Oita's Cherry Blossoms: A Seasonal Guide｜Stories｜Visit Oita - The Official Tourism Website of Oita,Kyushu,Japan

Oita's Cherry Blossoms: A Seasonal Guide

Oita Prefecture is dotted with diverse cherry blossom spots, ranging from historic castle ruins to solitary cherry trees blooming amidst majestic nature, and even the early-blooming Kawazu cherry blossoms. Why not visit Oita's beautiful scenery, tinged pink with the warm spring weather? This time, we introduce spots by area, from Oita Prefecture's classic, representative locations to lesser-known gems beloved by locals.

* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.

Etiquette for Viewing Cherry Blossoms
【Top Picks】5 Must-See Cherry Blossom Views Representing Oita
Usa-Kunisaki Area (Bungotakada City, Kitsuki City, Usa City, Kunisaki City)
Hita-Nakatsu Yaba Area (Nakatsu City, Hita City, Kusu Town)
Yufu-Kokonoe Area (Yufu City, Kokonoe Town)
Beppu Bay Area (Oita City, Beppu City, Hiji Town)
Taketa and Oku-Bungo Area (Bungo-Ono City and Taketa City)
Nippo Coast Area (Saiki City, Usuki City, Tsukumi City)
Events held during the cherry blossom season
Oita's Cherry Blossoms Map

Etiquette for Viewing Cherry Blossoms

■To enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in good spirits, please observe the following etiquette when viewing them.

Do not damage the trees: Avoid breaking branches, shaking the trees, or trampling the roots.

Take your trash with you: To preserve the beautiful scenery, always take your trash with you.

Consideration for neighbors: In residential areas or near private property, be mindful not to disturb residents with noise or illegal parking.

Be considerate when taking photos: Out of respect for others, avoid blocking pathways or monopolizing photo spots.

■Notes on the Peak Bloom Period

The timing of full bloom can vary significantly from year to year. Please check the latest information before heading out to enjoy the spectacular cherry blossoms.

【Top Picks】5 Must-See Cherry Blossom Views Representing Oita

Yufuin: Cherry Blossom Trees Along the Oita River (Yufu City)

This tranquil cherry blossom avenue stretches along the Oita River flowing through the Yufuin Basin. Against the backdrop of majestic Mount Yufu, the contrast between the yellow rapeseed flowers blooming along the riverbank and the pale pink cherry blossoms epitomizes spring in Yufuin. Stroll along the walking path and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Best viewing period: Early April

Address: Kawakami, Yufuin-machi, Yufu City

GoogleMAP

Isshinji Temple (Oita City)

Nestled in a mountain valley, this site boasts approximately 1,000 “botan cherry trees” in full bloom, making it one of Oita City's premier cherry blossom viewing spots. Looking down from above, you'll be overwhelmed by the fantastical scenery, resembling a vast sea of pink clouds. You can also see rare yellow and green cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Early to mid-April

Address: 1305 Megusuno, Oita City

GoogleMAP

Beppu Park (Beppu City)

This lush park spreads across the city center, accessible on foot from JR Beppu Station. In spring, its Somei-Yoshino cherry trees bloom magnificently, drawing crowds of flower-viewing visitors. It's also perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket on the lawn for leisurely enjoyment. Here, you can feel the breath of spring filling your body while admiring the contrast between colorful tulips and cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April

Address: 3018-1 Noguchihara, Beppu City

GoogleMAP

Nagayu Hot Springs: Village of Weeping Cherry Trees (Taketa City)

Nestled near Nayu Onsen, one of Japan's premier carbonated hot springs, this site boasts Western Japan's largest weeping cherry blossom grove. Across its vast 30,000-tsubo grounds, approximately 2,600 cherry trees of six varieties—including Oyatsu and Komatsu Otome—bloom in profusion. Passing through the vividly colored tunnel of blossoms creates a uniquely memorable experience found only here.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April

Address: 3142-15 Nagayu, Naoiri-machi, Taketa City

GoogleMAP

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms at Youra (Tsukumi City)

The vivid pink blossoms contrast beautifully with the blue sea and sky, creating a breathtaking view that makes this one of Oita Prefecture's renowned cherry blossom spots.

During the blooming season, the Bungo Strait Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held. From the Kuraya venue, considered Japan's densest concentration of trees, you can see all the way to Shikoku. Nearby plazas offer fresh local seafood and specialty products, drawing crowds of tourists seeking both beautiful scenery and delicious food.

