Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms, but many visitors are surprised to learn that there are different types of sakura to look out for. Shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossoms, known for their long, cascading branches) and yaezakura (double-flowered cherry blossoms with layered, multi-petaled blooms) each offer a unique way to experience hanami season.
To help travelers discover new viewing spots, Jalan News has released its latest ranking of hidden spots for shidarezakura and yaezakura. Jalan is one of Japan’s leading travel platforms, widely known for its accommodation booking services and destination guides. The survey highlights nine of their recommended destinations across the country.
Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossoms – Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture
Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossoms (File photo)
Approximately 1,000 shidarezakura line a 3-kilometre promenade built on a former railway track, forming a spectacular tunnel of blossoms in mid-April. A preserved steam locomotive adds to the charm, and the Kitakata Cherry Blossom Festival takes place during peak bloom.
MIHO MUSEUM – Koka City, Shiga Prefecture
Around 100 weeping cherry trees frame the museum’s approach and tunnel, creating a painterly scene. Morning light enhances the pale pink blossoms, making weekday visits ideal.
Rakuo Sakura – Shirakawa City, Fukushima Prefecture
A 200-year-old crimson shidarezakura within Nanko Shrine grounds, planted by Japanese daimyo Matsudaira Sadanobu. Its elegant drooping flowers convey both history and serenity.
Weeping Cherry Trees on Kakunodate Samurai Residence Street – Semboku City, Akita Prefecture
Weeping Cherry Trees on Kakunodate Samurai Residence Street (File photo)
Historic Edo-period streets are lined with shidarezakura and Somei Yoshino, offering a scenic mix of urban cherry blossom landscapes.
Yuuka no Sato – Kamiyama Town, Tokushima Prefecture
Approximately 500 shidarezakura and 2,500 forsythia trees create a vibrant hilltop panorama, blending pink and yellow in a striking spring display.
Takebe no Mori Park – Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture
Home to about 10,000 cherry trees across 100 varieties, including notable yaezakura such as Kanzan and Fugenzo, forming “cherry blossom curtains” for mid- to late-April viewing.
Cherry Blossoms along Nagatoro Pass – Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
Around 500 yaezakura trees in 31 varieties line walking trails, offering a rainbow of layered blossoms visible from both the path and nearby ropeway.
Oniushi Park – Kayabe District, Hokkaido
Oniushi Park (File photo)
About 500 cherry trees bloom at different times, featuring rare yaezakura varieties like Komamizakura and Horiihizakura, extending the season into mid-May.
Arisugawa Memorial Park – Minato Ward, Tokyo
A serene city park with multiple cherry varieties, from early-blooming Oshima cherry to later-blooming yaezakura, allowing visitors to experience a full spectrum of sakura hues.
en.japantravel.com (Illustration by Japan Travel)
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