Intro
This week is World Heritage Day and what better way to celebrate it than in Japan during cherry blossom season. Japan is a country of culture, history, and beautiful nature - all year round, but perhaps never more so than during springtime when the sakura - Japanese cherry blossom trees - are in full bloom. A new study recently found that 63 million people travel to and within Japan to witness the breathtaking spectacle of cherry blossoms, but for those of us who want to avoid the crowds this World Heritage Day, where are the lesser known sakura hotspots? We’ve used our years of expertise here at www.jrpass.com to pull together a list that will allow you to experience hanami away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds and in a more serene setting. Let’s take a look.Experience Hanami this World Heritage Day
Top 10 Hidden Cherry Blossom Destinations
- Miharu Shidarezakura (Fukushima)
Sharing the top spot with only one Instagram post under its hashtag, Miharu Shidarezakura is renowned for being one of Japan’s most revered cherry blossom trees. The majestic weeping cherry tree is estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Its cascading pink blossoms resemble a flowing waterfall in spring. Designated as a national natural monument, Miharu Shidarezakura stands nearly 13 meters tall and has a canopy spreading over 20 meters wide. Located in the rural area of Fukushima Prefecture, it offers a captivating and peaceful experience or hanami (traditional custom where people gather under cherry blossom trees (sakura) to enjoy their beauty) removed from the bustling crowds of Kyoto and Tokyo.
2. Shizunai Nijukken Road (Hokkaidō)
Also claiming just one Instagram post under its hashtag, Shizunai Nijukken Road in Hokkaidō is a picturesque 7-kilometer stretch lined with approximately 3,000 cherry trees. Perfect for those who prefer a road-trip style experience. This avenue feels cinematic, with the endless rows of blossoms creating a tunnel of pink every spring. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts seeking perfect perspective shots with calm foot traffic ensuring a tranquil and immersive experience.
3. Yunoko Cherry Line (Kumamoto)
With a single Instagram post under its hashtag, the Yunoko Cherry Line is a hidden coastal treasure. This 5-kilometer long road is an unmissable sight in Kumamoto Prefecture. Around 500 Somei Yoshino cherry trees line the scenic drive along the Ariake Sea, offering picturesque views of pink blossoms contrasting with the green forest, perfect for drone photography. You can also relax in the nearby Yunoko Hot Springs nearby.
4. Ōhirasan Prefectural Natural Park (Tochigi)
With four Instagram posts under its hashtag, Ōhirasan Prefectural Natural Park located in Tochigi Prefecture is a stunning year-round destination. During cherry blossom season, the park transforms into a pink wonderland, with sakura trees next to mountain landscapes, shrines, and scenic viewpoints, making it ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Unlike crowded parks in Tokyo, Ōhirasan provides a quiet retreat where visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms.
5. Kasagiyama Natural Park (Kyoto)
Also featuring four Instagram posts under its hashtag, Kasagiyama Natural Park is another haven for nature lovers. While Kyoto’s famous cherry blossom spots like Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path get overwhelmed with visitors, Kasagiyama Natural Park remains a hidden gem. Known for its vibrant autumn colors during Fall, the park becomes pink in Spring. Visitors can enjoy serene walks around the cherry trees in a peaceful and lesser-known alternative to more mainstream hanami locations.
6. Kamagatani Valley (Gifu)
Claiming five Instagram posts under its hashtag, Kamagatani Valley is an ideal location for those looking to enjoy cherry blossoms away from urban distractions. Visitors can stroll along paths with magnificent views, capturing unique perspectives from below or from the bridge that offers closer views of the cherry trees. Visitors can take a restful hike through the valley or enjoy a serene picnic beside the water with cherry petals floating by.
7. Shichikawa Dam (Wakayama)
Also with five Instagram posts under its hashtag, the Shichikawa Dam in Wakayama is another hidden gem. The blue-green waters of the reservoir are a spectacle in themselves, but when coupled with the cherry blossoms, the scene becomes fascinating. Less crowded than major attractions, it offers a peaceful retreat into nature making it a very picturesque yet under the radar hanami spot in Japan.