Best viewing period: Early February to early March

Address: Youra, Tsukumi City

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Usa-Kunisaki Area (Bungotakada City, Kitsuki City, Usa City, Kunisaki City)

Awashima Park(Bungotakada City): This scenic spot offers a vivid contrast between the blue sea and cherry blossoms. Within the grounds stands Awashima Shrine, dedicated to the deity of matchmaking, making it a highly popular spring date spot.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 7-10 Usuno, Bungotakada City; See More

Nameshi Dam Greenland (Bungotakada City): Cherry blossoms bloom around the dam lake, surrounded by uniquely shaped rocks and mountains. On windless days, the lake's surface reflects the full bloom of cherry blossoms and the rocks. The scenery is as beautiful as a mirror, moving all who see it.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: 1587 Ichihata, Bungotakada City; GoogleMAP

Kitsuki Castle, Castle Hill Park (Kitsuki City): Kitsuki Castle, towering on a hill overlooking the sea, is also renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot. Numerous cherry trees line the walking paths leading to the castle. The sight of the white castle against a backdrop of full-bloom cherry blossoms and the blue sea is truly beautiful. You can feel the historical atmosphere of Japan here.

Best viewing period: Late March
Address: 16-1 Kitsuki, Kitsuki City; See More

Usa Jingu Shrine (Usa City): This is the head shrine of the many Hachiman shrines across Japan. Somei-Yoshino and double-flowered cherry blossoms bloom in various areas of the expansive shrine grounds. The combination of the red buildings and the pink cherry blossoms creates a beauty unique to Japan.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 2859 Minami-Usa, Usa City; See More

Fudoki no Oka (Usa City): This park adjoins the Oita Prefectural History Museum. Within the grounds lies a cluster of ancient burial mounds constructed between the 3rd and 6th centuries. Stroll along the well-maintained paths to enjoy both history and cherry blossoms simultaneously. After viewing the cherry blossoms, be sure to visit the History Museum.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Takamori Kyozuka, Usa City; See More

Sakura Zutsumi Park (Usa City): This park was built along the river. In spring, about 200 cherry trees bloom, creating a tunnel-like effect. You can enjoy walking while listening to the sound of the river or relaxing with a picnic near the water.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 347-1 Beppu, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Takasu Suspension Bridge Park (Usa City): This park features a large suspension bridge spanning the river. From the bridge, you can see cherry blossoms blooming on both sides of the river. The combination of the suspension bridge's form and the soft scenery of the cherry blossoms is beautiful, making it a recommended spot for photography.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Kamihaida/Yamamoto, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Hibikiyama Park (Usa City): This park is characterized by its distinctive rows of torii gates. While famous for its hydrangeas, the entire mountain turns pink with cherry blossoms in spring. From the higher vantage points, you can overlook the city, and the park is illuminated at night.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Oaza Yokkaichi Kogikuchi, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Koushita Dam (Usa City): Cherry trees line the shores of the dam lake. When they bloom in full splendor, the lake's surroundings become exceptionally vibrant. On calm days, the reflection of the cherry trees is mirrored on the lake's surface. This spot is recommended for those who wish to enjoy cherry blossoms in a tranquil setting.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Koushita, Inai-cho, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Sen-no-iwa Rock (Usa City): There is a massive 100-meter rock wall known as “Sen-no-iwa.” This rock is designated as a National Scenic Beauty. The sight of beautiful cherry blossoms blooming against the backdrop of these imposing, towering rocks is truly magnificent. It's a view you'll definitely want to see during your drive.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Torigoe, Anshin-in-machi, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Family Travel Village Ajimu Sakura Plaza (Usa City): This leisure facility features campgrounds and hot springs. Enjoy various activities alongside cherry blossoms. The spacious “Sakura Plaza” offers an open atmosphere. It's a popular spot for families and groups visiting during spring break.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Shimoge, Ajimu-machi, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Aki Dam Recreation Area (Kunisaki City): Approximately 3,000 cherry trees bloom around the dam lake. This area is particularly famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot. It features a large grassy plaza where festivals are held. During peak bloom, many people come for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Yagawa, Aki-machi, Kunisaki City; GoogleMAP

Oita Airport Area · Sakurazaka (Kunisaki City): Along the road leading to Oita Airport, there is a cherry blossom-lined avenue stretching approximately 1 kilometer. When in full bloom, it creates a particularly spectacular view. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms flowing by from inside your car. It's a special springtime drive course.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Itoharu, Musashi-machi, Kunisaki City; GoogleMAP

