Tsuruoka’s major cherry blossoms spots

Tsuruoka is home to many beautiful cherry blossom spots, the most famous being Tsuruoka Park, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Sites (日本さくら名所100選) for its 700 sakura trees that bloom around the historic Shonai Shrine. But the beauty doesn’t stop there—many other lesser-known places around the city offer equally stunning sakura scenes. Let us introduce you to some of them!

1. Tsuruoka Park

This is the easiest cherry blossom spot to access from Tsuruoka Station. You can either walk to Shonai Shrine (about 20 minutes on foot) or take a short 5-minute bus ride and get off at the Chido Museum stop—one of the many scenic spots around the park that becomes especially magical during peak sakura season. All around the park, you’ll find food and game stalls that bring the festive spirit to life. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the cherry blossom season just like the locals—by eating, drinking, and having fun under the sakura trees. The park is illuminated at night for people to appreciate the beauty of sakura after sunset.

Blooming season: Early April to Mid April (full-bloom often happens around 5 days after eclosion)

In 2025, full-bloom was observed on April 12th

Bus timetable : bus stop name: Chidohakubutsukan

2. Uchikawa river banks

The Uchikawa river boards the streets that lead to the old commercial center of Tsuruoka: the Showa, Ginza and Sanno streets.

Bus timetable : bus stop name: Ginzadori

Blooming season: Early April to Mid April (full-bloom often happens around 5 days after eclosion)

In 2025, full-bloom was observed on April 12th

3. Matsugaoka’s Reclamation Lands (also known as “Samurai Silk Farms”)

The Matsugaoka Reclamation Lands tell the story of the Shonai Clan’s ex-samurai, who reinvented themselves as silk farmers after the Boshin War. The preserved wooden buildings were once used to raise silkworms and produce silk, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s Meiji-era (19th century) industrial heritage. During cherry blossom season, the site transforms into a stunning scene, with soft pink petals enhancing the nostalgic beauty of the historic architecture. In recent years, seasonal nighttime illuminations have added an extra touch of magic, making Matsugaoka an enchanting spot to experience sakura after dark.

Bus timetable : bus stop name: Yupoka (walk 2.6km to Matsugaoka’s Reclamation Lands)

Blooming season:　Mid April (full-bloom often happens around 5 days after eclosion)

A little later than in Tsuruoka Park. In 2025, full-bloom was observed on April 14th

4. Oyama Park

Oyama Park is another majestic spot to enjoy cherry blossoms in Tsuruoka City. Nestled between the historic Zenpoji Temple and the popular Kamo Aquarium (both accessible by bus), the park is also surrounded by well-known local attractions such as the Watarai Sake Brewery—with its Dewa no Yuki Museum—and the Honcho tsukemono (pickled vegetables) factory. It’s the perfect destination for a full day of exploration, offering a peaceful walk through the Japanese countryside, surrounded by the sights, tastes, and traditions of the Shonai region.

Bus timetable (terminus: Kamo Aquarium) : bus stop name: Oyamanishimachi (walk 1.2km to Oyama Park)

Bus timetable (terminus: Zenpoji Temple) : bus stop name: Oyamakouenguchi

Blooming season:　Mid April (full-bloom often happens around 5 days after eclosion)

A little later than in Tsuruoka Park. In 2025, full-bloom was observed on April 15th

5. Atsumi Onsen

Located in the southern part of Tsuruoka City, on the way to Niigata Prefecture, Atsumi Onsen is a historic hot spring town known for its charming atmosphere and renowned ryokan such as Bankokuya and Tachibanaya. According to legend, the hot spring was discovered by the famous monk Kobo Daishi, who struck the ground with his staff, causing hot water to gush forth and form the Atsumi River. Today, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, relax at public footbaths, stop by cozy cafés like Chitto Mosshe, or even soak in a ryokan’s hot spring for a rejuvenating daytime bath.

Bus timetable (terminus: Kamo Aquarium) : bus stop name: Ashiyu Anbeyumae

Blooming season:　Mid April to Late April (full-bloom often happens around 5 days after eclosion)

1 week or more later than in Tsuruoka Park.

These are some of the major sakura spots in Tsuruoka, but there are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered! We’ll soon be sharing more about the lesser-known cherry blossom locations scattered across the region—some of which are best explored by car. Stay tuned!

6. Akagawa River Banks

The Akagawa River banks offer another ideal setting for leisurely strolls beneath cherry blossoms. The blooming period closely aligns with that of Tsuruoka Park, typically reaching full bloom about a day later. On the two weekends during peak bloom, the nearby “Sakura House” hosts a charming sakura marché, where dozens of local businesses showcase and sell their handmade crafts and regional delicacies.

Bus timetable : bus stop name: Dewa Shonai Kokusaimura

Blooming season: Early April to Mid April (full-bloom often happens around 5 days after eclosion)In 2025, full-bloom was observed on April 12th