Enjoy spring! “Sakura” and “Katakuri” meet in the suburbs of Asahikawa
The long winter in Hokkaido has come to an end, and the flowers are blooming with the soft sunshine.
In Asahikawa and its surrounding areas, you can see beautiful flower scenery that makes your heart flutter with the arrival of spring.
This spring, why don't you go out to see the pink "Sakura" and the pretty purple "Katakuri"?
We will also introduce the best time to see the flowers and recommended ways to enjoy them.
🌸 "Sakura" spots that color spring in Asahikawa
After a long winter, the city of Asahikawa is dyed in a soft pink.
The city and its suburbs are dotted with unique cherry blossom spots, from parks where you can easily stop by to hills with spectacular views.
In addition to walking during the day, there are also spots that are lit up at night, so you can enjoy the different expressions of the cherry blossoms at different times.
*The illumination schedule changes depending on the year, so we recommend checking in advance.
■ Kaguraoka Park — A famous cherry blossom viewing spot in the center of Asahikawa
It is close to the city of Asahikawa and is a famous cherry blossom spot that is familiar to locals.
Somei Yoshino and Yaezakura are scattered throughout the large park, and a gentle pink tunnel appears in spring.
It is a very pleasant place to spend a leisurely time on the benches along the promenade or take photos with the cherry blossoms in the background.
Best time to visit: Late April to early May (usually approximate)
Point: If you take a photo with soft light around sunset, the color of the cherry blossoms will be much richer.
■ Asahiyama Park — Cherry blossom hill with a good view
A park spread out on a hill overlooking the city of Asahikawa. In spring, the cherry blossoms that color the park bloom all at once, and the entire hill is enveloped in a soft pink.
There are also many benches and lawn areas, so you can enjoy spring leisurely while enjoying a picnic. On a clear day, you can also see the Daisetsu Mountains in the distance.
At night, it is lit up, creating a fantastic night cherry blossom scenery that is completely different from the daytime. The slightly illuminated petals overlap with the night view of Asahikawa, making it a popular time for photography.
*The illumination period varies every year, so please check the latest information in advance.
Best time to visit: Late April to early May (usually yearly)
Recommendation: Especially romantic at dusk and at night.
■ Palette Hills — Photogenic hill cherry blossom view
A hilly park full of openness located in Takasu Town, next to Asahikawa. In spring, the cherry blossoms in the park bloom, and the wide sky, green hills, and pale cherry blossom colors attract visitors.
The idyllic location is photogenic, and you can spend a leisurely stroll and looking for your own spring scenery.
During the illumination period, the cherry blossoms emerging in the darkness create a magical atmosphere. You can enjoy a moist spring night, which is different from the refreshing impression of the daytime.
*The illumination schedule varies depending on the year, so please check before visiting.
Best time to visit: Late April to early May (usually yearly)
Point: Whether under the blue sky or at night when it's lit up, each has its charm.
■ Joban Park — A relaxing space in the city where the waterfront and cherry blossoms interweave
Joban Park, located in the center of Asahikawa, is a waterside park that embraces the flow of the Ishikari River system and a pond. In spring, the cherry blossoms blooming in the park are reflected on the surface of the pond, creating a soft spring scenery.
The walking path is well maintained, so you can enjoy the cherry blossoms while walking leisurely. The time spent sitting on a bench and watching the water is so calm that you forget you're in the city.
Since it is within walking distance from the central city center, it is also recommended for "cherry blossom tours in the town" along with cafes and shopping.
Not only is the cherry blossom scenery refreshing during the day, but the time when the color of the sky changes at dusk is beautiful, making it perfect for taking photos.
Best time to visit: Late April to early May (usually yearly)
Tip: If you're looking for a reflection on the water, a calm wind is recommended.
💜 Meet the spring fairy "Katakuri"
For a short period of time in early spring, Katakuri blooms with pretty purple flowers in the forest and grassland.
Her appearance is like a spring fairy. In the suburbs of Asahikawa, you can enjoy colonies in places rich in nature.
■ Mt. Push — Katakuri in nature
Straddling Hibu Town in Asahikawa City, Mt. Toshozan is a rich forest.
The purple flowers of Katakuri are dotted on the slopes of the mountain, and you can feel the breath of spring under your feet.
The trail is gentle, perfect for your first hike.
Best time to visit: Late April to mid-May
Highlights: Flowers bloom early in the morning, so a morning walk is best.
■ Otoyama Nature Park — A flower forest where history and nature intertwine
A natural park spread out on the grounds of Asahikawa's long-established sake brewery "Otoyama".
In spring, the forest floor is colored with purple katakuri.
The walking path is flat and easy to walk, making it popular with families and leisurely walkers.
Best time to visit: Late April to mid-May
Point: The tranquility that blends into nature is attractive, perfect for those who want to enjoy flowers slowly.
■ Hokuho Wild Grass Garden — Spring flowers observed at the Nature Education Garden
In the rich wetlands and forests, you can see many wild plants, including katakuri.
You can take your time to observe the flowers while walking along the walking path where the sun shines through the trees.
With a guided walk and an observation notebook in hand, enjoy interacting with the flowers.
Best time to visit: Late April to mid-May
Recommendation: It's fun to take a camera or loupe and observe more!
■ Woodpecker Forest — Spring Katakuri Clusters in the Forest
A natural park that spreads out in the Higashikawa Town and Mt. Kitoushi area. As the snow melts, the katakuri grows in clusters as if filling the forest floor, and the forest turns a soft purple. The sight of it blooming in the sunlight filtering through the trees is truly a symbol of the spring forest. You can also enjoy co-starring with other spring wildflowers such as Ezo Engosaku and Elm.
The park has a walking path that allows you to relax and observe nature. The flowers open firmly in the morning when the temperature rises.
Right near the forest , there is a complex where you can enjoy bathing, and it is recommended to take a break in the bath after a walk. Combined with a spring forest walk, it is a spot where you can refresh your mind and body.
Best time to visit: Late April to mid-May (usually yearly)
🌼 Tips for enjoying spring flowers more
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Flowering moves and falls depending on the year
The best time to see them changes depending on the temperature, so it is recommended to check the flowering information just before. -
The early morning to morning hours are beautiful in photos.
The soft light captures the color of the flowers beautifully. -
Take a walk while paying attention to your steps
In particular, katakuri is easy to step on in colonies, so be sure to observe it so as not to stray from the walking path. -
Take a break at a local café
After the flower tour, it is also nice to enjoy spring sweets and coffee at a café in Asahikawa and Takasu.