Ogi Kannon Viewing Park (Kunisaki City): This park is located on a hill with excellent views. It offers a spectacular spot where you can take in panoramic views of the sea and mountains. From within the park, you can watch airplanes take off, enjoying a panoramic view of planes against the blue sky and the pink blossoms of cherry trees.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 1002-1 Ogi, Musashi-machi, Kunisaki City; GoogleMAP

Gyonyu Dam (Kunisaki City): A park has been developed around the dam. In spring, you can enjoy walking while viewing the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Upstream from the dam, there is also a full-scale park golf course. It's a place where you can relax while feeling the spring breeze.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Yokote, Kunisaki-machi, Kunisaki City; GoogleMAP

Himeshima Port Ferry Plaza (Himeshima Village): Located just off the ferry terminal. In spring, cherry blossoms in full bloom welcome visitors. Seeing the cherry blossoms coloring the entrance to the island makes you look forward to your upcoming trip.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Himeshima Village, Higashikunisaki District; GoogleMAP

Himeshima Lighthouse(Himeshima Village): This is the Lighthouse Park at the eastern tip of the island. From here, you can see spectacular ocean views. In spring, the park's cherry blossoms reach full bloom. The contrast between the white lighthouse, blue sea, and pink cherry blossoms creates a photogenic beauty.

Best viewing period: Around early April
Address: Himeshima Village, Higashikunisaki District; See More

Hyoshimizu (Himeshima Village): Legend has it that long ago, when a princess clapped her hands in prayer, water sprang forth. Cherry blossoms bloom around this historic spring. With hot springs nearby, you can enjoy both the hot springs and the cherry blossoms together.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Himeshima Village, Higashikunisaki District; See More

Hita-Nakatsu Yaba Area (Nakatsu City, Hita City, Kusu Town)

Former Kurushima Garden (Kusu Town): This beautiful garden is designated as a National Scenic Spot. Visitors can stroll through three distinct gardens. Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossom scenery alongside historic stone walls and buildings.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 885 Mori, Kusu Town; GoogleMAP

Maple Yaba Cycling Road (Nakatsu City): This cycling path utilizes old railway tracks. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in full bloom, creating a tunnel of blossoms. You can ride your bicycle through beautiful scenery.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Nakatsu Station to Former Morizane Onsen Station; GoogleMAP

Nakatsu Castle (Nakatsu City): Nakatsu Castle boasts the oldest stone walls in the Kyushu region. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the white castle. The white castle buildings, pink cherry blossoms, and ancient stone walls. This scene where these three colors overlap is a symbol of spring in Nakatsu City.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Ninocho Honmaru, Nakatsu City; See More

Ninomaru Park (Nakatsu City): This park is located right next to Nakatsu Castle. It was once the site of residences for feudal lords and their families. Within the park, where approximately 150 cherry trees bloom, you can enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 1235-10 Himeji-machi, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Osada Park (Nakatsu City): These cherry trees were planted by local residents. Numerous cherry trees bloom magnificently, surrounding the plaza and pond. During the cherry blossom festival season, food stalls line the area, creating a lively atmosphere.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 279 Osada, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Shinjoji Temple (Nakatsu City): This temple is famous for its weeping cherry trees. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and feel the arrival of spring in its tranquil atmosphere. It's a place we highly recommend for anyone wishing to enjoy the harmony of a traditional Japanese temple and beautiful cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 6315 Nakama, Yamakuni-machi, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Keiseki-en Garden (Nakatsu City): This beautiful Japanese garden is located near Yabakei Dam. The harmony between the natural scenery created by rocks and water and the cherry blossoms in full bloom is breathtakingly beautiful. You can stroll through the garden and enjoy the spring scenery.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 2286-1 Oshima, Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Jinsenji Temple (Nakatsu City): This temple is famous for its magnificent weeping cherry tree, which has grown old over the years. The sight of this uniquely shaped cherry tree, with its branches drooping gracefully, in full bloom is truly elegant and beautiful. Many people visit just to see this single cherry tree.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 1457 Sanko Kamifukozu, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Ogakiyama Koenji Temple (Nakatsu City): Here lies a beautiful weeping cherry tree known only to those in the know. It's a hidden gem rarely crowded with tourists. Surrounded by nature, it's recommended for travelers who wish to quietly and leisurely appreciate the cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Oaza Shin-yaba, Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu City (Ogakiyama Settlement); GoogleMAP

Ohara Hachimangu Shrine Area · Ohara Weeping Cherry Trees (Hita City): The area surrounding Ohara Hachimangu Shrine, the principal guardian shrine of Hita City, is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. It is particularly known for its beautiful weeping cherry trees with their cascading branches. Visitors can enjoy both the sacred atmosphere of this historic shrine and the beautiful spring blossoms at the same time. It's perfect for a stroll after paying respects.

