Guide to Hidden Sakura Spots

Apr 05, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - This weekend, Tokyo boasts a hidden cherry blossom spot you'll definitely want to visit: Ukima Park, near the Arakawa River, with around 150 Somei Yoshino trees lining the embankment, and a windmill to boot.

Another hidden gem is Happo-en Garden, located in Tokyo's Minato ward, showcasing 43 Somei Yoshino cherry trees at their peak.

As night falls, the cherry blossoms reveal a different charm. The garden's famous cherry blossom light-up begins, casting the flowers against the night sky. This year, the display has been enhanced, increasing from 80 to 100 lights, making the blossoms appear even more vivid against the dark.

The cherry blossoms aren't the only attraction. They're paired with tulips, planted four years ago.

The Origin of the Somei Yoshino Name: Yoshino Mountain in Full Bloom

Yoshino Mountain in Nara Prefecture reached full bloom on April 5.

A visitor commented, "When you think of cherry blossoms, Yoshino has to be the place. The scale is massive, and it changes your view of the world."

The mountain, covered in about 30,000 Yamazakura cherry trees, has been a beloved cherry blossom viewing spot for ages.

The name "Somei Yoshino" is actually derived from the beauty of Yoshino Mountain's cherry blossoms. However, an incident involving Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent historical figure, could have drastically changed the future of these cherry blossoms.

Hideyoshi's Furious Incident and the Scenic Cherry Blossom Site

Yoshino Mountain, known for its cherry blossoms, was once the site of a grand hanami event hosted by Hideyoshi, attended by famous warlords and 5,000 people.

Hideyoshi once threatened to burn down the entire Yoshino Mountain if it rained the next morning. After three days of rain and Hideyoshi's irritation, he ordered the monks to pray for clear weather, which miraculously happened, preventing the mountain from being set ablaze.

A visitor from Denmark shared, "Everything is wonderful. The contrast of the cherry blossoms with the deep green of the mountain is beautiful. It's been a great experience."

The head of the World Heritage site mentioned, "For 1,300 years, the cherry blossoms and our ancestors have been preserved. We see this as the first step in continuing to pass this on to future generations."

This weekend is expected to be the best time for cherry blossom viewing, with temperatures nearing 20°C, promising perfect conditions for enjoying the spectacle.

Source: ANN

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