10 Amazing Cherry Blossom Spots in Okayama: Famous Spots, Hidden Gems, and Best Time to See Them [2025 Edition]

• Table of contents
• 1. Daigo Cherry Blossoms
• 2. Gaisen Sakura Street
• 3. Rashomon Sakura Park
• 4. Kuze Tunnel Cherry Blossoms
• 5. Tsuyama Castle (Kakuzan Park)
• 6. Ibara Dam
• 7. Mt. Ojigatake
• 8. Old Shizutani School
• 9. Okayama City Handa Botanical Garden
• 10. Asahikawa Sakura
• summary
• Top 10 spectacular cherry blossom viewing spots in Okayama introduced in this article

*The flowering situation may change depending on the climate and weather, so we recommend checking the latest information before visiting.

*The content, duration and times of events and illuminations may vary from year to year.

1. Daigo Cherry Blossoms

Located in Maniwa City, Daigo Sakura is a giant Azumahiganzakura tree estimated to be approximately 700 years old (local sources say it's 1,000 years old), and is designated a natural monument of Okayama Prefecture. At approximately 18 meters tall, with a trunk circumference of 9.2 meters and branches that stretch out to 20 meters, its overwhelming presence captivates visitors. Legend has it that Emperor Godaigo praised the tree, hence the name "Daigo Sakura." Many people visit during the flowering season to enjoy its beauty. The contrast between the surrounding canola flower fields and the cherry blossoms creates a beautiful landscape.

During the blooming season, the cherry blossoms are lit up from sunset until 9:00 PM, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic night view. Access is convenient by car, and there is a parking lot, but it is expected to be crowded during the blooming season, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.

Best time to see: early to mid-April

•Scale: 1 piece

•Variety: Azumahiganzakura

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: Available (during the blooming period, from sunset to 9:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: Available (local processed goods and specialty products will be sold during the flowering period)

Toilet: Yes

Address: 2277 Bessho , Maniwa City , Okayama Prefecture

• Parking: Parking Lot 1 (35 spaces), Parking Lot 2 (70 spaces), Parking Lot 3 (30 spaces) *Paid parking

Nearby tourist spots: Roadside Station Daigo-no-Sato, Kanba Falls

Daigo cherry blossoms

719-3157 2277 Bessho , Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture

This tree is about 1000 years old. It is a single cherry tree that stands majestically in the mountain village. It is said to be the largest tree in Okayama Prefecture and has been selected as one of Japan's 100 most famous trees. It is said to have been praised by Emperor Go-Daigo, who was exiled to Oki Island by the shogunate at the end of the Kamakura period. Cherry blossom season: Late March to early April

2. Gaisen Sakura Street

Gaisen Sakura Street , located in Shinjo Village , is a place that retains the atmosphere of a post town on the old Izumo Kaido road. In 1906, cherry trees were planted on both sides of the road to commemorate the victory in the Russo-Japanese War, and today 133 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees are lined every 5.5 meters, forming a magnificent cherry blossom tunnel. Canals run along both sides of the street, and the murmuring of the streams has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Soundscapes and Japan's 100 Best Fragrant Landscapes. The Gaisen Sakura Festival is held every year from early to mid-April, featuring a variety of events, including stalls set up by local residents and illuminations. This atmospheric spot allows you to enjoy the combination of the historic townscape and cherry blossoms.

The nearby "Roadside Station Gaisen Sakura Shinjo" sells fresh vegetables, "Hime no Mochi" and related products (daifuku, noodles, rice crackers, craft beer, etc.), processed foods and local specialties such as sarunashi. At the attached restaurant, you can enjoy ramen and udon noodles made with Hime no Mochi noodles, pasta, zoni (rice cake soup), and seasonal curry with an exquisite combination of ingredients and spices.

[Gaisen Cherry Blossom Festival 2025]

April 5, 2025 (Sat) - April 13, 2025 (Sun)

Best time to see: early to mid-April

•Scale: 133 books

•Variety: Somei Yoshino

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: Available (during the Gaisen Cherry Blossom Festival, once in full bloom: sunset to 9:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: Available (During the Gaisen Cherry Blossom Festival: 10:00-15:00)

Toilet: Yes

Address: Okayama Prefecture, Maniwa Village, Shinjo District, Murakami Prefecture

Parking: Opposite the roadside station along National Route 181, riverside parking lot/45 standard-sized cars, 5 large vehicles

• Nearby tourist attractions: Wakihonjin Kishiro Residence, Shinjo-juku Sugai Residence

Gaisen Sakura Street

717-0201 Kamimachi, Shinjo Village, Maniwa District, Okayama Prefectur...