Best viewing period: Mid-March
Address: 2 Tajima, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Iichiko Hita Distillery (Hita City): This is a distillery for Japan's distilled spirit, shochu. Its expansive grounds feature a magnificent row of cherry trees, which visitors are free to stroll among. After enjoying the cherry blossoms, you can shop at the store or sample the spirits.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 810-1 Nishi-Arita, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Tsukikuma Park (Hita City): This park was built on the site of a former castle. In spring, the entire small hill is covered in cherry blossoms. From the park's summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Hita City. It's a wonderful viewpoint where you can photograph the cityscape together with the cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: 2-3 Maruyama, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Kameyama Park (Hita City): This park is located along the banks of the Mikuma River. The reflection of cherry blossoms on the river's surface is truly beautiful. Strolling along the picturesque riverside while viewing the blooming cherry blossoms allows you to experience the essence of Japanese spring.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Nakanoshima-machi, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Hachinosu Lake Park (Hita City): A nature-rich park located on a dam lake. The combination of the blue lake and pink cherry blossoms creates a breathtaking view. The photogenic scenery makes it an ideal spot to stop by during a spring drive.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Tochino, Nakatsue Village, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Hagio Park (Hita City): Numerous cherry trees are planted within the grounds, which feature a large reservoir. The park includes a soccer field and children's play equipment, making it very popular with local families. It's a spacious park where you can enjoy the cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: 2893-30 Nishikushi-cho, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Kagami-zaka Park (Hita City): This park sits on high ground, offering spectacular views overlooking Hita City. While the daytime scenery is stunning, it's also highly recommended at night. You can enjoy both the city's nightscape and the illuminated cherry blossoms simultaneously. It's a place to spend a romantic evening.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Ueno-machi, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Tanoharu Park (Hita City): In spring, you can enjoy picnics beneath approximately 600 cherry trees in full bloom. It's a spot where you can relax and unwind at a leisurely pace. It's a beloved spot among locals.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Along Prefectural Road 671, Tsurugawachi-machi, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Ishii Satoyama Park (Hita City): Along the road winding through the mountains, you can see the beautiful sight of cherry blossoms in bloom. You can take a quiet stroll while feeling the essence of Japan's original landscape. It is a place where you can encounter beautiful spring scenery that soothes the soul.

Best viewing period: Early to mid-April
Address: 3 Ishii-machi, Hita City; GoogleMAP

Yufu-Kokonoe Area (Yufu City, Kokonoe Town)

Kuchinohara Fureai Plaza (Yufu City): Enjoy cherry blossoms in full bloom amidst the peaceful atmosphere of the Japanese countryside. This quiet spot is perfect for relaxing. It's recommended for those who want to slowly take in the spring scenery surrounded by nature.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Shonai-cho, Yufu City; GoogleMAP

How to Enjoy Yufuin

Yufuin is a charming town located in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, offering not only relaxing onsen but also breathtaking natural scenery such as Mt. Yufu and Lake Kinrin. Simply strolling through the town is an uplifting experience. Dotted with cafés and shops, Yufuin offers delightful new surprises and discoveries for visitors. This article introduces ways to enjoy Yufuin – be sure to visit and create unforgettable memories on your journey.

Beppu Bay Area (Oita City, Beppu City, Hiji Town)

Beppu Rakutenchi（Beppu City）: This amusement park boasts a long history. Visitors can ride a cable car up a steep slope and view cherry blossoms from high above on a suspension bridge. The experience of seeing cherry blossoms from the sky is unique to this location. It is very popular with families.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 18-chome, Nagarekawa-dori, Beppu City; See More

Tsurumidake Nature Park Shiki-no-sato (Beppu City): This nature park lies at the foot of Mount Tsurumi. Various types of cherry blossoms bloom here, including Somei-Yoshino and weeping cherry trees. It's a place to enjoy seasonal flowers amidst nature. Riding the ropeway is also recommended.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Minami Tateishi, Beppu City; GoogleMAP

Oga Farm（Hiji Town）: This coastal herb garden features early-blooming Kawazu cherry blossoms around late February, followed by various cherry blossom varieties throughout April. It's a highly photogenic spot where you can enjoy the seasonal floral display.

