1: Tochoji temple
Tochoji (東長寺) temple is an ancient temple founded in 806.
It is famous for its ‘lonesome cherry blossom’ that you can see when you pass the temple gate. This ‘lonesome cherry blossom’ is actually composed of two cherry trees that look like one big tree when viewed from a distance, because their branches are intertwined.
This 60-year-old cherry tree has lower branches, so you can observe the flowers from really close – and make great close-up pictures too.
While you are in the temple, make sure to see its vermillion five-story pagoda and the largest seated Buddha statue in Japan.
- Address：2-4, Gokusho-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Opening hours：9：00am-5:00pm
- Getting there：1-minute walk from the exit 1 of Gion station on subway Kuko Line
2: Maizuru Park
Maizuru Park is centered around the Fukuoka castle ruins and is known as one of the best places for viewing cherry blossoms in Fukuoka City. About 1000 cherry trees bloom in spring time. Many different kinds of cherry trees are planted in the park, resulting in pink-and-white color, especially around the castle ruins and along the moat. These trees bloom at different times, so you can enjoy the scenery for extended period of time compared to other places. Do not hesitate to come early in the day, as it is crowded every spring.
The scenery of the Fukuoka Castle stone wall ruins and cherry blossoms will take you back in time to the Edo Period.
Fukuoka Castle’s Sakura Festival is held from the end of March to the beginning of April every year in Maizuru Park. The castle wall and cherry blossoms are illuminated during the festival. This festival also features many food stalls and trucks and various events.
For more details on the Fukuoka Sakura Festival, check out the official website (Japanese language only).
- Address：1-4 Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Getting there：8-minute walk from Ohori-koen station on subway Kuko Line
3: Nishi Park
Nishi Park is also a great spot for cherry blossoms, and it offers a panoramic view on the city, making great photo opportunities. Read our full article here:
【SPRING】Nishi Park: Cherry Blossoms and a Panoramic View of Fukuoka
