Kitaasaba Nissai Cherry Blossom Festival

Enjoy a scenic walk along a 1.2-kilometer path lined with cherry blossom trees. This peaceful location is just one hour from Tokyo, at Kitaasaba Sakura Zutsumi Park in Saitama Prefecture. Unlike bustling Tokyo, this lesser-known spot provides a serene experience where you can enjoy stunning seasonal displays peacefully.

Kitaasaba Nissai Cherry Blossom Festival

Photo by: PIXTA/ まちゃー Walk along the cherry blossom tree-lined path.

Nissai City hosts the Kitaasaba Nissai Cherry Blossom Festival, featuring the beautiful Kanzakura trees that line the Kitaasaba Sakura Zutsumi Park. Unlike other popular cherry blossom viewing spots, Kitaasaba offers an escape from the frenetic energy often found in Tokyo. Picnickers can find numerous spots along the river to lay out blankets and enjoy serene moments beneath the blossom-laden trees.

During the festival, special events highlight the cherry blossoms with local traditional performances, the lively yosakoi dance (a type of Japanese dance), and celebrations featuring popular characters from nearby towns. The festivities begin on the festival’s opening day, showing local culture against the beautiful backdrop of the flower avenue. Food stalls pop up along the route, offering a delightful selection of seasonal treats that highlight the essence of spring in Japan.

Kitaasaba Cherry Blossom Avenue is the main highlight of the festival and runs along the banks of the Oppe River. The kanzakura (winter-blooming cherry blossom) trees begin to bloom earlier than their more famous cousin, the Somei Yoshino. This serene sanctuary lies among lush hills and rolling mountains. It features approximately 200 angyo-kanzakura (a variety of kanzakura) trees that bloom in early spring, creating a beautiful display of delicate pink flowers. They often grace the cherry blossom lovers in Sakado with their beauty from early to mid-March, two weeks ahead of the latter variety.

Other activities

Photo by: WikiCommons/京浜にけ Drop by Seitenkyu Temple on the way home.

While the Nissai Cherry Blossom Festival stands out as a major highlight, there are also several nearby attractions worth discovering. For instance, Seitenkyu Temple in Sakado City is renowned for its stunning architecture and tranquil ambiance. Additionally, a visit to Shimura Farm offers a taste of rural life, where you can savor fresh produce and enjoy the charm of the Japanese countryside.