Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue Complete Guide｜Hokkaido’s Finest Cherry Blossom Viewing Destination
The Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue in Shinhidaka Town, Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots, featuring over 2,200 cherry trees lining a straight 7km road. Selected as one of “Japan’s Hundred Finest Roads,” “Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots,” and designated as “Hokkaido Heritage,” it attracts approximately 100,000 visitors from across the nation each year during early May. This article comprehensively covers everything you need to know before visiting, including the history, highlights, best viewing season, and access methods to the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue.
Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue｜The Appeal of Japan’s Finest Cherry Blossom Avenue
The Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue stretches approximately 7km along a straight road lined with over 2,200 cherry trees, extending from Shizunairo Tahara to Shizunairo Misono in Hidaka District, Shinhidaka Town, Hokkaido. The name derives from the width between the cherry trees on both sides of the road being precisely twenty-ken (approximately 36 meters).
Overwhelming Scale
The sight of over 2,200 cherry trees standing in neat rows on both sides of a straight road is truly spectacular. Boasting one of Japan’s finest scales, this cherry blossom avenue creates a unique landscape unrivaled by other cherry blossom viewing spots. The cherry tree tunnel stretching as far as the eye can see provides visitors with an unforgettable emotional experience.
Three Prestigious Designations
The Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue’s value is widely recognized, having been selected for the following three designations:
- Japan’s Hundred Finest Roads: Recognized as a road with beautiful scenery and historical significance
- Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots: Selected as one of Japan’s representative cherry blossom viewing destinations
- Hokkaido Heritage: Registered as Hokkaido’s treasure to be passed on to future generations
These designations prove that the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue holds value not merely as a tourist destination, but as a cultural heritage of Japan.
History of Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue｜An Imperial Inspection Route Built for the Imperial Family
The history of the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue dates back to the Meiji era. This location housed the Imperial Household Ministry’s imperial pasture, and the road was developed as an imperial inspection route for visits by members of the imperial family.
A Major Undertaking in the Taisho Era
Over a three-year period beginning in Taisho 5 (1916), cherry trees including Yezo wild cherry, mist cherry, and alpine cherry were transplanted from nearby mountains. This large-scale transplantation project was groundbreaking for the era and was realized through the efforts of many people.
Most of the transplanted cherry trees have now become old trees exceeding 90 years in age, yet they continue to produce beautiful blossoms each year. These historically significant cherry trees continue to move people across generations.
From Imperial Pasture to Tourist Attraction
This location, which once functioned as an Imperial Household Ministry pasture, has undergone transformation through the passage of time to become a major tourist destination representing Hokkaido. Today, it is managed by Shinhidaka Town and carefully protected as a community treasure.
Characteristics of Ezo Wild Cherry｜The Charm of Hokkaido Cherry Blossoms
Approximately 70% of the cherry trees lining the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue are Ezo wild cherry. Unlike the common Somei Yoshino found in mainland Japan, this cherry variety possesses distinctive characteristics that create the unique charm of Hokkaido’s cherry viewing spots.
Characteristics of Ezo Wild Cherry
The Ezo wild cherry is characterized by flowers and leaves opening simultaneously. The beautiful contrast between pale pink petals and reddish-brown young leaves provides an aesthetic different from Somei Yoshino. With five petals each, the flowers are modest in size yet convey a powerful impression.
Diverse Cherry Varieties
Besides Ezo wild cherry, the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue features multiple varieties including mist cherry, alpine cherry, and double-flowered cherry. This diversity enables visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms over an extended period.
Peak Viewing Season and Best Time｜Early May is Peak Season
The cherry blossoms at the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue typically reach peak bloom in early May. Since Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms bloom later than those in mainland Japan, the Golden Week period offers the most beautiful time to visit.
From Blooming to Full Bloom
Typically, blooming begins in late April, with peak bloom occurring in early May. However, the blooming period varies based on that year’s weather conditions, so checking the latest flowering information before your visit is recommended.
Peak Viewing Period
The period from full bloom to the beginning of petal fall lasts approximately one to two weeks. During this short period, many visitors from across the nation flock to the site, so crowding is especially anticipated on weekends. Visiting on weekdays or during early morning hours allows for a more leisurely cherry blossom viewing experience.
Shizunairo Cherry Blossom Festival｜An Event Celebrating the Cherry Blossom Avenue
The “Shizunairo Cherry Blossom Festival” is held annually in conjunction with peak cherry blossom season. This event further highlights the charm of the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue and provides visitors with special experiences.
