[2025 Spring Special] Spring Gifts in Kansai and Wakayama: 7 Recommended Cherry Blossom Spots

Cherry Blossoms Reflect the Heart of Japan

Cherry blossoms have a deep spiritual connection with the Japanese people that has lasted for over a thousand years. The culture of "hanami" or "flower viewing", which has been enjoyed since the Heian period, spread among the common people during the Edo period, and has now become a national event that heralds the arrival of spring.

As one of Japan's representative flowers, cherry blossoms continue to influence various aspects of Japanese culture, including literature and art. Their fleeting beauty reflects the Japanese appreciation for the transience and preciousness of life.

Wakayama's Breathtaking Spring Scenery

The people from Wakayama eagerly await for the cherry blossom season. The stunning landscapes created by ancient castles, rivers, and mountains adorned with cherry blossoms captivates visitors. Thanks to the warm climate of the Kii-Peninsula, cherry blossoms bloom one after another from late March to mid-April each year.

A journey through Wakayama's most famous cherry blossom spots, each showcasing a unique charm, will create unforgettable spring memories. The prefecture is home to a variety of scenic cherry blossom locations, from centuries-old trees, to magnificent rows of cherry blossoms. In this article, we introduce carefully selected cherry-blossom spots in Wakayama.

• Table of Contents
• 1. [Wakayama Castle] Floating in a Sea of Petals
• 2. Kimiidera Temple: Heralding Spring in the Kinki Region
• 3. [Heisogen] A Carpet of Cherry Blossoms Spread Across the Mountains
• 4. [Shichikawa Dam] Three Thousand Cherry Blossoms Reflected on the Water
• 5. [Aridagawa Town] Beautiful Cherry Blossom Rows for a Spring Drive
• 6. [Shingu/Tanabe Castle Ruins] A Kumano Castle Where History and Sakura co-exist
• 7. [Oyunohara] World-Heritage Cherry Blossoms blooming in the Sacred Land of the Gods
• Conclusion

1. [Wakayama Castle] Floating in a Sea of Petals

[Wakayama Castle] © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

In Spring, Wakayama Castle basks in the sunlight, gently embraced by cherry blossoms. The contrast between the white-walled keep and the soft pink petals created a breathtaking view that lingers in visitors' hearts. The cherry branches, stretching powerfully from the historic stone walls, convey timeless beauty.

Within the castle grounds, people gather to celebrate spring with festive picnics. The castle, seen through cherry trees, exudes a mystical charm. During the day, the vibrant colors delight the eyes, while at night, the illuminated cherry blossoms create a magical atmosphere. Street vendors add to the lively ambience, making it a cherished spot for many, each year. Wakayama Castle's cherry blossoms offer a special place to appreciate the traditional beauty of Japan.

[Latest Information for 2025]
Illumination: 6pm to 11pm (March 20th to April 13th)
Best time to see: Late March to early April
Address: Wakayama City Ichibancho 3

2. Kimiidera Temple: Heralding Spring in the Kinki Region

[Important Cultural Property - Tahoto Pagoda] © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Kimiidera Temple, with approximately 400 Sakura Trees within its area, is renowned in Kansai as a famous cherry blossom spot. Particularly noteworthy, is the Somei Yoshino Sakura Tree standing in front of the main hall, designated as a specimen tree by the Wakayama Regional Meteorological Observatory, earning the temple the reputation of "The Temple that Heralds Spring in the Kinki Region".

Although there are 231 Stone Steps leading to the Main Hall, a cable car and elevator are also installed, allowing easy access for those with mobility issues. At the top of the stone steps is the "Sky Café", where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views while savoring the famous amazake and coffee brewed with one of Kimiidera's three famous waters, Yangyousi (water for health and longevity), sheltered from the cold, heat, and inclement weather.

[Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Route - Sand Stepping] © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Additionally, the temple grounds feature the designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan, including the tower gate, bell tower, and the multi-storied pagoda. These structures, each with over a century of history, create a harmonious landscape of ancient charm and the arrival of spring during the cherry blossom season.