Best viewing period: Late February to mid-April (Kawazu cherry blossoms: late February to early March)
Address: 6025-1 Oga, Hiji Town; See More

Oita Castle Ruins Park (Oita City): This park is located in the center of Oita City. Cherry blossoms bloom along the castle moat. At night, the park is illuminated, allowing visitors to enjoy the magical nighttime cherry blossoms. It is easily accessible and a popular spot bustling with many citizens and tourists.

Best viewing period: Late March onwards
Address: 4 Niage-machi, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Peace Civic Park (Oita City): This park features a magnificent row of cherry trees lining the river. It is one of Oita City's premier cherry blossom viewing spots. Visitors can stroll along the riverbank or relax in the plaza. It is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.

Best viewing period: Late March
Address: 101 Hagiwara Midori-machi, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Mt. Tsurumi（Beppu City）: Take the ropeway to view cherry blossoms from the mountain summit. Due to the elevation difference, the blooming period varies, allowing you to enjoy cherry blossoms over a long period. The breathtaking views from the sky are truly moving.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 10-7 Kanbara, Minami Tateishi, Beppu City; See More

Site of Shoya Residence (Hiji Town): This is where the residence of the village leader once stood. Remnants like stone walls evoke a sense of history. Here, a stately and magnificent cherry tree blooms quietly. Recommended for those wishing to quietly savor Japan's ancient history and the beauty of cherry blossoms, away from the hustle and bustle of tourists.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-March
Address: 5389 Toyooka, Hiji Town; GoogleMAP

Hiji Castle Ruins “Castle Town Park” (Hiji Town): This park utilizes the site of a castle ruins on a hill overlooking Beppu Bay. The blue sea and sky spread out before you. The contrast between the sea's blue and the pink of the cherry blossoms is magnificent, creating a sense of openness. Enjoy cycling or walking here.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 2610-1 Hiji Town; See More

Ogiyama Sakura Garden (Beppu City): Approximately 6,000 cherry trees are planted across the expansive grounds. The view overlooking Beppu Bay through the cherry blossoms is truly spectacular. True to its name, “Sakura Garden,” visitors can fully immerse themselves in a world of cherry blossoms stretching as far as the eye can see.

Best Viewing Period: Early to late April
Address: Ogiyama, Tsurumi, Beppu City, Oita Prefecture; GoogleMAP

Shidaka Lake (Beppu City): A beautiful lake atop a mountain. Cherry blossoms bloom around the lake. Here, you can take a boat and view the cherry blossoms from the water. The reflection of the blossoms on the lake surface and the views of the mountains, including Mt. Yufu and Mt. Tsurumi, are also spectacular.

Best viewing period: Mid-April
Address: 4380 Shitaka, Beppu City, Beppu; See More

Gokoku Shrine (Oita City): Located on high ground, this shrine offers spectacular views overlooking Beppu Bay and the cityscape of Oita City. The path leading to the shrine is lined with cherry trees, allowing visitors to enjoy both the quintessential atmosphere of a Japanese shrine and the beauty of cherry blossoms simultaneously.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 1371 Maki, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Kenmin no Mori Heisei Forest Park “Sakura Garden” (Oita City): This renowned spot features approximately 2,000 cherry trees blooming amidst nature. Walking paths allow visitors to enjoy hiking while viewing the cherry blossoms. It's the perfect place for those seeking to escape the city and refresh themselves surrounded by rich nature and cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Early to late April
Address: 2007-1 Mawashino, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Mount Takao Natural Park (Oita City): The park features a campground where you can enjoy outdoor activities while viewing cherry blossoms. It offers the unique experience of camping amidst the cherry blossoms. It's an ideal spot to spend time with family and friends.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 4587 Yokoo, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Nanase River Natural Park (Oita City): This is a very large park developed along the river. It features a large grassy field, making it perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket. With many areas for children to play, it is popular with local families.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 188 Aza Akaike, Oaza; GoogleMAP

Imaichi Stone Pavement (Oita City): This historic stone-paved path was walked by samurai during the Edo period. Beautiful weeping cherry blossoms bloom here. The combination of moss-covered stone pavements and cascading cherry blossoms evokes the full charm of old Japan.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 2563 Imaichi, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Strolling in Oita City

Oita City is the center of Oita Prefecture. It has a JR station, which is important when visiting Oita Prefecture from outside the prefecture, and serves as a base for sightseeing.

