Viewing cherry blossoms in full bloom is a must-do in Japan’s spring.
Here are the top sakura spots and hidden gems in the Akita Shirakami region—find your favorite!
Spring in Japan wouldn’t be complete without cherry blossom viewing!
During this season, many shops offer special hanami-themed bentos and sweets. Enjoying a colorful bento under fully bloomed sakura trees is truly one of life’s greatest pleasures!
Hidden Cherry Blossom Gems in the Akita Shirakami Region
🌸 Hidden Sakura Spot ①: GoshonoDai Park🌸
「Trains & Cherry Blossoms」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Mid to Late April
Perched on a hill, GoshonoDai Park offers breathtaking views of cherry blossoms against the backdrop of the Sea of Japan. The scenery is especially stunning at sunset.
A favorite among photographers, this spot is famous for capturing sakura alongside the passing Resort Shirakami train on the Gono Line.
Easily accessible from JR Akita-Shirakami Station, the park is also near Hachimori Isaribi Onsen Hatahata Kan, Akita Shirakami Experience Center, and Gosho-no-Dai Campground.
📍Those Who Are Enthusiasts of Train Travel
📍Those Who Enjoy Traveling Without a Car
📍Those Who Love Vast Cherry Blossom Views
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
You can shop for local side dishes alongside residents at Buriko, the fresh market next to「Hatahata Kan」.
For a taste of local specialties, try the unique Aka Sushi or Sakana Sushi.
Nearby, 「Kanoura Observatory」offers takeout treats perfect for a scenic snack.
For a special hanami experience, we highly recommend a BBQ at 「GoshonoDai Campground」 during cherry blossom season! Bring your own ingredients—grill rentals are available on-site.
Since you're in a fishing town, don’t miss the weekend-only 「Hachimori Kankoichi Market」 for the freshest local catch!
🌸 Hidden Sakura Spot ②: Sakura Niwa at Noshiro City Hall🌸
「Insta-Worthy Scenic Spots」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Mid to Late April
Whether you're relaxing on a bench at the city office or gazing from the first-floor parking lot, you'll find stunning cherry blossom views from every angle.
The weeping sakura on the terrace is a must-see, creating a breathtaking scene.
This up-and-coming hanami spot also features nighttime illuminations, adding a magical touch.
Once a former school, the location offers eye-level cherry blossoms, making it easy to capture a full wall of pink beauty!
📍Those Looking for Instagram-Worthy Shots
📍Those Seeking an In-Depth Trip in Noshiro
📍Those Who Want to Capture Cherry Blossoms Up Close
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
There are many restaurants nearby, so after enjoying the cherry blossoms, you can pick a meal that suits your taste.
We especially recommend the meal from 「Iki」,「Dining Kimon」, and 「Takaru MURAN」
In past years, festival stalls have also been a highlight.
For a true hanami experience, stop by 「Echigoya」 for traditional hanami dango (sweet rice dumplings).
A short walk away, you'll find AEON, a large supermarket for added convenience.
It's also close to the historic 「Former Ryotei Kaneyu」, a must-visit for those interested in traditional Japanese architecture and local history.
🌸Hidden Sakura Spot ③: Noshiro Park🌸
「Breathtaking Views of Shirakami Sanchi」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Mid to Late April
Noshiro Park, offering panoramic views of the Shirakami Mountains, is home to about 400 cherry trees, mainly Yoshino sakura.
During cherry blossom season, families flock to the park to enjoy the scenery. The park also features playgrounds like swings, perfect for kids to have fun.
After the sakura, the azaleas bloom beautifully, adding to the charm.
Stroll along the park’s walking paths and enjoy a relaxing photo session.
📍Those Who Love Strolling in Cherry Blossom Parks
📍Those Seeking a Deeper Experience in Noshiro
📍Those Wanting Cherry Blossoms Near the City
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
Nearby, you'll find 「Akasaka Jiro」, and 「Sake & Dining GURUMAN」, along with the large supermarket AEON, making it perfect for a meal before enjoying the cherry blossoms.
We highly recommend dining at 「Shofuan」, where you can enjoy lunch in a private room while taking in the stunning views of the Shirakami Sanchi (reservation required).
Additionally, just a short distance away is the 「Sakura no Niwa at Noshiro City Hall」, along with other nearby attractions like the 「Noshiro Basketball Museum」 and 「Kaneyu」,all worth visiting together.
🌸Hidden Sakura Spot ④: Sosaburonuma Park🌸
「Hot Springs and Cherry Blossoms」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Late April to early May
Sosaburonuma Park, located at the entrance of Moritake Onsen Village, is a spacious park surrounded by lush greenery. It features playgrounds for kids, tennis courts, and large open lawns.
