Cherry blossom viewing, or "hanami" in Japanese, is one of Japan's most treasured cultural traditions, and many who visit the country time their visit to catch a glimpse of the elusive blossoms. However, for that very reason, spots in some of Japan's main tourist destinations can get extremely crowded during this season.

Why not take a step off the beaten path and head up north to Sendai, the capital city of Tohoku's Miyagi Prefecture, to see blossoms blooming a couple of weeks after those in Tokyo and Kansai, and enjoy an event that, while popular, is sure to be less overwhelmed with visitors than a place like Tokyo or Kyoto, sure to give you a refreshing feeling and let you enjoy the blossoms at your own pace.

Over 1200 trees continue along the Shiroishi river for 8 kilometers where the festival takes place, and the site of hundreds and hundreds of trees waiting on the other shore, with snow capped mountains in the distance is one to behold.

The festival is at Funaoka Castle Park, which is located atop a hill. It takes about 20 minutes to walk to the top along a flower lined path, a beautiful journey to a sublime conclusion. There is also a trolley available that takes you to the park from the parking lot for about ￥500 round trip.

At night from 6 to 10 pm the trees are lit up in a stunning display.

For a small fee, you can even enjoy the sakura from the water on a houseboat, allowing one another perspective of the endless delicate blossoms.

And as any good Japanese festival should, there are some special and scrumptuous local foods to be enjoyed as well, this time some exclusive bento for the occasion.

Other typical festival fare will also be available, along with some specialties such as dango served with a sweet sakura sauce.

The Ogawara Cherry Blossom Festival is not as well known as even some other festivals in the Tohoku area but we highly recommend you step off the typical tourist route and give it a chance; you won't be disappointed!

Useful Information:

Access

The festival is at Funaoka Castle Park located in Ogawa-machi. It is about a 30 minute train ride south from JR Sendai Station. The park is a 10 minute walk from JR Ogawara Station or Funaoka Station.