Okinawa Temple Cherry Blossom Guide

Okinawa is the earliest place in Japan where cherry blossoms bloom, with the vibrant kanhizakura (Taiwan cherry) flowering from late January to early February each year. Here are some must-visit temple cherry blossom spots: • Yaedake Sakura Forest Park: Located on Mount Yaedake in Okinawa's Motobu Peninsula, this park sits at an elevation of 453 meters and features over 7,000 kanhizakura trees blooming sequentially from the foot to the summit, creating a dazzling cherry blossom corridor. On January 18-19, traditional folk performances are held, and you can enjoy local delicacies halfway up the mountain. If driving, you can stop along the way for photos, and the summit observatory offers breathtaking ocean views. • Nago Castle Park: Home to approximately 20,000 kanhizakura trees, this park transforms into a sea of pink during the blooming season and has been selected as one of the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan." The 2-kilometer cherry blossom trail is incredibly romantic, and the "Nago Cherry Blossom Festival" held on January 25-26 adds extra fun to your trip. Before heading out, it’s recommended to check the weather and blooming schedule in advance, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring a camera to capture the beautiful moments.