The city is dotted with tourist attractions such as “JR Oita City” for shopping, museums, zoos, and aquariums that can be reached within 30 minutes by bus. Transportation access for sightseeing in the city is convenient and easy by bus or train. Enjoy exploring Oita City while making your rounds!

Taketa and Oku-Bungo Area (Bungo-Ono City and Taketa City)

Oka Castle Ruins National Historic Site (Taketa City): This famous spot is selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots. Towering stone walls remain atop the mountain, earning it the nickname “Castle in the Sky.” Enjoy the beautiful contrast between the historic stone walls and the cherry blossoms.

Best Viewing Period: Late March to Early April
Address: 2761 Taketa, Taketa City; See More

Asakura Fumio Memorial Museum (Bungo-Ono City): This memorial museum honors the renowned sculptor Asakura Fumio. Sculptures are displayed throughout the expansive park grounds. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst the beautiful scenery where cherry blossoms, artistic works, and nature harmoniously blend.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 1587-11 Ikeda, Asaji-machi, Bungo-Ono City; GoogleMAP

Ondake Cherry Blossom Road (Bungo-Ono City): This approximately 6-kilometer forest road leads to Mount Mitake. Along the road, a long avenue of cherry trees stretches out, with about 1,000 trees in bloom. It's the perfect spring drive course. The pink scenery flowing past your car window makes you feel the arrival of spring.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Udaeda, Kiyokawa-machi, Bungo-Ono City; GoogleMAP

Eboshi Park (Bungo-Ono City): This park is located on the slopes of Mount Eboshi. Approximately 500 “Botan Cherry” trees bloom here. These cherry trees are characterized by their numerous petals and late blooming period. Therefore, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing even into mid-April.

Best viewing period: Mid-April to early May
Address: Fujikita, Ono-machi, Bungo-Ono City; GoogleMAP

Grave Keeper's Weeping Cherry Tree (Taketa City): This large weeping cherry tree stands alone atop a small hill. It was planted to honor the graves. As it is near private homes and fields, please observe proper etiquette when viewing.

Best viewing period: Late March
Address: 477 Kamisakata, Taketa City; GoogleMAP

Nippo Coast Area (Saiki City, Usuki City, Tsukumi City)

Usuki Castle Ruins (Usuki City): This is the site of a castle built by a warlord during the Warring States period. Now developed as a park, its impressive stone walls and moat remain. Many people visit during cherry blossom season. Nighttime illumination allows visitors to enjoy beautiful nighttime cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 91 Niujima, Usuki City, Usuki; See More

Usuki Stone Buddha Park (Usuki City): This park is located near the nationally designated treasure, the Usuki Stone Buddha. Cherry blossoms bloom amidst Japan's tranquil countryside scenery. Its main attraction is the breathtaking sight of deep pink moss phlox covering the ground.

Best viewing period: Mid-April onwards
Address: 804-1 Fukada, Usuki City; GoogleMAP

Aoe Dam (Tsukumi City): The entire park area surrounding the dam is filled with blooming cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and mountain cherry varieties. Known as “Aoe Dam's Cherry Blossoms,” it is a beloved spot among locals. Surrounded by nature, this quiet location allows visitors to leisurely enjoy hanami.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Kamiaoe Kawauchi, Tsukumi City; GoogleMAP

Path of History and Literature（Saiki City）: This beautiful street was selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Roads. White walls and old samurai residences remain. The historic buildings and cherry blossom scenery complement each other perfectly. It's an ideal spot for a quiet stroll while feeling the history of Japan.

Best viewing period: Early April
Address: Ote-machi, Saiki City; See More

Kichomu Land (Usuki City): This park is named after Kichomu-san, the protagonist of a famous Oita Prefecture folktale. Around the large pond within the park, approximately 2,000 cherry trees bloom magnificently. With sports facilities and playground equipment, it's a place where families can enjoy themselves all day long.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: 326 Hara, Nozucho, Usuki City; GoogleMAP

Oiwa Area (Usuki City): This spot is located in the mountainous area south of Usuki Castle Ruins. Beautiful cherry blossoms, known as Yamazakura, bloom along the mountainside. It's a hidden gem not widely known among tourists. Recommended for those who want to enjoy hiking while viewing the blossoms.

Best viewing period: Late March to early April
Address: Tokai-zoe, Usuki City; GoogleMAP