Kumagaya Sakura Tsutsumi

Kumagaya Sakura Tsutsumi stands as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, recognized by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association for its exceptional beauty and cultural importance. This renowned hanami destination has attracted visitors for 400 years, establishing its reputation as a famous cherry blossom spot since the Edo period (1603-1868). The site's enduring popularity stems from its dramatic display of around 500 Yoshino Cherry Blossom trees that create a stunning pink canopy along the 2-kilometer stretch of the Arakawa riverbank.

The natural spectacle occurs when the Someiyoshino variety dominates the landscape, offering soft pink blossoms that create a cloud-like effect over the walking paths. During peak bloom, typically from the end of March to the beginning of April, visitors witness the light pink sakuras bloom around the same time as the bright yellow rape blossoms, creating a beautiful contrast against the vivid blue sky. The cherry trees form a beautiful tunnel of cherry blossoms spanning two kilometers that transforms the riverbank into one of Japan's most photographed spring landscapes.

Visitors can experience the blossoms from multiple perspectives, including the view from the top of the bank and walking directly through the cherry blossom tunnel. Here, you can stroll along the river or enjoy a picnic while enjoying the cherry trees. The annual Kumagaya Cherry Blossom Festival held from late March to early April enhances the experience with outdoor food stalls and special events, including hot air balloon rides, weather permitting, during select festival days.

Access to Kumagaya Sakura Tsutsumi is remarkably convenient, with the site located just a five-minute walk from Kumagaya Station. Kumagaya Station is served by the JR East Jōetsu Shinkansen and Hokuriku Shinkansen high-speed shinkansen lines from Tokyo, the Takasaki Line, and Shonan-Shinjuku, Ueno-Tokyo and Chichibu lines. The best way to get to Kumagaya Station by train is to take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. The station is located 64.7 kilometers from Tokyo, making it easily accessible for day trips from the capital. No admission fee is required to view the cherry blossoms, as this is a public riverside park along the Arakawa River.