Gongen-do Cherry Blossom Embankment

Overview

Gongen-do Cherry Blossom Embankment, located in Satte City, Saitama Prefecture, is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in the Kanto region. The approximately 1km-long row of cherry trees along the Nakagawa River embankment is a historic landscape dating back to the Edo period. In spring, around 1,000 Someiyoshino cherry trees bloom in profusion, creating a beautiful contrast with the rapeseed flowers blooming below. The history of Gongen-do Cherry Blossom Embankment goes back a long way, beginning in the Tensho era (date unspecified) of the Edo period when it was built as a levee for the Gongen-do River, a tributary of the Tone River. Due to frequent breaches, it was also called "Hachi-go Dote" (Eight-unit Embankment). Once, it stretched for 6km with approximately 3000 cherry trees and was a popular cherry blossom spot since the Taisho era. Emperor Meiji visited during his northeastern tour in 1876 (Meiji 9), leading to its alternative name, Miyuki-zutsumi (Imperial Procession Embankment). A new embankment was constructed inside the "Hachi-go Dote" during the Meiji period, completed in 1875 (Meiji 8), and this is the current Miyuki-zutsumi. Later, with changes to the Tone River and Edo River courses, the Gongen-do River was closed at the end of the Meiji period, becoming defunct in 1933 (Showa 8). As a result, the embankment fell into disrepair, and most of the cherry trees were cut down during the post-war confusion, some used for fuel. In 1949 (Showa 24), Someiyoshino cherry trees were replanted on the remaining section of the old Gongen-do River embankment serving as a Nakagawa River embankment—this is the present Gongen-do Cherry Blossom Embankment. In 1988 (Showa 63), rapeseed was planted in the surrounding fallow rice paddies, and hydrangeas were planted on part of the embankment in 1996 (Heisei 8). Red spider lilies were added to the eastern half of the embankment in 2000 (Heisei 12), and daffodils were added to part of the embankment in 2003 (Heisei 15). In 2008 (Heisei 20), it was developed as the Saitama Prefectural Gongen-do Park, including the Gongen-do Adjustment Pond (Gyoko Lake). Gongen-do Cherry Blossom Embankment offers the enjoyment of seasonal flowers not only during the cherry blossom season but throughout the year. In spring, enjoy the contrast of cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers; in summer, the lush green foliage; in autumn, the vibrant red spider lilies; and in winter, the white daffodils. The expansive park includes well-maintained walking paths and rest areas, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics. Gongen-do Cherry Blossom Embankment is a place to connect with nature and history, providing a peaceful and relaxing experience.