Japan's spring offers a unique experience where hot springs and cherry blossoms come together to create unforgettable memories. Traveling to hot spring towns to enjoy cherry blossoms is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the essence of Japanese culture. Let’s explore some famous cherry blossom spots in various hot spring towns and the special experiences they offer.
Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Hot Spring Towns
Yumura Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)
The Harukigawa River in Yumura Onsen is lined with a stunning 2km corridor of cherry blossoms 🌸. Noteworthy sites include:
- Taiunji Temple's Weeping Cherry Tree: Approximately 250 years old, this tree is one of the largest in Western Japan.
- Shofukuji Temple Cherry Trees: This spot features a rare species known for its abundant petals and has been designated a natural monument in Shin-Onsencho.
Awara Onsen (Fukui Prefecture)
Awara Onsen is home to a variety of cherry blossom spots to enjoy:
- Arata Saka: Known as the holy site of the popular manga 'Chihayafuru', this area boasts beautiful cherry blossoms and is lit up with lanterns during the season, providing a magical experience.
- Kasuga Shrine: Located on a hill overlooking Awara Onsen, visitors can enjoy unique views of the cherry blossoms from above.
Special Cherry Blossom Experiences
Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing
Many hot spring towns offer a spectacular nighttime cherry blossom experience through luminous light-ups. At Yumura Onsen's Harukigawa River, you can enjoy this romantic atmosphere after sunset.
Harmony of Hot Springs and Cherry Blossoms
One of the highlights of Japanese travel is soaking in an outdoor bath while admiring cherry blossoms. For instance, at Kai Tamatsukuri in Shimane Prefecture, the large outdoor hot spring reveals a picturesque landscape as the cherry trees bloom into spring.
Rickshaw Cherry Blossom Experience
At Kai Tamatsukuri, they operate a rickshaw service limited to just two teams per day for nighttime cherry blossom viewing. For an hour, you can appreciate the 400 cherry trees lining the hot spring streets, all the while enjoying the warm 'Tamatsukuri Onsen Tanpo' to ward off the chilly spring nights.
Seasonal Special Experiences
Cherry Blossom-Themed Cuisine
Many hot spring ryokans serve special dishes that celebrate the cherry blossom season. At Kai Tamatsukuri, you can indulge in cherry blossom rice cakes, cherry blossom tea, and a 'Hanami Temari Sushi Box'.
Cherry Blossom Festivals
Various cherry blossom festivals take place in hot spring towns. For example, the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival provides a unique experience of enjoying both the hot springs and cherry blossoms simultaneously.
A cherry blossom journey in Japan's hot spring towns blends relaxing hot springs with the natural beauty of blooming cherry blossoms. Experience the spring of Japan fully by exploring the distinctive cherry blossom sites, coupled with a variety of enriching activities. Embrace the essence of spring by soaking in the culture and beauty that these enchanting towns offer!
