Ranch's Cherry Blossoms (Makiba no Sakura)

Overview

Located in Hosono, Kobayashi City, "Ranch's Cherry Blossoms" is a breathtaking cherry blossom avenue boasting approximately 1,000 Someiyoshino cherry trees. Its history dates back to 1908 (Meiji 41), when the Kobayashi branch stable of the National Stud Farm's military horse replenishment unit planted the trees. By the early Showa period, the approximately 2-kilometer avenue opened to the public as "Gunba no Sakura" (Military Horse Cherry Blossoms), becoming famous throughout Kyushu. The Moji Railway Bureau (present-day JR West) even ran special hanami trains, attracting approximately 400,000 visitors during the peak season. After the war, it was renamed "Ranch's Cherry Blossoms." However, as many of the trees reached the end of their lifespan, the cherry blossom festival was discontinued after 1973 (Showa 48). Then, in 1988 (Showa 63), Kobayashi City launched a revival project, and with the cooperation of its citizens, over 1,000 cherry trees now greet visitors. In 2008, marking the 100th anniversary of the planting, the cherry blossom festival was revived. In spring, the festival offers a variety of events, including sales of local products, a yatai village (food stall area), and nighttime cherry blossom fireworks. The collaboration between the vast ranch and the cherry blossoms is a truly stunning sight! Ranch's Cherry Blossoms, where history and nature harmoniously blend, will surely create unforgettable memories.