From the early to mid May timeframe, Hokkaido's Shizunai Nijukken Road is an amazing place to enjoy the beauty of sakura season. The route was named as one of Japan's Top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots, and close to 3000 trees line the roadside for approximately 7 kilometers.
When the trees are in bloom the Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival takes place, and there are usually a range of different food vendors and seating set up for visitors to appreciate the blooms. Admission is free of charge.
Getting there
For those driving to the area, the road is approximately 50 minutes driving time from the Hidaka-Mombetsu IC on the Hidaka Expressway.
For those traveling from Sapporo, the travel time is close to two hours drive from Sapporo's New Chitose Airport, or around two and a half hours from the city center. On-site parking is available for around 300 vehicles.
For those using public transport, typically a shuttle bus runs from the JR Shizunai Station (Hidaka Main Line) to the venue. There has been no official word yet if that will still continue this year.