Main Festival Activities
During the festival period, numerous food stalls line the venue, offering Hokkaido cuisine and specialty products. Dishes and sweets made from local ingredients, as well as crafts, are sold, allowing visitors to fully experience both cherry blossom viewing and Hokkaido’s attractions.
Night Cherry Blossom Illumination
During select dates throughout the festival, nighttime cherry blossom illumination is provided. The illuminated cherry blossom avenue displays extraordinary beauty in an atmosphere distinctly different from daytime viewing.
Special Opening of Ryuun-kaku
“Ryuun-kaku,” a building from the former imperial pasture, stands near the middle of the cherry blossom avenue. During the festival period, the building’s interior is opened to the public, allowing visitors to enjoy the collaboration between this historic structure and the cherry blossoms.
Notable Viewing Spots on Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue
Along the 7km cherry blossom avenue, particularly beautiful photo spots and viewing points are scattered throughout.
Flower Tunnel
A narrow gravel path called “Flower Tunnel” runs beside the main street. The cherry tree colonnade, which arches overhead on both sides, creates the sensation of walking within a cherry blossom canopy, making it a popular spot.
Panoramic View of the Straight Road
From near the entrance of the cherry blossom avenue, one can take in a complete view of the seemingly endless straight road lined with cherry blossoms. This scenery, symbolizing the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue, is a must-see point attracting many photography enthusiasts.
Area Around Ryuun-kaku
The area surrounding Ryuun-kaku, a historic structure, presents beautiful contrast between the building and the cherry blossoms. The landscape created by the Meiji and Taisho era architecture and full-bloom cherry blossoms provides the sensation of stepping back in time.
Various Commemorative Monuments
Along the avenue are stone markers for “Japan’s Hundred Finest Roads” and “Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots,” as well as a commemorative monument for “Hokkaido Heritage.” Walking among these monuments allows visitors to reaffirm the value and history of the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue.
Enjoying the Avenue｜From Driving to Strolling
The Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue can be enjoyed in various ways. Choose the method that best suits your style and available time.
Enjoying via Automobile Drive
Driving through the cherry blossom avenue is a convenient way to enjoy the cherry blossoms. While driving along the 7km straight road, visitors can fully appreciate the cherry blossom scenery through car windows. However, traffic regulations may be implemented during the festival period, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Leisurely Walking Tour
Parking your vehicle and taking a leisurely walking tour is recommended. Feeling the fragrance of cherry blossoms while observing every detail of their beauty is possible. While walking the entire 7km length is demanding, even touring a portion will suffice to appreciate the avenue’s charm.
Cycling
Cycling with a rental bicycle is also popular. This method allows covering a broader area more efficiently than walking while enjoying the cherry blossoms with the sensation of breeze. During the festival period, bicycle rental services may be available near the venue.
Photography
For photography enthusiasts, the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue is an ideal shooting location. The avenue displays different characteristics depending on time of day—soft light at dawn, vibrant colors during daytime, and fantastical atmosphere at dusk—offering new discoveries with each visit.
Recently, aerial photography using drones has gained attention. The magnificent scale of the cherry blossom avenue viewed from above provides an entirely different emotional impact compared to ground-level viewing.
Access Methods｜Getting There from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport
Accessing the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue is most convenient by car, though public transportation is also available.
By Automobile
From Sapporo: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes using the Dou-o Expressway. Exit at Tomakomai-Higashi and proceed via National Route 235 to Shinhidaka Town.
From New Chitose Airport: Approximately 2 hours via National Routes 36 and 235.
During the cherry blossom festival period, temporary parking facilities are established. Parking fees are approximately 500 yen for regular vehicles (varies annually). Parking lots may reach capacity on weekends and during peak bloom, so arriving early is recommended.
By Public Transportation
From Sapporo Station, take a limited express train for approximately 2 hours to Shizunairo Station. From the station, proceed approximately 20 minutes by route bus or taxi. During the festival period, temporary shuttle buses may operate between Shizunairo Station and the venue.
Tour Package Option
Many day-trip bus tours departing from Sapporo are available. This option eliminates driving concerns and enables efficient sightseeing with professional guides, making it recommended for first-time visitors or those uncomfortable driving.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions｜The Charm of Shinhidaka Town
Visiting surrounding attractions while viewing the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue allows for a deeper appreciation of Shinhidaka Town’s appeal.
