A dreamy tunnel of 1,000 weeping cherry trees revealed: the world’s most beautiful cycling path

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported

Situated in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture, there is a walking and cycling path created from a decommissioned old railway. Along the route, a preserved steam locomotive that once operated on the tracks is on display. When cherry blossom season comes, the 1,000 weeping cherry trees planted here burst into bloom, decorating the path like a pink waterfall of petals, transforming it into a dreamlike avenue.

The site of the former Japanese National Railways Nissin Line was abandoned in 1984 and was later transformed into a 3-kilometer scenic walking path, just a 3-minute walk from the station — very convenient. Among the famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan’s Tohoku region, Fukushima accounts for more than half. In addition to the Nissin Line Path, there are also Gionji River, Machi U Tsutsumi Park, Tsuchiyu Onsen, Ouchi-juku, and Tsugawa Onsen. When you come for a trip, you can easily combine several destinations.

Along the path, you can also admire the historic steam locomotives that once ran here, as well as Neshi Station. The railway once connected Kitakata and Neshi. The stunning pink cherry blossoms, paired with the railway tracks and black steam locomotives, create a multi-layered visual beauty.