The Tohoku region encompasses the northern portion of Japan’s main island and is famous for providing a “second chance” to see the blossoms if you missed the early blooms further south. Because of its cooler climate and diverse geography, the flowering season here lasts much longer, allowing travelers to chase the pink petals from the mountains down to the coastal plains. If you are ready to experience the magic of spring without the intense crowds of the major cities, the north is waiting for you!
Miharu Takizakura in full bloom, Fukushima Prefecture – Photo Credit: Spyan
Fukushima
As the southernmost part of Tohoku, you can expect to catch the very first local sightings of the season in Fukushima Prefecture! Renowned locations like Hanamiyama Park and the legendary 1,000-year-old Miharu Takizakura tree are essential stops if you plan to enjoy the floral scenery in this area.
Dates: Early April – Mid April
Locations:
(Hanamiyama Park) 〒960-8141 Fukushima, Watari, Hara−１７
(Miharu Takizakura) 〒963-7714, Fukushima, Tamura District, Miharu, Sakurakybo-296 Taki
Tourists ride in a slope car, enjoying a romantic, joyful trip through a forest of beautiful cherry blossom trees (Sakura) on the hillside & up to a viewpoint in Funaoka Castle Park – Photo Credit: AaronChenPS2
Miyagi
If you are looking for a way to experience the petals via a scenic ride, Miyagi has just what you need. Situated just above Fukushima, Miyagi offers stunning views along the Shiroishi River. You can also hop on the slope car at Funaoka Castle Park, which carries you through breathtaking tunnels of pink flowers.
Dates: Early April – Mid April
Locations:
(Shiroishi River) 〒989-1201 Oya, Ogawara-machi, Shibata-gun
(Funaoka Castle Ruins Park) 〒989-1606 Tateyama-95-1 Funaoka, Shibata, Shibata District, Miyagi
Beautiful view of full-bloomed Cherry blossoms (Sakura) and the old Japanese bridge in Kajo park – Photo Credit: Foofa Jearanaisil
Yamagata
For those seeking a balanced mix of nature and relaxing public spaces, Yamagata might be the perfect fit. This prefecture offers popular viewing spots such as Kajo Park. Since Yamagata tends to be less crowded with international tourists, you can expect a more local and serene experience under the trees.
Dates: Mid April
Location:
(Kajo Park) 〒990-0826, Yamagata, 1-7 Kajomachi
Cherry blossoms bloom or sakura seen from the observation deck at Kitakami Tenshochi Park – Photo Credit: jirobkk
Iwate
Iwate is home to some of the most celebrated cherry blossom vistas in the entire Tohoku region. Kitakami Tenshochi Park boasts a 2km path lined with over 10,000 trees alongside the Kitakami River. Another iconic sight is the “Ipponzakura,” a majestic, solitary cherry tree standing in the fields of Koiwai Farm.
Dates: Mid-April – Late April
Location:
(Kitakami Tenshochi Park) 〒024-0043, 10 Chiwari Tachibana, Kitakami, Iwate
(Solitary Cherry Tree at Koiwai Farm) 〒020-0507 Iwate, Shizukuishi, Maruyachi, 36−1 Kowai Farm
Sakura Cherry Blossom in Kakunodate Samurai village or Little Kyoto in Kakunodate town, Semboku District – Photo Credit: Jo Panuwat D
Akita
Because it has a later blooming schedule, Akita offers opportunities to experience Japan’s spring colors well into the season. The area is steeped in Samurai history, so you can enjoy the blossoms alongside traditional architecture and local festivals in historic towns like Kakunodate.
Dates: Late April – Early May
Location: (Kakunodatemachi) 〒014-0300, Kakunodatemachi, Semboku-shi, Akita
Aomori Prefecture Hirosaki Castle Sakura Festival – Photo Credit: Spyan
Aomori
If you are looking for an escape from the city during Golden Week to catch the final blossoms of the year, head to Aomori. As the northernmost point of Tohoku, Aomori is widely considered to have the best spring scenery in all of Japan. Hirosaki Park is home to over 2,500 trees surrounding its castle, including a famous moat that turns completely pink as the petals fall.
Dates: Late April – Early May
Location:
(Hirosaki Park) 〒036-8356 Aomori, Hirosaki, Shimoshiroganecho, １
If you are traveling to Japan between April and May and are worried about missing the season in Tokyo, make sure to add these beautiful viewing spots to your itinerary! Contact us now to start planning your perfect spring trip to the Tohoku region.
Featured Photo Credit: iamlukyeee