Shizunairo Onsen (Hot Spring)
After cherry blossom viewing, relaxing at Shizunairo Onsen to ease fatigue is recommended. Day-use bathing facilities are available to refresh from travel fatigue.
Niikappu Town’s Thoroughbred Horse Ranches
The adjacent Niikappu Town is renowned as thoroughbred horse production area. Numerous ranches offer facilities for viewing thoroughbreds and experiencing horseback riding.
Hidaka Kelp
The Hidaka region is also known as a kelp production area. Local specialty product shops sell high-quality Hidaka kelp.
Photography Tips and Best Timing
Presented below are points for capturing the beauty of the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue in photographs.
Photography Tips by Time of Day
Early Morning (Just After Sunrise): Cherry blossoms illuminated by soft morning light create a fantastical atmosphere. With few tourists present, photography can proceed quietly.
Daytime (10:00 AM-2:00 PM): Cherry blossom colors appear most vivid during this time. Beautiful photographs capturing contrast between blue skies and cherry blossoms can be taken.
Late Afternoon (Before Sunset): Cherry blossoms illuminated by sunset light take on warm tones. Photography leveraging golden hour light is recommended.
Composition Ideas
- Perspective-enhancing compositions emphasizing the straight road
- Framing utilizing the cherry tree tunnel
- Photography combining Ryuun-kaku and cherry blossoms for historical atmosphere
- Close-up photography of cherry blossoms
Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue Throughout the Seasons｜Charm Beyond Cherry Blossoms
The Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue offers beauty across all four seasons, not merely during spring cherry blossom season.
Summer Shade
During summer, cherry tree foliage becomes dense and green, transforming the avenue into a cool shaded tree-lined path. Strolling through fresh verdure reveals charm distinct from spring.
Autumn Foliage
In autumn, cherry tree leaves turn brilliant red and yellow, creating a colorful avenue. With less congestion than spring, leisurely strolling becomes possible.
Winter Snow Scene
Winter transforms the avenue into a silent, snow-covered tree-lined path. Snow-covered cherry trees create beautiful scenery symbolic of Hokkaido’s harsh winters.
Cherry Blossom Supporter Program｜Participation in Conservation Activities
To preserve the beauty of the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue for future generations, Shinhidaka Town operates a “Cherry Blossom Supporter” program.
What is a Cherry Blossom Supporter?
Cherry Blossom Supporters are individuals who support conservation activities for the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue. Donation funds are utilized for cherry tree vigor restoration, maintenance, new cherry tree planting, and related activities.
How to Participate
Registration is available through Shinhidaka Town’s official website. Supporters receive letters of appreciation and commemorative gifts, as well as invitations to special events.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Please observe the following points when visiting the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue.
Cherry Tree Protection
- Do not break cherry tree branches or climb trees
- Walk only on designated paths to avoid trampling tree roots
- Take all litter with you
Congestion Management
- Expect significant crowding on weekends and during peak bloom period
- Visiting on weekdays or early mornings is recommended
- Consider using public transportation to avoid parking area congestion
Weather Preparedness
- Early May weather in Hokkaido can be chilly in mornings and evenings
- Bring jackets for temperature protection
- Weather can change rapidly, so bring rain gear
Conclusion｜Visit Japan’s Premier Cherry Blossom Viewing Destination
The Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue, with over 2,200 cherry trees lining a straight 7km road, stands as one of Japan’s finest cherry blossom viewing spots. Boasting over a century of history since the Taisho era, this cherry blossom avenue has been recognized as “Japan’s Hundred Finest Roads,” “Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots,” and “Hokkaido Heritage,” earning its position as a premier Hokkaido tourist destination cherished by countless visitors.
The Ezo wild cherry as the predominant variety alongside diverse cherry tree species, grand scale, historical significance, and seasonal beauty—the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue contains numerous elements that captivate visitors.
Each year during early May’s peak season, approximately 100,000 visitors from across Japan come to enjoy the fully bloomed cherry blossom avenue. Whether driving, walking, cycling, or photographing, this cherry blossom destination offers multiple enjoyment methods, promising an unforgettable emotional experience to all who visit.
When planning spring travel to Hokkaido, be sure to add the Nijukkenkaido Cherry Blossom Avenue to your itinerary. The spectacular vista created by Japan’s finest cherry blossom avenue will undoubtedly become a treasured memory etched in your heart.
