Have you ever heard the Japanese word Anaba (穴場)? Anaba is used to describe a “hidden gem” or “off-the-beaten-path” place where it may not be one of the most famous, but still, it is so beautiful and unique that it’s worth a visit. It is commonly used by locals when talking about a place that few tourists go to and offers a unique experience and amazing landscapes. In this post, we’ll present you some of the best “Anaba spots” that will definitely amaze you.
Prefectural Gongendo Park – Saitama
Gongendo Park filled with cherry blossoms – Photo Credit: Chocotabi Saitama
With more than 1000 cherry blossom trees that line up, creating a 1 km long tunnel, Gongendo Park in Saitama prefecture is one of our hidden sightseeing spots. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom from late March to early April, and during that time, the park holds a Sakura festival, where you can enjoy Hand-made breads, teas, and snacks. You can also buy souvenirs and enjoy illuminated cherry blossom trees at night.
The park also has a day camp place for you to enjoy nature and an amazing kids’ section filled with playground equipment for children to enjoy. Its business hours in March begin at 8:30, so it’s an amazing place to start the day and get some fresh air.
The Gongendo cherry blossoms are a must-see for those who are looking to enjoy a unique experience in Japan. The entrance to the park is free and you can easily access it from Tokyo, just take the Tobu Nikko line to Satte Station, and from there is a quick bus ride or 30-minute walk. Whether you are looking for a place to take pictures, relax, or have a picnic, this park is an excellent option.
Address: 887-3 Uchigouma, Satte, Saitama 340-0103
Fee: Free
Hours: 8:30~17:00
Tenpyo no Oka Park, Tochigi
Diesel-powered replica of a steam locomotive in Tenpyo no Oka – Photo Credit: Visit Tochigi
In Tenpyo no Oka Park, located in Tochigi, the cherry blossoms can be enjoyed for a whole month due to the variety of species in the park. With more than 500 cherry trees, the whole park becomes a pink paradise from late March to early May. In 2024, the 46th ‘Tenpyo Flower Festival’ was held. There, you can enjoy amazing local food stalls, stage performances, cultural exhibitions, and ride a replica of a steam locomotive called “Bouchan.” The park is also famous for the night light-ups, which, combined with the delicate cherry blossoms, create a romantic scenario and a perfect spot for those who enjoy photography.
To get to the park is simple. Take the JR Utsunomiya line to Ishibashi station, and then it’s a short bus ride. The entrance is free, and the working hours are from 10:00 to 17:30 and 10:00 to 20:30 during the night illumination season (from March to April). Tenpyo no Oka Park is the perfect choice for those looking for a blend of culture, nature, and history. The variety of Cherry Blossom species creates a unique place and amazing experience.
Address: 993-1 Kokubunji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0417
Fee: Free
Hours: 10:00~17:30 (in March) 10:00~20:30 (during night illumination season)
Fukuokazeki Sakura Park, Ibaraki
Lake filled with sakura petals at Fukuokazeki Sakura Park in Ibaraki – Photo Credit: Visit Ibaraki
In Tsukubamirai, located in Ibaraki prefecture, more than 450 types of cherry blossoms are lined up, creating a 1.8 km tunnel along with one of the most famous aqueducts in Japan. Through other parts of the park, you can enjoy more than 600 cherry blossom trees planted. You can enjoy the cherry blossoms from March, with their full bloom in the first week of April. They also hold an annual Fukuokazeki Cherry Blossom Festival, with plenty of food trucks and tents. You can enjoy dishes like Ramen, sweet potatoes, rice balls covered with meat, and much more. They also have a stage set up near the trees, so you can enjoy watching performances while having a picnic under the cherry blossoms.
You can take the JR East Joban Line to Kitasenju Station and from there take the Tsukuba Express to Midorinoe Station. Be careful if you’re going by car because there’s a parking fee of 500 yen. Fukuokazeki offers an authentic experience for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination during spring.
Address: 300-2407 Ibaraki, Tsukubamirai, Kitayama, 2633−７
Fee: Entrance free (parking fee of 500 yen)
Hours: 24 hours
Takeda Castle Ruins, Hyogo
Cherry blossoms at the “Castle Floating in the Skies” in Hyogo – Photo Credit: Hyogo Business and Culture Center
The Takeda Castle Ruins, also known as the “Castle Floating in the Skies,” is a short hiking spot located in Hyogo prefecture. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get to the top, and the view in the morning with the sea of clouds is breathtaking. Although during spring, the chances of having a sea of clouds are low, the view itself with the cherry blossoms is definitely something you don’t want to miss when visiting the area. This is a place where history and nature mix perfectly, and those who are passionate about Japanese culture will be amazed by the sight.
