Garyu Park

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Garyu Mountain is famous for its gorgeous pine trees, while the neighboring Garyu Park is known for the beauty of its cherry blossoms. The park spreads out from Ryugaike Pond in the center and approximately 600 cherry trees, most predominantly Somei Yoshino, bloom on its entire premises, including 160 or so around the pond. Also viewed from within the park is Hokushin Gogaku, a mountain range consisting of five peaks in Northern Nagano area. Viewed side by side with these mountain tops still covered with snow, cherry blossoms look even more fascinating.

(Source: PIXTA)

Cherry blossoms festival

From the beginning to the middle of April each year, “Cherry Blossoms Festival” is held in Garyu Park. During the festival period, stands are set up to sell local specialty foods among many other things and various events are held, charging up the park with a festive mood and putting visitors in high spirits.

(Source: PIXTA)

Ryugaike Pond

Located in the center of the park is Ryugaike Pond, where you can enjoy a boat ride. The look of the pond reflecting cherry blossoms on the water with mountains in the backdrop is exceptionally beautiful. Towards the end of spring, cherry petals floating on the water color the pond in pink, making for yet another gorgeous view.

(Source: PIXTA)

Illuminated cherry trees

The park is illuminated during the cherry blossom season. Beautifully-lit cherry blossoms can be seen in various parts of the park but are most luminous around Ryugaike Pond. The water surface serves as a mirror reflecting illuminated cherry trees. Changing the mood from daytime, it assumes a romantic air at night.

(Source: PIXTA)

Suzaka City Zoo

Garyu Park also has a small zoo, where capybaras are the most popular residents. Particularly from winter to early spring, visitors can see them taking a bath. The content look on their faces while enjoying their hot bath is so adorable that it makes you smile!