Guida
Miharu Takizakura is a variety of Shidarezakura (weeping cherry) located in Miharu Town, Tamura District, Fukushima Prefecture, with an estimated age exceeding 1,000 years. Designated as a National Natural Monument, it is celebrated as one of the Three Great Cherry Trees of Japan. It is affectionately known as 'Takizakura' (Waterfall Cherry) because the pale pink blossoms cascade from its wide-spreading branches, creating the appearance of a falling waterfall. Every spring, it attracts visitors from across the country to witness this iconic landscape.
The history of this cherry tree is deeply rooted in literature; its name was already well-known through the poetry of Kamo Kisutaka during the Tenpo era. Historically, it was carefully protected as a tree for the Miharu clan lords. Today, the tree continues to be preserved and managed by Miharu Town as a vital natural heritage site. Interestingly, the tree has international connections, with saplings planted in various parts of the world, including Taiwan, Poland, Hungary, and Austria.
The most spectacular sight is the way the blossoms flow like a 'waterfall,' as the name suggests. With a height of approximately 12 meters and a branch spread of about 22 meters, the tree possesses an overwhelming presence. During the spring blooming season, the layers of pale pink petals provide a stunning visual experience. Additionally, during certain periods, the tree is illuminated at night, offering a mystical and ethereal view against the darkness.
The peak season is typically from mid-to-late April. During the daytime, the bright light makes the colors of the cascading flowers appear vivid and clear. At night, there are illumination events where you can stay until around 20:30. Please note that the collection of admission fees and the operation of shuttle buses may vary depending on the year and the actual blooming-status, so it is highly recommended to check the latest information before visiting.
Around the Miharu Takizakura, you can enjoy peaceful walks in nature. To support the protection and tourism of the cherry tree, an admission fee is collected based on local ordinances. Visitors can also explore routes that include local facilities such as the 'Sakura Park' or the 'Miharu Dam Museum.' Observing the silhouette of this ancient giant tree amidst the gentle spring air is a quintessential way to experience the essence of a Japanese spring.
The area around the waterfall cherry includes facilities like the Miharu Dam Museum and the Miharu Sato Den'en Seikatsukan. During the peak season, temporary buses (the 'Takizakura-go') may operate from Miharu Station. You can use these to explore routes through the dam embankment or around nearby parks. As this is a residential area, please be careful not to enter private property or farmland.
Please prepare cash for the admission fee. There is currently no system for pre-purchasing electronic tickets.
English-language signage and staff support may be limited in the local area.
No advanced reservations are required, but the area can become very crowded depending on the blooming status, so please allow plenty of travel time. Since temperatures can fluctuate in the spring, wearing layers that are easy to adjust is recommended.
The area around the cherry tree contains many private lands and farms. When taking photos or walking around, please respect local rules: do not enter private property, do not park on the roadside, take your trash home, and do not collect wild plants.
Please note that some shuttle buses (between Miharu Station and the Takizakura Large Parking Lot) may not be wheelchair accessible. Please check availability in advance.