Guide
The Kubozakura of Isazawa is an incredibly historic Edohigan cherry tree located in Nagai City, Yamagata Prefecture, with a legendary age of approximately 1,200 years. Designated as a National Natural Monument, it is renowned as one of the most significant ancient cherry trees in the Tohoku region. Its overwhelming presence invites visitors into a deep sense of history.
In the past, its branches were said to spread across an area of 40 ares, earning it the name "Yon-tan Sakura." Today, dedicated conservation efforts are underway to restore its vitality amidst environmental changes and the challenges of its extreme age. The sight of its light pink blossoms blooming alongside surrounding Somei Yoshino trees creates a scene of pure natural artistry.
This cherry tree is the setting for a poignant legend involving the Seii Taishogun, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, and a local woman named "Otama." According to folklore, Otama was deeply devoted to Tamuramaro during his visit to this land. It is said that after her passing, Tamuramoro planted this cherry tree as a memorial to her, which is why the tree is also affectionately known as "Otama-zakura."
Furthermore, historical records from the Edo period note that the lords of the Yonezawa Clan would visit this tree. The landscape was so highly regarded that the land beneath the cherry blossoms was treated as tax-free land until the Meiji Restoration. This makes the tree much more than a mere plant; it is a vital cultural heritage deeply intertwined with local history and legend.
The greatest marvel is the sheer scale of the tree, reaching a height of approximately 13.85m and a trunk circumference of about 8.1m. Due to fire damage and natural aging over the centuries, the tree is currently supported by several sturdy pillars. The unique shape, which can look like multiple trees at first glance, is a result of ongoing "vitality restoration work."
Since 2006, large-scale specialized