Takato-joshi Park

(Source : PIXTA)

In the nature-filled Ina city, which is surrounded by the southern alps and the central alps in Nagano prefecture, there is a famous sakura spot, the Takato-joshi Park. In spring, 1,500 cherry blossom trees full of blooming flowers are seen in this park where a big castle stood once. The characteristic of the cherry blossoms here at Takato-joshi Park is that they are slightly smaller and have a reddish tinge. The whole area turns pink every year between early and late April. It is so popular that during the full bloom, the area attracts 250,000 tourists from all over Japan. You will be dazzled by the beauty created by the grandeur of nature and the cherry blossoms.

Takato Kohigan Sakura

The sakura (cherry blossoms) blooming in Takato-joshi park is a species called Takato Kohigan Sakura. This is a type of sakura that is only found here in all of Japan. Its characteristic is the slightly stronger pink color, which looks gorgeous on the blossoms. It is well worth having a look at these sakura that are rare to find.

(Source: PIXTA)

Ounkyo

The most recommended spot is Ounkyo, the only bridge in the park. In kanji script of Japanese, it is written as "bridge of sakura and clouds" and as the name suggests, it feels as if the bridge is surrounded by sakura as if it's inside clouds. It gets lit up at night allowing visitors to enjoy a fantastic atmosphere.

(Source: PIXTA)

Sakura and the alps

The southern and central alps can be seen from the south side of the park. The contrast between the white snow on the mountain tops and the pink of the sakura is truly a beautiful picture. It is one of this spot's characteristic to be able to see the great mountains together with the sakura.