21 Best Cherry Blossom Spots to Visit in Kyushu in Spring, When the Region Is Painted in Pink

The castle was built over 7 years starting in 1601 by Kuroda Yoshitaka (Kanbei) and his son Nagamasa.
Throughout the Edo period, it served as the residence of the Kuroda clan, lords of the Fukuoka Domain, and was also known as "Maizuru Castle."
It is said to have been one of the largest castles in Kyushu, with large, medium, and small keeps and 47 turrets.
Approx. 480,000 square meters centered on the honmaru (main bailey), ninomaru (second bailey), and sannomaru (third bailey) are designated as a National Historic Site.
The honmaru through the sannomaru now form Maizuru Park, while the former outer moat has been developed as Ohori Park. Ohori Park is a popular local getaway where people gather to jog and walk.
In the peak cherry blossom season, Approx. 1,000 trees of 19 varieties color every corner of the grounds.
You can enjoy cherry blossoms in many settings, including turrets and blossoms, the moat and blossoms, and castle gates and blossoms—there’s always something new to discover as you wander.
After sunset, the area is lit up, creating a completely different atmosphere from daytime.
It’s a spot where you’ll want to take your time and really savor the cherry blossoms.

Nishi Park, home to Approx. 1,300 cherry trees, spreads across hilly terrain of Approx. 170,000 square meters.
Although it sits in the central district of Fukuoka City, it still preserves rich, beautiful nature.
From the observation deck, sweeping views of downtown Fukuoka, Hakata Bay, and Shika Island unfold below.
Well-maintained walking paths make it easy to explore, even though the park is large.
It is the only spot in Fukuoka Prefecture selected for the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan," and cherry trees bloom throughout the grounds. The harmony of the scenery and blossoms as seen from the observation deck is especially stunning.
After sunset, the trees are illuminated for nighttime cherry blossom viewing.
Be sure to enjoy the blossoms’ glamorous look under the lights, so different from their daytime charm.

Kamado Shrine has a history of over 1,350 years. It enshrines Tamayorihime-no-Mikoto and has long been worshipped as a deity of matchmaking and relationships.
It is also revered as a shrine for warding off misfortune and evil influences.
At the 2,720-foot (829-meter) summit of Mount Homan stands the Upper Shrine of Kamado Shrine. It takes Approx. 2 hours one way to reach it, and the mountain is a popular destination for many hikers.
The cherry blossoms on Mount Homan have been loved by people since ancient times, and the area is still famous today as a top cherry blossom viewing spot.
The shrine crest of Homan-gu Kamado Shrine also features cherry blossoms, showing their deep connection.
In spring, the solemn grounds are beautifully decorated with white and pink Somei Yoshino and wild yamazakura cherry trees—an unforgettable sight.
When the Approx. 300 cherry trees are in full bloom, a Sakura Festival is held with mini concerts and food stalls to enjoy.
After sunset, the illuminated cherry blossoms and shrine grounds take on a mystical atmosphere you won’t want to miss.

Standing at Approx. 284 m, Kagamiyama is located in Karatsu and is known for its flat, trapezoid-shaped summit.
It is a beloved symbol of Karatsu City among locals.
Observation decks on the west and east sides offer sweeping views of Nijino Matsubara, Karatsu Bay, and the islands scattered across the water.
In spring, Approx. 5,000 cherry trees add vivid color to this beautiful landscape.
Along the Approx. 4 km hiking trail, a tunnel of cherry blossoms appears, creating a dazzling welcome for hikers.
Sitting under the blossoms and gazing up at the flowers at a relaxed pace is also recommended.
A hike while viewing cherry blossoms promises an experience that feels truly refreshing.

This garden was created in 1845 (Kōka 2) over three years by Nabeshima Shigeyoshi, the 28th lord of the Takeo domain of the Nabeshima clan, using the cliffs of Mifuneyama, a symbol of Takeo, as borrowed scenery.
It is a strolling garden with a large pond, covering a vast area equivalent to Approx. 10 Tokyo Domes, or Approx. 150,000 tsubo.
Hundreds of thousands of plants are planted throughout the grounds, and it is always lively as a famous spot where seasonal flowers bloom in profusion.
Approx. 2,000 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino, Oshima-zakura, and double-flowered varieties, bloom here, making spring an especially popular time for visitors.
Strolling through the garden where cherry blossoms bloom in various locations lets you fully immerse yourself in the spirit of spring.
During the peak blossom season, one of the largest nighttime cherry blossom events in Kyushu is held, and the scattered cherry trees across the grounds are beautifully illuminated.
The reflection of the lit-up blossoms and cliffs on the pond’s surface creates a wabi-sabi atmosphere you won’t want to miss.

Asahigaoka Park in Kashima has been selected as one of the “100 Historical Parks of Japan” and the entire park area once formed Kashima Castle.
Although Kashima Castle itself was destroyed by fire, its stone walls and samurai residences remain.
The Red Gate, which served as the main gate of Kashima Castle, is designated as an important cultural property of the prefecture.
A shrine stands within the park, and together with the beautifully maintained scenery, there is plenty to see.
It is also known as one of the three major cherry blossom spots in Saga, and during the peak season, the scenery is said to offer “5,000 trees at a glance.”
It is also known as the first cherry blossom spot in Kyushu to be illuminated at night.