From late April to early May, the area around the marsh is covered with Somei Yoshino sakura, making it a favorite spot for locals to enjoy the blossoms and relax.
📍Those Who Enjoy Japanese Hot Springs
📍Those Who Are Enthusiasts of Road Trips
📍Those Exploring Mitane Town
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
Nearby, 「Moritake Onsen Village」 offers relaxing hot springs and foot baths. You can also enjoy delicious local sushi at 「Nanshuya」 and 「Fukudaya」, or try some tasty teppanyaki at 「TONCHAN」.
If you're willing to venture a bit farther, the wood-fired pizzas at 「PIENO DI SOLE」 are absolutely amazing.
Take advantage of the takeout options provided by the restaurants to enhance your cherry blossom experience! During the Sakura Festival, there will also be food trucks to enjoy!
🌸Hidden Sakura Spot ⑤: Kimimachizaka Park🌸
「 The Town of Love Letters」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Late April to early May
Legend has it that in 1881, Emperor Meiji visited the area and received a letter from the Empress that read "I am waiting for you." This inspired the name Kimimachizaka ("I am waiting for you in Japanese").
The park is renowned for its spring blossoms of cherry trees and azaleas, as well as its stunning autumn foliage.
Around 1,500 cherry trees bloom against the backdrop of the large rock wall known as Byobuiwa (screen rock), attracting many visitors to enjoy the breathtaking view.
There are also nighttime illuminations to enhance the experience.
📍Those Who Are Enthusiasts of Road Trips
📍Those Who Want to Immerse in Nature
📍Those Who Seek Love and Blessings
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
We recommend grabbing takeout from the shopping street or picking up some light snacks at 「Michi-no-Eki Futatsui(Roadside Stations Futatsui)」.
In addition to cherry blossom viewing, you can ring the heart-shaped Kimimachibell and write your wishes on an ema at the Koi no Fuda Shrine within the park.
Don’t forget to drop your love letters, whether for a partner, friend, or family member, into the Koi no Fuda Mailbox. The recipient will surely be delighted to receive a letter stamped with a heart-shaped postmark.
For cycling enthusiasts, you can rent a bike at Michi-no-Eki Futatsui and enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Sakura-zutsumi Park by the river!
🌸Hidden Sakura Spot ⑥: Tahoin Temple🌸
「 A Town Temple with Weeping Cherry Blossoms」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Late April to early May
Tahoin Temple is a well-known spot for weeping cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors each spring. The breathtaking sight of cherry blossoms set against the temple’s traditional architecture creates a majestic atmosphere.
Inside the temple, the corridor features a nightingale floor, commonly found in Kyoto, which chirps softly as you walk—a rare feature in the Tohoku region. The garden is said to be inspired by Kyoto’s Ginkakuji Temple.
Join a guided tour to explore the temple’s interior!
📍Those Who Love Japanese Temples
📍Those Who Want to See Weeping Cherry Blossoms
📍Those Who Are Road Trip Enthusiasts
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
Nearby, 「Chaseido」 offers locally sourced tea-based treats, with their tea yokan being a popular choice.
You’ll also find the traditional Ganso Hiyama Natto, made using time-honored methods—both make perfect souvenirs.
After cherry blossom viewing, be sure to stop by 「Irori Cafe CoCo」, where you can relax by a traditional Japanese hearth in a charming old folk house while enjoying delicious local cuisine.
🌸Hidden Sakura Spot ⑦: Nanohana Road🌸
「A Scenic Drive of Pink & Yellow Harmony」
🌸 Best Viewing Time: Late April to early May
During peak bloom, you can enjoy the stunning contrast of pink cherry blossoms, yellow canola flowers, and lush green pines all in one view. This is a favorite scenic drive for visitors.
Nanohana Road stretches approximately 11 km, with surrounding canola fields covering an impressive 11.2 hectares. The chance to see cherry blossoms at the same time makes it a must-visit spot for a leisurely drive or stroll!
📍Those Who Want to Enjoy Canola Flowers
📍Those Who Are Road Trip Enthusiasts
📍Those Who Want to Explore the Oga city too
More to Explore During Cherry Blossoms
At「Michi-no-Eki Ogata」, you can pick up a variety of Japanese home-style dishes.
After a scenic drive along Nanohana Road, take a leisurely stroll through the canola fields at 「Ogata Sun Village Hotel」 and fully enjoy the beauty of the blooms. Of course, it’s also the perfect spot for capturing stunning photos!
The hotel features a restaurant and a souvenir shop, making it a great stop before continuing your coastal drive along the Sea of Japan.
Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning sakura landscapes of Shirakami Sanchi this spring!