It is easy to access from Tokyo, just having to take the Tokaido Line to Himeji and then transferring to the JR Bantan Line. The working hours from March to May are from 8:00 to 18:00 and it has an admission fee of 500 yen per person. The historical charm of the castle’s ruins and the beauty of the cherry blossoms create a stunning atmosphere for those looking for an unforgettable experience.
Address: 〒669-5252 Hyogo, Asago, Wadayamacho Takeda
Fee: 500 yen per person
Hours: 5:00~17:00
Kaizu Osaki, Shiga
Boat sailing at Lake Biwa, in Shiga prefecture – Photo Credit: Biwako Takasahima Travel Guide
Located beside Lake Biwa, the biggest lake in Japan, Kaizu Osaki is famous for its 4 km cherry blossom tree wall. The reflection of the delicate cherry blossom flowers on the serene water, makes this spot one of the best for those looking for a relaxing walk or picnic.
One of the main attractions in this hidden spot is the “Hanami Cruise:” Departing and arriving at the Nagahama depot is a two-and-a-half hour cruise where you have the chance to have a walk at the Kaizu Osaki port. The sailing fee is 4,000 yen for adults and 2,000 yen for children. It sails from late March to early April, and there are three different departure times in a day. Also, the second departure of the day (at 12:15) is a little bit more expensive ( 8,000 yen for adults and 6,000 yen for children), but you get to eat a “Hanami Bento,” a traditional meal, part of hanami (cherry blossom viewing) culture, which is made with seasonal ingredients and carefully put together to reflect the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
You can get to the lake from Tokyo by taking a shinkansen to Maibara Station and after that taking the local bus. It will be a 20-minute ride where you can enjoy the city’s landscapes.
Address: 〒520-1811 Shiga, Takashima, Makino City, Kaizu Osaki
Fee: Cruise (adult 4,000~8,000 yen, child 2,000~6,000 yen)
Hours: 24 hours
Senkoji Park, Hiroshima
Senkoji Park with the cherry blossoms lit up during the night – Photo Credit: Dive Hiroshima! Hiroshima’s official tourism website
Besides Mount Senkoji, the Senkoji Park has one of the most beautiful Sakura scenes in Hiroshima. With more than 1,500 cherry blossom trees, the whole park lights up during the night, so you can enjoy a view you’ve never seen before. The best view of the park is definitely from the top of the mountain, but even if you don’t want to hike, no worries! There is a ropeway that will take you to the top! The one-way ticket is 300 yen, and the round-trip ticket is 500 yen.
Because of its scenic views, relaxing ambiance, and seasonal beauty, Senkoji is also known as one of the “Lover’s Sanctuaries” in Japan, making it a famous couple’s destination. In the park, they sell many goods such as cookies, matching keychains and shirts, and locks with keys that you can lock your love on the “Lover’s Bridge” inside the park.
To get there, take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Fukuyama Station, transfer to the Sanyo Line (to Ominichi), and walk for about 15 minutes to the park.
Address: 19-1 Nishitsuchidocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0032
Fee: Ropeway (300/500 yen)
Hours: The park is 24 hours, but the ropeway works from 9:00 to 17:00
The Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossoms, Okayama
Tunnel made of cherry blossoms creating a pink sky – Photo Credit: The Official Tourism Website of Tohoku, Japan
Be prepared to see cherry blossoms as never before! The Nicchu Line, located in Okayama prefecture, displays weeping cherry trees that look like they came straight out of a fantasy movie. Weeping cherry trees, called Shidarezakura in Japan, are known for their hanging branches that create dreamy scenery. Even though the line isn’t working anymore, it is still kept as a scenic route for those who love photography or for those who just want to enjoy a different atmosphere. The cherry blossom trees create a 1.2 km long curtain, creating a stunning sakura avenue. The unique view, low rate of visitors, and beautiful setting create a romantic mood, making it really popular among couples. The weeping cherry blossoms bloom slightly later than the usual ones (mid to late April), so it is a good destination for late-season sakura viewing.
It is a little far away from Tokyo but definitely worth it! Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Okayama, then transfer to the Sanyo Line to Kurashiki station and from there it is a 15 minutes local bus ride.
Address: 〒966-0896, Suwa, Kitakata Shi, Fukushima Ken
Fee: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Uncover the hidden cherry blossoms in Japan!
Japan’s cherry blossom season offers a special experience for anyone wanting to explore its off-the-beaten-path sights. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic with your family or enjoy an adventurous experience discovering Japan’s history and culture, there’s an “anaba” perfect for you. From the serene Gongendo Park to the breathtaking view of the Takeda Castle Ruins, each scenery provides a remarkable experience made just for you. Visit those sites and find a Japanese cherry blossom experience you have never heard of!
Featured Photo Credit: Fukushima Travel Official Tourism Information Website