Saikaibashi Park is a prefectural park that stretches across Sasebo City and Saikai City, with a total area of 36.8 hectares.
Its vast grounds include an athletic field and a softball field, and are always lively with local families and tourists.
The observation deck offers sweeping views and is a popular photo spot.
At the strait of Inoura Seto, spanned by two bridges, you may be able to see the park’s biggest highlight: the whirling tides.
In spring, the park turns into a renowned cherry blossom spot where you can admire the blossoms with the whirlpools in the background.
About 1,000 cherry trees bloom within the park, creating an elegant scene where pale pink blossoms stand out against the green trees and the sea.
In the evening, paper lanterns are lit, and the glowing cherry blossoms take on a bewitching beauty.

This park is laid out on high ground on Fukushima Island, which is connected to Matsuura City in Nagasaki Prefecture by a large bridge.
From the observation deck, you can look out over the islands scattered across Imari Bay, the deep blue sea, and, in spring, a carpet of cherry blossoms below. The blossoms are especially beautiful in season, drawing many visitors from outside the prefecture as well.
Approx. 500 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura varieties, are planted in the park. The contrast between the full-bloom blossoms and the blue sea is breathtaking.
The trees are illuminated at night during the blooming period, creating a magical night-time cherry blossom view.
Around 40 Jugatsuzakura (October cherry trees), which bloom partially around October, are also planted here, so you can enjoy cherry blossoms twice a year.

Shimabara Castle is a white castle keep standing on a hill called Moritake in Shimabara City.
Construction began in 1618 under Shigemasa Matsukura, Lord of Bungo, and was completed in Approx. seven years.
The castle was modeled after the Azuchi-Momoyama period style of castle construction. The main compound features a five-story, 33-meter-high keep, with the second and third baileys to the north and large and small turrets placed at key points.
A moat surrounds the castle, and the stone walls rise vertically in gentle curves. Even after 400 years, they retain much of their original appearance.
Each spring, this historic landmark is adorned with cherry blossoms.
The white castle walls and Approx. 250 pale pink cherry trees create a soft, fleeting landscape.
The cherry blossoms illuminated by lanterns at night are another highlight, offering a gentler, more delicate view of the trees.

Oka Castle was built in 1185 on a plateau 325 m above sea level along the riverbank.
Thanks to its sheer cliffs and stone walls, it was easy to defend. Despite being attacked many times by large armies, it was never captured and became known as an impregnable famous castle.
The castle was decommissioned in the Meiji era (1868-1912), and its buildings were demolished, but the stone walls and gates remain.
The powerful yet graceful stone walls still convey the legacy of a stronghold once praised as impossible to conquer.
Selected as one of the “Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan,” the grounds are planted with Approx. 450 cherry trees.
The rugged, beautiful stone walls make the blossoms stand out even more.
Strolling through the site offers a deep sense of history along with the beauty of the sakura.

Yufuin Oitagawa Riverside Cherry Blossom Avenue is located Approx. a 5-minute walk from the popular hot spring town of Yufuin Onsen.
With Mount Yufu as a backdrop, around 50 cherry trees stretch over the riverside promenade, while a carpet of rapeseed blossoms spreads out nearby.
The cherries and rapeseed flowers usually reach their peak at the same time, creating a truly vibrant spring scene.
The view of Yufuin Oitagawa Riverside Cherry Blossom Avenue from Miyuki Bridge, a 5-minute walk from Yufuin Station, is especially beautiful.

Usuki Castle Ruins stand in the city of Usuki.
The castle was built in 1562 by a feudal lord (a samurai who governed a large domain) who had converted to Christianity.
It originally rose on a small offshore island, taking advantage of the terrain as a natural fortress.
Although the area has since been reclaimed, traces of this remain in the surrounding cliffs.
The castle was decommissioned in the Meiji era, and only the turrets and stone walls survive today, yet the site is cherished as a famous cherry blossom spot where around 600 trees burst into bloom.
The stone walls and turrets perched on the cliffs, framed by flowering cherry trees, create a deeply atmospheric scene.
After sunset, look out over the castle town from Daimon Turret to see illuminated cherry blossoms floating in the night, like a painting come to life.
Stroll through the magical grounds after dusk and be sure to make your way up to Daimon Turret.

Jagatani Park is located in Tamana City, Approx. a 10-minute walk from Tamana Onsen.
Set amid rich greenery, its expansive grounds of Approx. 20 hectares include fully equipped sports facilities such as tennis courts.
With plenty of open spaces and play equipment like roller slides, it is also a great place for families.
In spring, Approx. 1,500 cherry trees reach their peak, filling the park with color.
The blossoms can be admired from very close up, making it an excellent photo spot.
Walk along the promenade where the cherry trees form a tunnel overhead to really soak up the spirit of spring.
As evening falls, the blossoms are gently lit by lanterns, giving the park a quietly solemn atmosphere.

