The Yorimo River parkway near Usa Jingu, one of Japan's most important Hachiman shrines, becomes a tunnel of cherry blossoms each spring as hundreds of Somei Yoshino trees arch over the waterway. The reflections of pink petals on the calm river surface are a favourite subject for photographers, and the nearby shrine precincts add a spiritual dimension to the stroll. Local hanami markets and boat-viewing on the river make this an intimate alternative to larger Kyushu festivals. Usa's relatively warm climate means blooms often arrive ahead of the regional average.
- Type
- Experience
- Category
- Cherry Blossom
- Season
- Spring
- Month
- Late March to Early April
- Region
- Kyushu
- Prefecture
- Oita
- City
- Usa
Highlights
- ◆Cherry blossom tunnel over the Yorimo River
- ◆Proximity to the historic Usa Jingu shrine
- ◆Petal reflections on calm river water
- ◆Intimate local hanami atmosphere
- ◆Early spring bloom timing for Kyushu