mt. Hase, which is close to the Hase-kaido road that connects Nara and Mie prefectures. Hasedera, surrounded by lush forests, and Mt. Hase have long been known as the "Land of Misogi" as a place of purification.
Said to have been founded in 686, the famous temple appears in The Pillow Book, The Tale of Genji, and Konjaku Monogatari.
The beauty of the cherry blossoms when looking up the 399-step stairway is exceptional
Hasedera, which is solemn yet beautiful and peaceful, is also known as the "Flower Temple" because of the many flowers that grow on the grounds throughout the year, including photinia, peony, and lotus.
The temple is beautiful in all seasons but is exceptional in spring. Approximately 1,000 Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Yaezakura trees bloom around Hasedera, as well as especially spectacular Shidarezakura weeping cherry trees.
The famous temple is loved for its flowers
Best viewing: Late March to mid-April
Hasedera Temple
731-1, Hase, Sakurai-shi, Nara
Hasedera
0744-47-7001
7. Onoji Temple: Two Koito Shidarezakura over 300 years old
A must-see for the rare 300-year-old weeping cherry trees
Located along the Uda River that runs through Uda City, Onoji Temple is associated with the Shingon sect's Murouji Temple, which was famous for allowing women to enter, unlike other Shingon temples like those on Mt. Koya.
After passing through the main gate, you'll see the temple's two rare Koito Shidarezakura trees, which are about 300 years old. Also, ten more splendid weeping cherry trees decorate the temple precincts.
Early- and late-blooming trees blossom in sequence, so you can enjoy an extended viewing period
Koito-shidarezakura and Beni-shidarezakura paint the temple grounds
Best viewing: Early April
Onoji Cherry Blossom Festival
・Venue: Onoji grounds
・Date and time: Early to mid-April (Illumination is from sunset to around 21:00) Admission: Standard admission fee applies
・Inquiries: 0745-82-2457 (Uda City Commerce and Tourism Division)
Onoji Temple
1680 Muro Ono, Uda-shi, Nara-ken, 633-0315, Japan
5-minute walk from Muroguchiono Station on the Kintetsu Osaka line
0745-92-2220
Hours: 8:00 - 17:00
Admission: 300 yen
Closed: Open daily
8. Hongo's Matabei Sakura: A cherry tree connected to the Sengoku warlords
One of Japan's most majestic cherry trees, Matabei Sakura
Matabei-zakura in Uda City's Oudahongo district is one of Japan's most famous cherry trees. Encircled by a stone wall, the giant tree's branches spread out majestically with the surrounding trees and flowers completing the picturesque scene.
A member of the Edohigan species, it's approximately 300 years old, and has a height of 13 meters and a trunk circumference of 3 meters. It is named "Matabei-zakura" because it is said to grow on the site of Sengoku warlord Matabei Goto's residence during the siege of Osaka.
The tree's stunning branches, paired with peach blossoms
According to legend, Matabei lived here among the peaceful cherry blossoms, but considering the date of his death and the age of Matabei-zakura, the tree had to have been planted after his passing. However, its splendid appearance is still reminiscent of the legendary warrior.
Matabei Sakura fascinates visitors
Best viewing: Early April to mid-April
Matabei Sakura Festival
・Venue: Surrounding area
・Date and time: Cherry blossom season (Local store hours vary)
・Phone: 0745-82-2457 (Uda City Commerce and Tourism Division)
・Admission: Free (voluntary maintenance donation 100 yen)
Matabezakura
Oudahongo, Uda-shi, Nara-ken 633-2156
18 minutes by Nara Kotsu Bus bound for Ouda from Haibara station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line, get off at Ouda bus stop (the last stop), then a 20-minute walk
Phone: 0745-82-2457 (Uda City Commerce and Tourism Division)
Admission: Free (voluntary maintenance donation 100 yen)
9. Yoshinoyama / Shimosenbon: "Ichimoku Senbon" Yamazakura that cover the world heritage mountain
200種3万本の奇跡の絶景
The cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino are referred to as "Ichimoku Senbon," because visitors can see 1,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom in a single glance.
Because there are so many trees scattered across Mt. Yoshino's slopes, they're divided into four areas: Shimosenbon ("lower thousand" at the foot of the mountain), Nakasenbon ("middle thousand"), Kamisenbon ("upper thousand" near the summit), and Okusenbon ("inner thousand" leading to Mt. Sanjogatake).
The cherry blossoms bloom in sequence, beginning with the "lower thousand" trees
The flowers of the lowest altitude Shimosenbon bloom from the beginning of April until the end of the month. There, visitors can take in the panorama of a thousand cherry trees from the Nanamagarizaka slope and the Shimosenbon observatory, making it a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. At night, the mesmerizing view is lit up for further enjoyment. Shimosenbon has long been known as the section of Mt. Yoshino with the most cherry blossoms.
The Yoshinoyama Ropeway leading to Shimosenbon is within walking distance of Yoshinoyama Station
Best viewing: Early April
Yoshinoyama (Shimosenbon)
Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara-ken 639-3115
Kintetsu Yoshino Line Yoshino Station to Yoshinoyama Ropeway Yoshinoyama Station
Phone: 0746-34-2522 (Yoshino Visitors Bureau)
Admission: Free
10. Yoshinoyama / Nakasenbon: A miraculous view of one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan!
Mt. Yoshino awash with various shades of cherry blossoms. A superb view you must see at least once.
There are countless wonderous cherry blossom viewing spots all over Japan, but if you had to choose only one to visit, you couldn't exclude Mt. Yoshino.
Approximately 200 species and 30,000 cherry trees, mainly Yamazakura, cover the mountain, and during cherry blossom season, the flowers spread like waves from the foot to the summit with overwhelming, magical beauty.
Overlooking Kinpusenji Temple, the main temple of the Shugendo religion, which is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Why are there so many cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino? After a thousand days of penance on Mt. Kinpusen En no Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo, realized the doctrine of Kongo Zao Gongen, which was said to have been carved into a cherry tree, which, in turn, became a sacred tree.
With roots in this legend, the number of cherry trees on Mt. Yoshino grew as Shugendo trainees and adherents continued to plant trees on the mountain. It's no exaggeration to say that the magnificent view has been created by the heartfelt Japanese faith in nature.
In the Nakasenbon area, the trees look like a waterfall flowing along the ridge, creating one of the best vistas.
The magnificent view of Mt. Yoshino covered with cherry blossoms
Best viewing: Mid-April
Yoshinoyama (Nakasenbon)
Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho Yoshino-gun, Nara-ken 639-3115
20 minutes by seasonal bus from Yoshino Station on the Kintetsu Yoshino Line to Nakasenbon Park bus stop
Phone: 0746-34-2522 (Yoshino Visitors Bureau)
Admission: Free
Mount Yoshino
Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara
Yoshino
0746-39-9237
Nara has plenty of unique points of interest in a prefecture where the history of Japan lives on. One of the key attractions is the opportunity to see many types of cherry blossoms throughout the season, each with a distinct appearance, making Nara an excellent destination for your cherry blossom viewing tour.
Text by Click. Translated by Gabriel Wilkinson.
* This article was collected and photographed in March 2020. The cherry blossom season, event schedule, contents, etc. are subject to change.
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