The "Gaisen Sakura" cherry blossom avenue in this post town is rare nationwide, with 137 cherry trees planted in 1906 to commemorate the victory in the Russo-Japanese War. Currently, there are 133 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, and the magnificent tunnel of cherry trees blooming every 5.5 meters is a representative spring scene in Shinjo Village. On both sides of the street, there are waterways that flow gently, and the gentle sound of the water has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Soundscapes of Japan" and "Top 100 Fragrant Landscapes of Japan." Cherry blossom season: mid- to late April

3. Rashomon Sakura Park

Rashomon Sakura Park in Niimi City is located very close to the nationally designated natural monument, Rashomon Gate, and is home to approximately 700 cherry trees of 10 different varieties. Thanks to the large number of varieties, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms for a long period of time, from late March to late April. The approximately 200-meter tunnel created by the Kanzan cherry blossoms is particularly impressive and captivates visitors. Every year, the park is lit up from the end of March to the end of April, allowing visitors to enjoy the magical night view of the cherry blossoms from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The park also hosts the Rashomon Sakura Festival, featuring a variety of events, including gourmet food stalls, local product sales, and guided tours. Access is convenient by car, approximately 30 minutes from Niimi Interchange on the Chugoku Expressway.

The charm of this park is that you can enjoy cherry blossoms from late March to the end of April, as about 10 varieties of cherry blossoms bloom in succession, from early to late blooming.

Best time to see: late March to late April

•Scale: Approximately 700 pieces

• Varieties: Approximately 11 varieties, including Somei Yoshino, Kanzan, and weeping cherry

Night cherry blossom illuminations: Available (end of March to end of April, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: Available (Saturdays and Sundays during the Rashomon Sakura Festival)

Toilet: Yes

Address: 4484-1 Kusama, Niimi City , Okayama Prefecture

Parking: Approximately 20 spaces

Nearby tourist attractions: Rashomon, Niimi Chiya Onsen, Ikura-do Cave

Rashomon

719-2732 4484-1 Kusama, Niimi City, Okayama Prefecture

"Rashomon" is an arch-shaped natural bridge with a height of about 40 meters that was created by repeated erosion and uplift of an underground limestone cave, and its scale is overwhelming! It has been designated as a national natural monument, and various rare plants and animals grow naturally in the surrounding area. In addition, at Sakura Park next to the Rashomon parking lot, approximately 700 cherry trees of 10 different types bloom in spring.

4. Kuze Tunnel Cherry Blossoms

Located along the Asahikawa in Maniwa City , the Kuze Tunnel Cherry Blossoms is a must-see, a cherry blossom tunnel stretching for about 1 km. Approximately 180 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees are planted here, and when in full bloom, an arch of cherry blossoms covers the road, creating a tunnel-like landscape. At night, lanterns are lit, allowing you to enjoy the fantastical night cherry blossoms. It is easily accessible, about a 10-minute walk from JR Kuze Station.

The view of the rows of cherry blossom trees from the riverbed near Kuze Bridge is popular. The beauty of the cherry blossoms reflected on the river surface and the lanterns at night is breathtaking.

Best time to see: late March to mid-April

•Scale: Approximately 180 pieces

•Variety: Somei Yoshino

Night cherry blossom illumination: Available (lanterns lit from sunset to around 10:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: To be updated with the latest information on the Tenryo Kuse Sakura Festival (Saturday, March 22nd - Sunday, April 13th, 2025)

Toilet: Yes

Address: Near So, Maniwa City , Okayama Prefecture

Parking: Riverside, City Hall (approximately 200 spaces) *Using public transportation or bicycles is recommended

• Nearby tourist spots: Katsuyama Historical Preservation District, Yubara Onsen

Kuze tunnel cherry blossoms

719-3204 Near So, Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture

Approximately 180 Yoshino cherry trees are planted along a 1km stretch of Asahikawa embankment. It was named ``Tunnel Cherry Blossoms'' because the cherry blossoms cover the road and form a tunnel. At night, lanterns are lit and you can enjoy the cherry blossoms at night.