Inside the Buddhist Temple, the Great Thousand-Handed Eleven-Faced Kannon statue is on display. Known as the largest wooden Buddha statue in Japan, standing over 11-meters tall. On the third-floor, visitors can view the statue from the front and enjoy a panoramic view of Wakaura. The combination of the blue sea stretching into the distance and the pink cherry blossoms scattered here and there is sure to captivate the hearts of those who see it.

[Latest information for 2025]
Illumination: from sunset to 10pm
Best time to see: Late March to early April
Address: 1201 Wakayama Prefecture, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture

For 2025 Bloom Information, please click here!

3. [Heisogen] A Carpet of Cherry Blossoms Spread Across the Mountains

[Heisogen] © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Heisogen is a nature-rich grassland located in the mountainous area of Wakayama Prefecture. In Spring, you can enjoy the spectacular cherry blossom scenery. The wild cherry blossoms blooming in the on the gentle hills contrast beautifully with the blue sky, captivating visitors. The sight of pink cherry blossoms spreading against the backdrop of surrounding mountains is breathtaking.

At night, the area is illuminated, creating an even more magical landscape after dusk. It's truly a cherry blossom symphony that lasts all day.

[Heisogen] © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

The walking paths are well-maintained, allowing you to leisurely stroll and enjoy the cherry blossoms up close. The best viewing period is usually from early to mid-April, and it is a hidden cherry blossom spot loved by locals. There are also simple playground equipment made of logs and ropes, making it a spot where families can enjoy a spring day together.

[Latest information for 2025 ]
Cherry Blossom Festival: March 25th (Tue) - April 6th (Sun), 8:30am - 5pm
Cherry Blossom Illumination at Night: Thursday, March 27th to Thursday, April 3rd, 5pm to 9pm (cancelled in case of rain)
Best time to see: Late March to early April
Address: 2054-1 Shirahama-cho, Shirahama Town, Wakayama Prefecture Prefecture

4. [Shichikawa Dam] Three Thousand Cherry Blossoms Reflected on the Water

[Nanakawa Dam] © Kozagawa Town

Shichikawa Dam, located in Kozagawa Town, is a scenic spot rich in nature and famous for its cherry blossoms. In Spring, about 3,000 Somei Yoshino Sakura Trees are planted along the dam lake, bloom in its full glory. The sight of sakura trees reflected on the lake surface is exceptionally beautiful, captivating people referring to it as an "upside-down cherry blossom". It is also a popular spot among photography enthusiasts.

The promenade along the dam stretches about 3-km, allowing you to enjoy the contrast between water and cherry blossoms from various angles. The view from the top of the dam embankment is also spectacular, with a panoramic view of cherry blossoms and the lake that takes visitors' breaths away.

[Nanakawa Dam] © Kozagawa Town

At night, the cherry blossoms are lit up by lanterns, creating a fantastical sight that is different from the daytime.

[Latest information for 2025 ]
Night cherry blossom illumination: 6pm to 9pm
Best time to see: Late March to early April
Address: Sada, Wakayama Prefecture-cho, Higashimuro Kozagawa Town Prefecture

5. [Aridagawa Town] Beautiful Cherry Blossom Rows for a Spring Drive

Aridagawa Town is located in the central part of Wakayama Prefecture, and is famous for its cherry blossom rows along the clear stream of the Arida River. There are several cherry blossom spots within the town.

Near Kanaya Myojyo Gorge Hot Spring

Along National Route 424, near Kanaya Myojyo Gorge Hot Spring, cherry blossom rows bloom along the river. You can enjoy cherry blossom viewing while on the day trip to the hot-spring.

[Near Kanaya Myoekyo Onsen] © Aridagawa Town

↓For more information on Kanaya Myoekyo Onsen, click here↓

Around Futagawa Dam Lake

Somei-Yoshino sakura trees bloom in full glory for about 4-km around Futagawa Dam Lake along National Route 480. Near Futagawa Dam is the Zao Bridge, and if you continue east, along National Route 480, you will reach Aragi Island and Shimizu Hot Spring. This is an excellent driving route to enjoy the spring scenery from the car window while touring the scenic spots of Aridagawa Town.

