Ishiwari-zakura (Cherry Blossom in a Rock Crack)

Overview

Ishiwari-zakura is a cherry blossom tree designated as a national natural monument, located on the grounds of the Morioka District Court in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture. It's an Edohigan cherry (Edohiganzakura) that has grown from a crack in a huge granite rock, and its age is estimated to be over 360 years. Tradition says it was originally planted in the garden of a former Hokkanmo (northern guardhouse) that once stood on this site, and in the early Meiji period it was known as "Sakuraunishi" (Cherry Cloud Stone). Later legend tells of a lightning strike that split a large boulder in the garden of a local lord's residence; a cherry seed found its way into the crack and sprouted. In the 1932 Morioka District Court fire, Ishiwari-zakura was partially burned, but thankfully survived. It bloomed again the following spring. During this fire, a gardener named Jitaro Fujimura is said to have bravely protected the tree, using his water-soaked happi coat to shield it, even sustaining a cut mouth from slipping on wet rocks. Ishiwari-zakura embodies powerful life force and a history preserved through human affection. Peak bloom is around mid-April, when the magnificent pink blossoms create a breathtaking spectacle. Nighttime illuminations offer a magical, different view. Its location in front of the Morioka District Court’s main entrance makes it easily accessible.