Iwataro's Weeping Cherry Blossoms

Iwataro's Weeping Cherry Blossom is named after the person who planted this magnificent tree in the Hagiwara-cho district of Gero City, Gifu Prefecture. The gigantic tree is estimated to be over 120 years old and stands as one of the representative cherry blossom viewing spots in the region. The tree belongs to the weeping cherry variety, characterized by its cascading branches that droop downward in an elegant arc, creating a stunning natural canopy during peak bloom.

The tree stands halfway up an embankment, and during full bloom, its branches spread so extensively that they cover passersby walking beneath. This unique positioning creates an immersive viewing experience that has made it a beloved landmark in Gero City. The tree has sister cherry trees planted at nearby locations including Moriyama Shrine, Eiyo-ji Temple, and Kensei-ji Temple, allowing visitors to enjoy a walking tour between multiple weeping cherry trees in the area.

Viewing Iwataro's cherry blossoms offers a particularly intimate experience. When standing directly beneath the tree, visitors can enjoy the sensation of being showered by cherry blossoms as they look upward through the cascading branches. The tree blooms during the typical cherry blossom season in this region, generally from late March through mid-April, though exact timing varies with weather conditions each year.

The tree is located in Hagiwara-cho, Shimi, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture. Gero City is positioned in central Gifu Prefecture, approximately 90 minutes from Nagoya by train. From Nagoya or Gifu City, visitors can take the JR Takayama Line to Gero Station. The journey from Nagoya takes approximately 90 minutes, while from Gifu City it requires just over 60 minutes. The Iwataro cherry tree is accessible from Gero Station, and visitors traveling to this area can combine their cherry blossom viewing with exploration of Gero Onsen, one of Japan's three most famous hot spring resorts. The site has free admission and is accessible to the public during daylight hours.