5. Tsuyama Castle (Kakuzan Park)

Tsuyama is a historic castle built by Mori Tadamasa in 1616, and has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Great Castles and one of Japan's 100 Sakura Spots. In spring, approximately 1,000 cherry trees bloom, creating a beautiful landscape with the contrast between the Ishigaki and the cherry blossoms. In particular, when the castle is lit up at night, it creates a mystical atmosphere, attracting many tourists. The castle also offers a panoramic view of Tsuyama City, making it a spot where you can enjoy both history and nature at the same time.

Best time to see: late March to early April

•Scale: Approximately 1,000 pieces

•Varieties: Somei Yoshino, etc.

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: Available (during the Tsuyama Sakura Festival, from sunset to 10:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: Available (During the Tsuyama Sakura Festival, food stalls offering local specialties and light meals will be set up in the park.)

Toilet: Yes

Address: 135 Sange , Tsuyama City , Okayama Prefecture

• Admission fee: Adults (high school students and above) 310 yen, free for junior high school students and below

Parking: Tsuyama Tourist Center Parking Lot (30 standard-sized cars, 6 large vehicles) *Temporary parking lots will be available during the event. Public transportation is recommended.

• Nearby tourist spots: Jyoto Traditional Buildings Preservation District, Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum

Tsuyama Castle (Kakuzan Park)

135 Yamashita, Tsuyama City, Okayama Prefecture 708-0022

The symbol of Tsuyama City, which has been selected as one of Japan's ``100 Famous Castles'' and ``Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.'' The castle was built in 1616 by Tadamasa Mori, the younger brother of Ranmaru Mori, who was killed in the Honnoji Incident. All of the buildings were demolished due to the Meiji Castle Abandonment Order, but Bicchu Yagura was restored in 2005 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the castle's construction. It has become a new popular spot along with the stone wall that boasts a height of over 10 meters. It is also known as one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in the prefecture, and the scenery with about 1,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom is spectacular. Cherry blossom season: Early April to mid-April (approximately 1,000 trees) Wisteria season: Late April to early May Azaleas season: Late April to early May Hydrangea season: Mid-June to late June Autumn leaves season: Late October to mid-November

6. Ibara Dam

Ibara Bank, located along the Oda River that flows through Ibara City , is characterized by a row of cherry blossom trees that stretches for about 2 km. Approximately 800 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees are planted here, and in the spring a magnificent tunnel of cherry blossoms appears. The Ibara Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year, and during this period the area is lit up with lanterns, attracting many people day and night. It is a spot where families and couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll while viewing the cherry blossoms.

Best time to see: late March to early April

•Scale: Approximately 800 pieces

•Variety: Somei Yoshino

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: Available (during the Ibara Cherry Blossom Festival, 18:30-22:00)

Food stalls and restaurants: Available (during the Ibara Cherry Blossom Festival)

Toilet: Yes

Address: Near 3616 Ibara-cho, Ibara City, Okayama Prefecture Prefecture

Parking: Temporary parking (approximately 200 spaces)

• Nearby tourist attractions: Aihara Park, Ibara City Tanaka Museum of Art

Ibara Tsutsumi

Ibara-cho, Ibara City, Okayama Prefecture 715-0019

It is famous for the 2km long row of cherry blossom trees along the Odagawa embankment. In spring, it is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and a place of relaxation for citizens. Cherry blossom season: Late March to early April

7. Mt. Ojigatake

Mt. Ojigatake is known as a scenic spot offering a panoramic view of the Seto Naikai . In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful contrast between the blue sea and the pink flowers. Huge rocks are also scattered throughout the area, creating a unique landscape. Hiking trails are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy nature walks and cherry blossom viewing at the same time.

Best time to see: late March to early April

•Scale: Approximately 1,000 pieces

•Variety: Somei Yoshino

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: None

• Restaurants: We recommend the permanent Marugo Deli Ojigatake belk located inside the Mt. Ojigatake Rest House in Kurashiki City .

Toilet: Yes

Address: 4 Shibukawa , Tamano City , Okayama Prefecture

Parking: Available (several spaces) *As congestion is expected, we recommend using public transportation or carpooling.

