Best cherry blossom spots in Fukuoka
May 23, 2023
Best cherry blossom spots in Fukuoka
It is no exaggeration to say that cherry blossom season is the most wonderful time of the year in Japan, and many tourists visit the country to enjoy the beautiful view of the dainty pink petals, every year.
When talking about the famous travel destinations of Kyushu Region, we are certain that everyone must think of “Fukuoka Prefecture”, a location of the renowned Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. However, Fukuoka is not only known for its cultural significance but also for its enchanting cherry blossom spots during the Spring season.
This year, the cherry blossoms in Fukuoka start blooming from mid March, coming into full bloom as it gets closer to the end of the month.
In this feature, we introduce some of the best spots all around Fukuoka where you can enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms.
Index : Best cherry blossom spots in Fukuoka
1. Kokura Castle
Kokura Castle is one of the oldest castles in Japan, located in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan. The castle was built in 1602 by Tadaoki Hosokawa, and the construction was completed in 1608.
The castle was burnt down several times and the current site was fully restored in 1990. A museum called Matsumoto Seicho Memorial Museum, and a castle garden called Katsuyama Park, were opened later in 1998.
There are over 300 cherry trees in the area, which all bloom during spring time. A cherry blossom festival called ‘Kokura Castle Sakura Festival’ is held annually to celebrate the season.
2. Tenjin Central Park
Tenjin Central Park is a public park located in central Fukuoka, and it is home to historic buildings, walking trails, and a fountain plaza. Known for being expansive, the park features a vast area of 3.1 hectares.
The walking trails are lined with cherry trees, making it a fantastic spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.
3. Asai no Ippon Zakura
The ‘Asai no Ippon Zakura’, or known as ‘Hotomeki no Ki (ほとめきの木)’ in Japanese, is an ancient and massive cherry blossom tree located in Kurume City, Fukuoka.
The height of the tree is 18 meters, and its width is around 4.3 meters. The tree is said to be over 100 years old, and it is designated as a conservation tree of the city.
The spot is mainly known for its breathtakingly beautiful ‘inverted cherry blossom’ scenery, which occurs from its reflection on the surface of the pond at night.
4. Kusaba River
Kusaba River is a river in Asakura district, Fukuoka, that is best known for its clean water, vast green area, and beautiful cherry trees.
There are many cherry trees lining both sides of the river, stretching around 2 kilometers, making it a great spot for cherry blossom viewing. In fact, there are countless people flocking there in spring to have picnics under the beautiful cherry trees.
5. Maizuru Park
Maizuru Park is a park built around the Fukuoka Castle Ruins, and it is located within just 15 minutes from Tenjin, the center of Fukuoka City. The park is home to more than 1,000 cherry trees.
The remains of the fortress, including its stone walls, look extremely beautiful in contrast with the white and pink cherry blossom petals. The moat surrounding the castle also creates a lovely reflection of the trees at night.
A cherry blossom festival called ‘Fukuoka Castle Sakura Festival’ is held annually, attracting more than 30,000 visitors a year.
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