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Marvel at the Weeping Cherry Trees in Okazaki, Kyoto
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Okazaki in Kyoto is one of the best places to see the shidare-zakura or weeping cherry trees. In fact, Okazaki is packed with places to marvel at these seasonal favorites in spring. If you're planning a trip to Kyoto in springtime, a stop here should not be missed!
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If you're planning on visiting Japan in spring, we recommend creating an itinerary around places known for their stunning cherry blossoms. Okazaki, Kyoto is one such place where visitors can see the old city alongside several varieties of cherry blossoms.
Heian Jingu Shrine and Its Famous Cherry Blossoms
Within the garden premises of Heian Jingu Shrine, visitors can enjoy the striking contrast of the vermilion architecture, and show-stopping shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees) reflected on the pond. These trees are also illuminated at night, making it a spot you'll want to visit once in the daytime and another at sundown.
The great Japanese author Junichiro Tanizaki, who wrote from the Meiji Era to Showa Era and loved these weeping cherry trees. They are said to resemble great pink clouds, making it a whimsical and much-loved sight by locals and visitors from Japan and overseas. These seasonal flowers also bloom in late spring. Every year, there is a festival in April that travelers in the Okazaki area should not miss!
The Shobikan (Guest House) and Taiheikaku Bridge are two great spots to view cherry blossoms around the pond in Heian Shrine’s precincts. Seeing the ancient architecture against a sea of pink is incredible. Since this is a popular spot, we recommend visiting early in the morning or before the shrine garden closes at night to avoid crowds. The Shobikan and Taiheikaku Bridge were initially built for the Kyoto Grand Exposition held at the Kyoto Imperial Palace. However, both were reconstructed at their current locations in 1913.
Cherry Trees Are Everywhere in Okazaki
The Keage Incline, a transport route built during the Meiji Era, is full of superb Somei-Yoshino cherry trees. This railway was built to carry ships but has been out of operation since World War II. The contrast between the ruins and cherry trees speaks to the transience of the physical world.
Nanzenji Temple is another well-known sakura spot in Kyoto. You can enjoy the Japanese pastime of appreciating cherry blossoms against the backdrop of traditional Buddhist architecture.
If you like animals, a trip to the Kyoto City Zoo is a great option for those traveling with children. This zoo has garnered attention for its cherry blossoms since opening 110 years ago. The view from the Ferris wheel is also marvelous.
Jikkokubune: Hop Onboard the Lake Biwa Canal Cruise
If you have enough time in your schedule, why not take a cruise along the Biwa Canal and admire seasonal blooms aboard a cruise? These cherry blossoms reflected in the water will surely make a long-lasting impression!
The cherry blossoms are illuminated from late March to the second week of April. Additionally, a memorable river cruise operates during this period. Ticket reservations and inquiries are available online via the Jikkokubune Boat Ride website, which is included at the bottom of this article.
Don’t miss out on this seasonal event if you're visiting Kyoto during the spring!
Information
Jikkokubune Sakura Cruise
Please refer to their website for the most up-to-date information on scheduling and prices.
Website: Jikkokubune
Written by
The MATCHA editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
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