Located in Kikuchi City, Kikuchi Park is a favorite local hangout with large playground equipment, a lawn field, tennis courts, and more.
Approx. 3,000 cherry trees grow in the park, drawing large crowds of hanami visitors when they reach full bloom.
It is known as one of the top cherry blossom spots in Kumamoto Prefecture and is also popular with photographers.
Classic Somei Yoshino trees bloom throughout the grounds, their white and pink petals standing out beautifully against the blue sky on clear days. The combination of cherry blossoms and rape blossoms is also a must-see.
Even though many people come for hanami, the park is spacious and the trees are spread out, so it is easy to find a quiet place to enjoy the blossoms.
At night, the park is illuminated, creating a magical scene of cherry blossoms glowing against the dark sky.

The Approx. 5 km avenue of cherry trees near the Yatsushiro Sea, also known as the Shiranui Sea, is called the Yunoko Cherry Line and is located in Minamata City.
It is a popular driving route where you can enjoy cherry blossoms with the sea as a backdrop, lined with around 500 cherry trees along the road.
Spots where you can see both the cherry blossoms and the sea at the same time are rare, and the refreshing view of the blue sea with pink and white blossoms is truly special.
Nearby, there are hanami spots where you can park and take time to enjoy the cherry blossoms, so be sure to stop by as well.
If you go a bit farther, you will find an observation deck that offers even more expansive views.
When the cherry blossoms reach their peak, sightseeing boats for viewing the blossoms operate from Yunoko Onsen, letting you admire the flowers from an unforgettable vantage point on the water.

Takajo Kannonike Park covers 63 hectares and includes a hot spring facility, campground, pool, Ferris wheel, and open spaces.
Located in Miyakonojo City, it feels more like a full-fledged leisure complex than a simple park.
It is popular with tourists who want to enjoy seasonal flowers and outdoor fun, as well as with local families.
There are many ways to spend your time here, but in spring you can enjoy a spectacular view created by Approx. 5,000 cherry trees.
Around 50,000 azaleas also come into bloom at roughly the same time as the cherry blossoms.
Throughout the park you will find a variety of scenes, including azaleas and cherry blossoms together, blossoms surrounding the historic Edo-period Ishiyama Kannonike, and views of the Ferris wheel with cherry trees.
It is the perfect place for travelers who want to enjoy both leisure activities and hanami.

Mochio Park in Miyakonojo is known as one of Miyazaki’s top cherry blossom spots.
It is listed among the “100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan,” and during the peak season around 2,600 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Yaezakura, burst into bloom.
The Approx. 2 km cherry tree avenue leading up to Mochio Shrine on the hill is breathtakingly beautiful.
From Mochio Shrine, don’t miss the view looking down over the avenue, like a pale pink carpet of blossoms.
During the cherry blossom season, the Miyakono Mochio Cherry Blossom Festival is held, where you can enjoy traditional folk performances that have been passed down in the region.

At the Saitobaru Burial Mounds in Saito, Miyazaki Prefecture, more than 300 burial mounds are scattered across a vast 58-hectare area. These tombs for ancient rulers were built from the mid-3rd to around the 7th century.
Designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan, this is one of the largest burial mound clusters in the country and a major sightseeing spot representing Miyazaki.
Around 2,000 cherry trees and 300,000 rapeseed blossoms bloom where these ancient leaders rest.
The contrast of the yellow rapeseed field, spreading like a carpet, and the pale pink cherry blossoms creates a spectacular spring view.
It offers a slightly unusual experience: enjoying magnificent spring scenery in a place steeped in ancient history.

Tadamoto Park in Isa, Kagoshima is the only place in the prefecture selected as one of the “100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan.”
An Approx. 2 km avenue of cherry trees runs through the park, forming a beautiful tunnel of around 700 trees, mainly Somei Yoshino. Thanks to their high density, the trees are affectionately called “Senbonzakura” (a thousand cherry trees).
During the peak season, after sunset the trees are lit up by Approx. 1,000 paper lanterns.
This romantic tunnel of illuminated blossoms is perfect for couples enjoying hanami at night.

Sengan-en is a Japanese garden created in 1658 by Shimazu Mitsuhisa as a villa for the Shimazu clan. It covers a spacious 50,000 square meters.
It is a “borrowed scenery” garden that incorporates Kagoshima’s grand landscape, with Sakurajima representing an artificial hill and Kinko Bay representing a pond.
Reflecting the Shimazu clan’s trade with China through the Ryukyu Kingdom, the garden also shows influences of Chinese culture.
Around 150 cherry trees of about five varieties, including Taiwan cherry, are planted in the garden and start blooming in early February.
Cherry blossoms framed by majestic Sakurajima create a spring view that is uniquely Kagoshima.
With several varieties in bloom, you can enjoy cherry blossoms here over a relatively long season.

Takaoka Park is located in Kajiki, Aira City.
Because it sits at an elevation of 155 meters, the observation deck in the park offers sweeping views of Kagoshima’s symbols, Sakurajima and Kinko Bay.
In spring, around 300 cherry trees color this spectacular scenery, making it a popular cherry blossom spot.
Enjoy the wide-open view with nothing to block your gaze.
After sunset, the illuminated cherry trees create a magical nighttime scene.