8. Matsuyama Shiroyama Park (Ehime)
Holding six Instagram posts under its hashtag, Matsuyama Shiroyama Park provides a simple yet captivating hanami experience. The park offers views of cherry blossoms juxtaposed against the cityscape, making it a worthwhile visit for those seeking both nature and urban scenery. Near the Matsuyama Castle, this park offers a blend of nature and history, with cherry trees providing a picturesque frame for one of Japan’s most well-preserved castles.
9. Tsurugajō Park (Fukushima)
Counting ten Instagram posts under its hashtag, Tsurugajō Park is home to the iconic Tsuruga Castle. The beautiful and calm park, combined with the historic castle offers an enriching experience of Japan's heritage amidst blooming cherry trees, perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers.
10. Usuzumi Park (Gifu)
Boasting twelve Instagram posts under its hashtag, Usuzumi Park is a remarkably peaceful alternative to mainstream locations like Mount Yoshino. Described by locals as romantic and relaxing, it's an ideal place to visit with loved ones and immerse oneself in the quiet beauty of cherry blossoms.
From Nature to History
Alongside nature and Japan’s famous cherry blossom season, World Heritage Day is also a great time to embrace a country’s history and culture. In our bonus recommendations further below you’ll find some extra suggestions for history, art, culture, and more. As well as this, Japan has a wealth of official UNESCO World Heritage sites that would mark a fitting way to celebrate the day. These include:
- Itsukushima Shinto Shrine
Many travellers quickly put the island of Miyajima on their Japan itinerary when they see photos of the enchanting floating Torii Gate. What they might not realise is that the island, also known as Itsukushima, is a UNESCO world heritage site. The Shinto shrine on Itsukushima has been considered a sacred place since the 6th century and although it was rebuilt in the 12th century, it reflects the long-held traditions and architectural aesthetic of ancient Shintoism in Japan. How to get there: It’s possible to take the ferry from Hiroshima across to Miyajima for free as it’s a bonus extra included with the Japan Rail Pass.
- Himeji Castle
Japan is home to its fair share of castles, but none quite compare with Himeji-jo. This magnificent castle in the city of Himeji is widely considered to be one of Japan’s most beautiful and impressive castles. So, it’s no surprise that it’s also found its way on to the world heritage register for being the best preserved example of traditional Japanese castle architecture from the Shogun period. Himeji Castle and its 83 buildings highlight the intricate system of defences used by feudal lords to maintain control, as well as the masterful woodwork that went into their construction. How to get there: Himeji sits on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, making it incredibly easy to reach from either Osaka or Hiroshima
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial
It’s hard to fathom the horrific aftermath caused by the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima on 6 August 1945. However, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial created from the last standing structure in the area does its best to act as a reminder of that devastation. The building has been preserved exactly as it was after the bombing and now acts as a symbol for the world peace that so many hope for, particularly a peace where nuclear weapons have been eliminated.
How to get there: Sitting in the heart of Hiroshima, you can take local transport from Hiroshima Station to get to the Peace Memorial. Hiroshima Station is connected by shinkansen to other major cities like Osaka and Tokyo.
Bonus Recommendations
Of course, alongside the cherry blossom, Japan has many more cultural attractions and historic sites to enjoy this World Heritage Day. From the classical to the country, Japan is truly a country of unique history, heritage, art and culture. Here are a few bonus suggestions that would sit well alongside hanami for a Japanese-influenced .
- Read our guide to the Top 10 Destinations to Experience Japan’s History for more ideas, including the likes of the samurai city of Aizuwakamatsu, the Edo-Tokyo Museum, the Nakasendo Way, and more.
- Take A Literary Tour of Japan to find out everything you need to know about Japan’s greatest authors past and present.
- How about getting hands on yourself? Experience part of Japan’s culture by reading How To Learn The Art of Calligraphy?
- Those interested in art and culture should definitely check out our guide to Naoshima Art Island - a small island in the Seto inland sea between Okayama and the main island of Shikoku that’s famous for both its modern indoor and outdoor art.