• Nearby tourist spots: Shibukawa Coast, Shibukawa Zoo

Ojigatake

4-chome Shibukawa, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture 706-0028

Mount Ojigatake, which straddles Tamano City and Kurashiki City, is a viewing spot where you can see the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea and the majestic Seto Ohashi Bridge at the same time. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mt. Shikoku. There are many strangely shaped rocks with fun names such as ``Ojisan Rock'', ``Smile Rock'', and ``Hitsuji Rock'', and looking for them is part of the fun. You will be amazed by the scenery made up of huge rocks and strangely shaped rocks. There is also a promenade, and it is a popular hiking course where cherry blossoms and azaleas are in full bloom in the spring. It is also famous as a place where you can enjoy paragliding and bouldering.

8. Old Shizutani School

The Old Shizutani School was founded in 1670 and is the world's oldest public school for commoners. It has been designated a national special historic site. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the school building, creating a beautiful combination of historical architecture and cherry blossoms. The large weeping cherry tree in front of the auditorium is particularly impressive. This is a spot where you can relax and enjoy the history and nature in a quiet environment.

Best time to see: late March to early April

•Size: Approximately 45 Somei-Yoshino trees, 20 around the museum

•Varieties: Somei Yoshino, Yaezakura

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: None

• Restaurant: Shizutani Handmade Soba Tsubakian

Toilet: Yes

Address: 784 Shizutani , Bizen City , Okayama Prefecture

Parking: Parking Lot 1 (approx. 200 cars), Parking Lot 2 (approx. 300 cars)

• Nearby tourist attractions: Bizen Pottery Traditional Industry Hall, Imbe District

Former Shizutani School

705-0036 784 Shizutani , Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture

In 1670, Ikeda Mitsumasa, the feudal lord of Okayama, founded Japan's first "public school for the common people." Built deep in a valley, the school was named Shizutani School. Many capable leaders who would go on to shape Japan's history came from here. The stately lecture hall with its gabled roof is worthy of being called the "Hall of Learning." It has been designated a national treasure. The area is dotted with facilities designated as important cultural properties by the nation, including the shrine where a statue of Confucius, the father of Confucianism, is enshrined. In 2015, it was recognized as the first Japan Heritage Site along with the "Special Historic Site of the Former Kodokan (Ibaraki Prefecture)," "Historic Site of the Ashikaga School (Tochigi Prefecture)," and "Historic Site of Kan'i-en (Oita Prefecture)" as "Educational Heritage Sites of Early Modern Japan - The Source of the Spirit of Learning and Etiquette."

9. Okayama City Handa Botanical Garden

Handa Botanical Garden, located adjacent to Okayama city, is home to approximately 150,000 plants of approximately 3,200 species planted across a vast area of ​​approximately 110,000 square meters. In spring, approximately 1,000 cherry trees bloom, adorning the garden. You can enjoy a wide variety of cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino, weeping cherry, and Oshima cherry, and the ancient trees, some over 100 years old, are particularly impressive. One of the garden's attractions is being able to enjoy the view of Okayama city alongside the cherry blossoms while strolling along the garden's promenade. In addition, a Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year to coincide with the peak cherry blossom viewing season, with a variety of events taking place, including nighttime illuminations and food truck stalls. It is a recommended spot for families and couples.

Best time to see: late March to early April

•Scale: Approximately 1,000 pieces

•Varieties: Approximately 45 varieties, including Somei Yoshino, weeping cherry, and Oshima cherry

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: Available (during the Cherry Blossom Festival, from sunset to 9:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: Available (food trucks will be set up during the Cherry Blossom Festival)

Toilet: Yes

Address: 3-1 Okayama Prefecture, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Kita Ward

Admission fee: Adults (high school students and above) 310 yen, children (elementary and junior high school students) 125 yen, free for those 65 years of age or older with official proof of age.

•Parking: 93 spaces *Paid

• Nearby tourist attractions: Okayama Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle

Okayama City Handayama Botanical Garden

3-1 Hokaiin, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama 700-0004

It is a comprehensive botanical garden that manages and grows approximately 3,200 species and 150,000 plants. The entrance has a magnificent view that looks like an open-air opera theater. It is located on a hilly area with an altitude of 10m to 85m, and the view of Okayama from the top is very beautiful. This place is less crowded than the famous cherry blossom viewing spots, so it is highly recommended for people who want to escape from the hustle and bustle, or for families. You will be amazed by the harmony of cherry blossoms, sky, and green colors. Enjoy a leisurely tour of Handayama Botanical Garden, which is approximately the size of 11 Tokyo Domes.

