By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
Every April, the "Miharu Takizakura" in Miharu Town, Fukushima Prefecture, enters its cherry blossom season, marking a major annual event for the town. With nighttime illumination, the thousand-year-old weeping cherry tree offers a stunning spectacle even after dark, making it a must-visit cherry blossom destination for enthusiasts.
The beautiful view of Miharu Takizakura. (Image source / Koriyama Tourism)
The "Miharu Takizakura," along with the "Jindai Zakura" in Kitakoma, Yamanashi Prefecture, and the "Usuzumi Zakura" in Motosu, Gifu Prefecture, are known as Japan's Three Great Cherry Blossoms. All three are over a thousand years old and are designated as National Natural Monuments of Japan.
The illuminated Miharu Takizakura is dreamlike and magnificent. (Image source / Miharu Town Tourism Association)
Unlike the commonly seen "Somei Yoshino" cherry blossoms in Japan, the "Miharu Takizakura" is a "weeping cherry" variety, standing 18 meters tall and spanning 22 meters in width on both sides. When in full bloom, it displays exceptional visual impact. Resembling cascading waterfall spray, its spectacular beauty is truly breathtaking.