[Around Futagawa Dam Lake] © Aridagawa Town

The vivid red of the Zao bridge, and the delicate pink of the cherry blossoms create a  striking contrast, while harmonizing beautifully with the blue and green of the river flow and mountains haze, weaving a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.

[Zao Bridge] © Aridagawa Town

Aridagawa Railway Park

Aridagawa Railway Park preserves the history of the discontinued Arida Railway, where you can actually ride the old trains. It is perfect for railway enthusiasts, as well as families and friends, with a lawn area, playground equipment, and basketball goals. In Spring, you can enjoy nostalgic train rides and take commemorative photos under the cherry blossoms that color the park.

[Aridagawa Railway Park] © Aridagawa Town

The cherry blossoms in Aridagawa Town are usually in full bloom from late March to early April. In the mountainous areas, they may bloom a little later, so you can enjoy them at different times. It is also an ideal spring driving course, and local cherry blossom festivals are sometimes held during the cherry blossom season, so be sure to visit!

[Latest information for 2025 ]
Best Time to See: Late March to early April
Address: According to map information

6. [Shingu/Tanabe Castle Ruins] A Kumano Castle Where History and Sakura co-exist

The Shingu Castle Ruins (aka. Tanabe Castle Ruins) are located on a small hill called Tanabe Mountain, along the Kumano river in Shingu City, Wakayama Prefecture. This historic castle was built as a hilltop castle.

After the abolition of feudal domain system in 1871, the castle was demolished, but parts of the stone walls remain today.

Shingu/Tanju Castle Ruins © Shingu City Tourism Association

The castle ruins have been developed into "Tanabe Park", where numerous sakura trees have been planted. From the castle ruins, you can overlook the city of Shingu and the flow of the Kumano River. Especially during the cherry blossom season, the stone walls, cherry blossoms, and the cityscape blend beautifully together.

Shingu/Tanju Castle Ruins © Shingu City Tourism Association

It is also a popular stop when visiting the Kumano Kodo, part of the World Heritage "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii-Mountain Range" (a 15-minute walk from the Kumano Hayatama Taisha). It is a valuable place where you can feel the history and nature of Kumano.

During the cherry blossom season, it is a must-visit spot when exploring the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes.

[Latest information for 2025 ]
Best time to see: Late March to early April
Address: 7688-2, Tanjaku 3-chome, Shingu City , Wakayama Prefecture

7. [Oyunohara] World-Heritage Cherry Blossoms blooming in the Sacred Land of the Gods

Oyunohara, where Japan's largest Torii gates stands, is a sacred place located at a key point of the Kumano Kodo and is the former site of Kumano Hongu Taisha, registered as a World Heritage Site. In Spring, the contrast between the large torii gate and the cherry blossoms is spectacular, attracting many photography enthusiasts.

Oyunohara © Kumano Motomiya Shrine

It is about 500-meters from the Kumano Hongu Taisha. Across the road, you can see the large Torii gate (About 34-meters high, and 42-meters wide), with the lush green forest of Oyunohara spreading behind it.

Oyunohara, which once received the prayers of many people, has been the center of Kumano pilgrimage since the Heian period and embodies the ancient Japanese spirit of nature worship. The cherry blossoms blooming in this serene environment surrounded by Kumano's rich nature offer special experiences that purifies the soul. Depending on the weather, you can enjoy a natural spectacle of the Milky Way and cherry blossoms at night.

Oyunohara © Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation

Kumano Motomiya Shrine and Heian period costumes © Kumano Motomiya Shrine

It is about a 10-minute walk from the Kumano Hongu Taisha, so be sure to visit both places!

[Latest information for 2025 ]
Best time to see: Late March to early April
Address: Motomiya, Motomiya Motomiya Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture Motomiya

Conclusion

In spring, Wakayama offers a landscape where historical charm and natural beauty blend, with cherry blossoms blooming gracefully. The blooming period may vary depending on the weather, so please check the latest information before you go out. Enjoy the charm of Wakayama's cherry blossoms to the fullest with the arrival of an exciting spring.