Asahi Funagawa "Spring Quartet"

The Asahi Funagawa "Spring Quartet" represents one of Japan's most spectacular seasonal displays, combining four distinct natural elements in a single breathtaking panorama. Located in Asahi Town, Toyama Prefecture, this celebrated attraction features cherry blossoms, colorful tulips, bright yellow nanohana (rapeseed flowers), and the snow-capped peaks of the Northern Alps including Mt. Shirouma and Mt. Asahi as a dramatic backdrop. The phenomenon earned its poetic name from these four complementary spring elements that bloom simultaneously along the Funagawa River.

In 1957, the local community planted Yoshino cherry trees along the Funagawa River, establishing the foundation for today's spectacular display. Over 280 trees carefully maintained by the locals lined up on both banks for 1200 meters create a stunning cherry blossom tunnel that reflects beautifully in the clear river waters. Local farmers in the Funagawashin area deliberately plant the accompanying flowers each year to complement the cherry trees, demonstrating decades of community dedication to this natural artistry.

The cultural significance extends beyond mere aesthetics, as the Spring Quartet represents the harmonious relationship between local agricultural traditions and natural beauty. The coordinated blooming creates a living artwork that celebrates both the season's arrival and the community's agricultural heritage. The backdrop of 2,418-meter Mt. Asahi adds dramatic scale and emphasizes the region's position at the intersection of mountain and valley landscapes.

Visitors experience this natural symphony through leisurely walks along the 1,200-meter riverside path, where the cherry blossom canopy frames views of colorful tulip fields and golden rapeseed flowers against the silver peaks of the Japanese Alps. Photography enthusiasts find countless vantage points for capturing the interplay of colors and textures. On the evening of April 8th from 7pm until 9pm, bonfires will also be lit along the riverbank to illuminate the sakura trees, creating an atmospheric night viewing experience. The event typically runs for two weeks during April when all four elements reach peak bloom simultaneously.

Admission to the event is free of charge. You can park your car at Asahi General Hospital area, and from there you can take a free shuttle bus during peak periods. There are shuttle buses from Tomari Station during the event period, providing convenient rail access for visitors without private transportation. The site is located in Shimoshinkawa-gun, Toyama Prefecture, easily accessible via the Hokuriku Expressway. Weekend visitors should expect parking restrictions near the viewing area, making the free shuttle service from designated parking locations the recommended transport option.