10. Asahikawa Sakura

Asahikawa Sakura , which runs along the Asahikawa that flows through the center of Okayama City , is a popular place for local residents to relax. Approximately 250 Somei Yoshino cherry trees are planted along a stretch of about 1 km, and in spring, the rows of cherry blossom trees that adorn the riverside create a beautiful landscape. There is a promenade, so you can enjoy the cherry blossoms while strolling or jogging. The cherry blossoms are also lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere for viewing them at night. It is easily accessible from the city center, making it an easy spot to visit.

Best time to see: late March to early April

•Scale: Approximately 250 pieces

•Variety: Somei Yoshino

Night cherry blossoms and illuminations: Available (during the Okayama Sakura Carnival, from sunset to 9:00 PM)

Food stalls and restaurants: None

Toilet: Yes

Address: Near Okayama Prefecture , Kita-ku, Okayama City, Asahi Kita Ward

Parking: No dedicated parking (public transportation recommended)

• Nearby tourist attractions: Okayama Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle

Asahi River Sakura Road

703-8257 East Bank of Asahikawa, Naka Ward, Okayama City, Okayama Pref...

This is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in the city, where cherry blossoms bloom for about 1km on the east bank of the Asahi River, which runs through Okayama City. The ``Okayama Sakura Carnival'' is held during the cherry blossom season. At night, the rows of cherry blossom trees are illuminated, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic view of the cherry blossoms at night. Cherry blossom season: Late March to early April

summary

Okayama Prefecture is home to a variety of cherry blossom viewing spots, including cherry blossoms at historic castle ruins, rows of cherry blossom trees lining roads, and magnificent single cherry trees. Tsuyama Castle (Kakuzan Park), Daigozakura, and Gaisen Sakura Street are particularly popular with tourists from outside the prefecture for their beauty. Other attractive spots loved by locals include Ibara Bank and the Kuze Tunnel cherry blossoms.

In Okayama City, Asahikawa Sakura and Handa Botanical Garden are recommended spots for casual cherry blossom viewing. There are also many places where you can enjoy the cherry blossoms at night, and in spots where they are lit up, you can experience a fantastic atmosphere that is different from the daytime.

Be sure to visit some of Okayama's most scenic cherry blossom spots in preparation for the 2025 cherry blossom season! Each spot offers a different view and atmosphere, so find your favorite cherry blossom spot and enjoy the arrival of spring.

Cherry Blossom Spots in Okayama Prefecture

Top 10 spectacular cherry blossom viewing spots in Okayama introduced in this article

1. Daigozakura – A single cherry tree over 1,000 years old, the most impressive in Okayama

2. Gaisen Sakura Street – A row of cherry blossom trees full of history that decorates the old post town

3. Rashomon Sakura Park – A famous cherry blossom spot to enjoy alongside the natural scenery of Rashomon

4. Kuze Tunnel Cherry Blossoms – When in full bloom, a fantastical cherry blossom arch appears

5. Tsuyama Castle (Kakuzan Park) – One of Okayama blossom viewing spots, selected as one of Japan's top 100 Sakura viewing spots

6. Ibara Dam – A breathtaking 2km-long cherry blossom tunnel

7. Mt. Ojigatake – A spectacular spot overlooking the Seto Naikai

8. Old Shizutani School – A beautiful combination of historic buildings and cherry blossoms

9. Okayama City Handa Botanical Garden – An urban cherry blossom spot with around 3,000 types of plants

10. Asahikawa Sakura– A beautiful downtown spot lined with cherry blossom trees along the Asahikawa

Each spot has its own charm and offers spectacular views that color Okayama in spring. In particular, spots where you can enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms at night (Tsuyama Castle, Ibara Bank, Daigo Sakura, Rashomon Sakura Park, etc.) offer a fantastical view that is different from the daytime.

With the cherry blossom season approaching in 2025, be sure to use this article as a reference and visit some of Okayama's cherry blossom spots!

Featured Locations (MAP) | Top 10 Scenic Cherry Blossom Spots in Okayama