Beautiful Cherry Blossom Scenery in Kagawa

Hello, this is TAKA, your interpreter-guide. From late March to early April, it’s all about cherry blossoms, isn’t it? While there are many famous cherry blossom spots along Japan’s “Golden Route” — Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka — Kagawa also has incredibly photogenic locations. In fact, some of these spots have gone viral on Instagram and have quietly become well-known nationwide as hidden sanctuaries for stunning cherry blossom photography.

The other day, three guests joined a tour I organized to explore photogenic locations in Kagawa. Our first stop was Shikanoidesui. Until just two or three years ago, it was completely unknown — a true hidden gem. However, after being featured on social media, it quickly gained explosive popularity.

Originally, the area began as a beautifully maintained local waterway, and at first, there were no cherry trees at all. Over time, cherry trees were gradually planted, and after about 20 years, it became a beloved spot where local residents gather to enjoy hanami — a seasonal picnic under the cherry blossoms, where people bring food and relax beneath the trees during this pleasant time of year.

We were welcomed by rows of cherry blossoms in full bloom lining both sides of the waterway. Koi fish swam gracefully below, enhancing the traditional Japanese atmosphere. Petals floated on the water’s surface while the koi swam beneath them — a scene full of elegance and charm. There is also a popular café nearby where you can enjoy excellent coffee.

The cherry trees continue for several dozen meters. In addition to the widely planted Somei Yoshino, you can also find a rare variety called Kanhi-zakura. This type blooms around the Lunar New Year and is sometimes referred to as “New Year’s cherry blossoms.” It features medium-sized, deep reddish-purple flowers that face downward. Unlike typical cherry blossoms, the petals do not scatter individually; instead, the entire flower, including the calyx, falls intact. Being able to see such rare cherry blossoms is one of the unique attractions of Shikanoidesui.

Our next stop was a mountain covered in cherry blossoms — a place you can only reach by car, and one that is virtually unknown to foreign visitors. It is truly a hidden gem, so I will keep its name undisclosed to preserve its secrecy. Around 2,000 cherry trees bloom there, creating a breathtaking scene where everything is pink — look up, and you see blossoms overhead; look down, and the ground is covered with fallen petals.

When the wind blows, petals dance through the air like a “sakura blizzard,” creating a fleeting, magical beauty. Cherry blossoms only show their full glory for a few days each year, symbolizing the delicate and ephemeral beauty that Japan is known for. I hope you will come and experience this in Kagawa.

This year’s cherry blossoms have already fallen, but if you contact me in advance for next season, I can guide you to the best spots at the perfect time. Feel free to reach out anytime!