The Yoshino River, known as the 'Seiryū' or Blue Dragon River, runs the full width of Tokushima Prefecture and its embankments are planted with hundreds of Somei Yoshino trees that form spectacular blossom tunnels in early April. Local operators offer small-boat cruises from Yoshinogawa city that glide beneath overhanging cherry branches with petals drifting onto the water's surface. The contrast of snow-white rapids, blue-green river water, and pastel-pink blossom is unique in Shikoku. The surrounding riverside parks also host informal hanami gatherings and cycling events during peak bloom.
- Type
- Experience
- Category
- Cherry Blossom
- Season
- Spring
- Month
- Early April
- Region
- Shikoku
- Prefecture
- Tokushima
- City
- Yoshinogawa
Highlights
- ◆Boat cruise beneath overhanging cherry blossom tunnels
- ◆Dramatic contrast of white rapids and pink petals on blue-green water
- ◆Riverside cycling paths lined with Somei Yoshino trees
- ◆One of Shikoku's longest continuous cherry-blossom embankments
- ◆Local bento and sakura sake available from riverside stalls