Kitakami Tenshochi: The Undisputed King of Cherry Blossoms in Tohoku

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If you could only visit one cherry blossom spot in Tohoku,Kitakami Tenshochi would be the ultimate choice—where the magic of sakura season reaches its peak! The 2-kilometer sakura tunnel along the Kitakami River is a breathtaking spectacle, with around 10,000 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees forming an unbroken canopy of pink blossoms, earning its place among Japan’s "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots." By day, walking beneath this floral arch feels like stepping into a painting; by night (6:00 PM–9:00 PM), the illuminated yozakura transforms the river into a dreamscape, with reflections of glowing blossoms dancing on the water’s surface.

The experience goes beyond just viewing: Glide along the river on a traditional yakata-bune boat for a unique perspective beneath the blossoms, or explore the food stalls serving regional delights like Wanko Soba and crispy Nanbu Senbei—don’t miss the sakura-themed sweets! If you’re lucky, you might catch lively Shishi-odori (deer dance) performances or folk music, adding a touch of Tohoku’s vibrant culture.

Pro tips for photographers:Head to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the "sakura river," or stroll the riverside path to capture petals fluttering in the breeze. Access is a breeze from Tokyo—just 2.5 hours via Shinkansen to Kitakami Station, then a 10-minute shuttle bus to this floral paradise. Kitakami Tenshochi isn’t just a destination; it’s the ultimate celebration of spring in Tohoku!

Post by Maryyngyng1 | May 5, 2025