4.5 (13)Observation DeckPoint Of InterestEstablishment
The area
Address
Machiya Natsui, Ono, Tamura District, Fukushima 963-3312, Japan
What other travelers are saying about Natsui Senbonzakura
It is located across the road from the Natsui River. The promenade leading up from the shrine side is quite steep and requires a lot of physical strength. It takes about 20 minutes to climb. You can get a panoramic view of the cherry blossom trees lining the Natsui River.
Yes, during peak bloom, there is a cherry blossom festival with food stalls, performances, and nighttime lights that make the trees glow. The festival is a great way to enjoy the local culture while taking in the beauty of the blossoms.
Yes, visitors can enjoy hanami (cherry blossom picnics) along the river. The wide riverbanks offer plenty of space for sitting and relaxing. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and respect other visitors.
Some of the best spots for photos are along the riverbanks, where the trees create a pink tunnel over the water. The small bridges crossing the river also offer great views of the blossoms. If you visit in the evening, the nighttime lights create a magical scene.
No, visiting Natsui Senbonzakura is free. However, if you want to buy food or souvenirs during the festival, it’s good to bring some cash.
If you have time, you can visit Abukuma Cave, which has amazing rock formations, or Lake Inawashiro, one of Japan’s largest lakes with great views. Iwaki City is also nearby, with hot springs, museums, and coastal attractions.
I visited Natsui Senbonzakura on Sunday, April 17, 2022, as it was apparently in full bloom. While walking the riverside promenade is nice, the view of Senbonzakura from the observation deck is simply breathtaking! Cherry blossoms bloom all the way along the river!
The official route to the observation deck seems to be up the stairs next to Suwa Shrine, through the trees, to Amanoiwato → Abukuma Observatory → Senbonzakura Observatory, but everyone else took the path behind the restroom at Suwa Shrine to get to the observation deck.
*Maybe the official route is through the forest and doesn't offer great views. The path behind the restroom offers a better view, and there are forsythia flowers blooming along the way.
The Natsui Senbonzakura Observatory is located on a hill on the outskirts of town, and offers a panoramic view of the Natsui Senbonzakura.
You can climb up to the observation deck from near Suwa Shrine.
The cherry blossoms viewed from here are exceptional. If you come to see the Natsui Senbonzakura, be sure to stop by.
