2025.1.31
6 cherry blossom viewing spots in Otaru, featuring popular cherry blossom viewing spots for spring sightseeing in Otaru.
In Hokkaido, cherry blossoms usually begin blooming in mid-April and are in full bloom from early May during Golden Week. In Hokkaido, which is rich in nature, you can enjoy different cherry blossom viewing attractions in different areas. Here, we would like to introduce some of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Otaru, where the contrast between the blue sea and pink cherry blossoms is very beautiful.
■Temiya Park
This is a large park representing Otaru overlooking Otaru Port. The park maintains a large number of cherry trees, including the Ezo-Yamazakura cherry tree, which is native only to Hokkaido, and the Somei-Yoshino cherry tree, a representative species of cherry tree. The park also contains the Temiya Arboretum, where you can easily enjoy the nature of Hokkaido, including a Japanese garden and a button garden, in addition to the cherry blossom garden. The park is very easy to visit for sightseeing.
Address: 2-5 Temiya, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido
Web site: https://www.city.otaru.lg.jp/docs/2020111600690/
■Otaru Park
This park is located in the center of Otaru City and is a place of relaxation for many citizens. Visitors can enjoy approximately 650 cherry trees, including Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees, which are native to the mountains of Hokkaido, and double-flowered cherry trees with overlapping petals. There are many facilities in the park, and visitors can enjoy the Japanese garden and rows of cherry trees. Many plants, such as azaleas, the flower of Otaru City, and wisteria trellises, are planted in the park and can be enjoyed in any season.
In addition, the Otaru City Public Hall in the park houses a stage for Noh, a traditional Japanese performing art, which can be viewed inside (please check the Otaru City website for open days). You can learn about the profound Japanese culture.
Address: 5-3 Hanazono, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido
Web site: https://www.city.otaru.lg.jp/docs/2020111600478/
■Suitengu Shrine
Suitengu Shrine is located on the south side of Otaru’s famous Sakai-cho Street, a famous sightseeing street. This historical shrine, which has remained from the pioneer days of Hokkaido, is characterized by its beautiful symmetrical shrine pavilions and large “komainu” (guardian dogs). At night, the shrine grounds are illuminated, allowing visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms at night.
Address: 3-1 Aioi-cho, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido
Web site: https://hokkaidojinjacho.jp/%E6%B0%B4%E5%A4%A9%E5%AE%AE-2/
■Otaru Tenguyama
At the top of Mt. Tengu, there is a single cherry tree called “Tengu-zakura,” which is over 100 years old and very popular among tourists as a photo spot. It is said to be the late blooming cherry tree in Otaru, and together with the night view, it is a sightseeing spot worth seeing. A ropeway operates from the foot of the mountain, offering a panoramic view of Otaru City and a variety of activities throughout the year.
Address: 2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido
Web site: https://tenguyama.ckk.chuo-bus.co.jp/top-smr/
■JR Minami Otaru Station
Minami Otaru Station, located one station in front of JR Otaru Station, is a small station but famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms. The view of cherry blossoms from the station platform looks like a scene from an anime or movie. It is also close to the famous sightseeing spots “Mercure Crossing” and “Sumiyoshi Shrine,” making it an ideal course for walking around Otaru.
Address: 10-7 Sumiyoshi-cho, Otaru-shi, Otaru
■Tenjoji Temple
Tenjoji Temple is a Jodo sect temple located in Irifune, Otaru City. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, a beautiful row of cherry trees can be seen from the entrance of the temple grounds to the main hall. The combination of the temple hall and cherry blossoms offers a uniquely Japanese scene.
Address: 4-31-1 Irifune, Otaru-shi, Otaru
Web site: https://www.otaru-tenjoji.com/