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Posted: March 4
Cherry Blossom Viewing in Kyotango
One of Japan’s most famous symbols is the Sakura, or cherry blossom. When they bloom in spring people flock to parks to picnic under the flowers. They call this hanami (flower viewing), and it makes a great reason for a picnic with friends and family.
Timing for the Best Blooms
Anticipating when the cherry blossoms will open can be a tricky thing. But we will try to keep you updated with accurate information over here. At the time of publication (March 4th, 2024), the first blossoms are expected between the 20th and 30th of March.
The full bloom usually happens about a week after the first blossoms and usually last for another week or so. This year in Kyotango, if the current predictions are accurate, we are looking at around April 1st for peak bloomage. Making the weekend of the 30th-31st or the 6th-7th if they are later, the best options for a weekend flower viewing visit to the countryside before heading back to the big cities.
Cherry Blossom Spots
While any spot with a few cherry trees could be a picnic spot. Based on ambiance, accompanying events, and location; we’ve gathered some of the best “hanami” spots in Kyotango together here so you can get the most out of your holiday.
Mineyama General Park
With Kyotango’s main baseball stadium, and several sets of tennis courts, the general park is something of a sports attraction. However, on the approaching road and the hill down to the lake there are dozens of cherry blossom trees.
It’s an excellent place to take a walk around and enjoy various views of the spring scenery. There is also plenty of space to sit down if you’re in the mood for a picnic. The central location makes it easy to access
Nyoiji Temple
This flower temple is stunning to visit all year round, but it really shines in spring. The pale white of the cherry blossoms contrasting with the dark wood of the old temple buildings is truly stunning.
But it’s not just the cherry blossoms the bright pink of the three-leaved azaleas are a stunning site. They coat the entire south facing hill and are gorgeous to gaze upon. Fortunately they blossom at the same time as the cherry trees.
Located next to Kumihama Bay, Nyoiji Temple is just out of the way enough that there isn’t very much noise pollution, making it a very relaxing refuge.
Lake Hanare
Hanare yama is a peninsula in Lake Hanare and has a foot path lined with two varieties of cherry trees that go all the way around it. The two types of trees blossom about a week apart so you can enjoy the full bloom for longer.
Lanterns are strung along the path and are lit up in the evening, making for a magical experience. All along the path are benches as well as plenty of space to set out a picnic blanket. There is even a play area with some swings for children.
Plenty of parking and nearby bus stops makes this spot super accessible.
Kuragaki Sakura Park
Kuragaki Sakura Park features a hill which is covered in cherry trees. They also host a cherry blossom festival timed to coincide with the best time for viewing. Once the sun sets they even do a light-up so you can enjoy the blossoms into the evening.
Tennyo no Sato
Set in the hills away from the town Tennyo no Sato is surrounded by nature, and is one of the most idyllic cherry blossom viewing spots on this list. The cherry trees line the river partially encircling this campground, creating a lovely sweep of pinkish-white through the grounds.
All along the river are picnic tables offering a slightly more sophisticated cherry blossom experience than other locations (booking is required). They also host a cherry blossom festival where various hand made foods are for sale.
Minekuen
Minekuen is a cherry tree oasis in the middle of town. Nestled in the curve of the Takeno River the cherry trees will fill your view as the path gently guides you along. There is plenty of room between the trees to put a blanket down and enjoy a snack.
Tango Matsushima (Coast road)
Driving along the coast road towards Kyogamisaki Lighthouse is a great pleasure to experience in Kyotango. It is made all the better if you include a stop at the Tango Matsushima observation point with the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
There are an abundance of trees nearby and pockets of cherry trees on the hills. It’s a chance to enjoy the some of the best the coast and the blossoms have to offer too. There isn’t a lot of room for a full picnic but it makes for a great short break.
Waterside Park Yasaka
Perfect for photo-ops and picnics the Waterside Park in Yasaka is a great spot to visit. There is a long arch of cherry blossoms so you can be fully surrounded by the gentle pinkish hue. On the other side of the river there are several cherry blossoms along the embankment too.
At the end of the cherry blossom arch is a sitting area and a small flower garden with a little stream running through it; the perfect place to sit and enjoy the spring weather for a while.
Bonus Location: almost anywhere
Cherry blossoms aren’t just planted in accessible parks and orchards, this iconic symbol of Japan can be found just about anywhere during the blossom season. A lot of the trees here won’t have been planted with a cherry blossom viewing picnic in mind, rather they are just adding to the lovely spring ambiance that Japan enjoys.
Taku Shrine has a spray of blossoms across its hill – Mineyama Blossoms by the Kyotango City History Center – Amino Row of cherry trees next to the road – Kotohikihama Cherry Blossoms by the railway bridge – Amino
Make sure you remember your picnic blanket and to pick up a few goodies from the convenience store on your way and you will be all set for “hanami” in Kyotango.
If you’re looking for other things to do in Kyotango in the Spring make sure you check out articles below.
