Each year from around mid-April to early May, Iwate's Kitakami Tenshochi Park is home to a cherry blossom festival that celebrates the beauty of the spring season. As the event runs over the Golden Week holiday break, there are carp streamers hung over the Kitakami River, along with boat cruises, horse carriage rides under sakura tree-lined pathways, and more.
In total, the park is home to around 10,000 cherry trees, and it has been designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom viewing spots. After dark, the trees at the park are illuminated, and their reflection off the river is nothing short of magical.
Admission to the park is free of charge.
Getting there
The Kitakami Tenshochi Sakura Festival is located around 20 minutes on foot from the east exit of the JR Kitakami Station, served by the Tohoku Shinkansen, the Tohoku Main Line, and the Kitakami Line.
For those who plan to drive, on-site parking is available at a cost of 500 yen per vehicle. The parking charge is used to support the conservation and the cultivation of the cherry trees here.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
