When spring arrives and the weather warms, cherry blossoms begin to bloom on Awaji Island, painting the landscape in vibrant hues. Expected to peak from late March to early April in 2026, here are the island’s top cherry blossom spots for you to explore and enjoy.
Awaji Island, located in the Seto Inland Sea in Hyogo Prefecture, is a hidden gem—not crowded like major destinations such as Kyoto and Osaka. The island offers many attractions, including beautiful natural scenery, immersive experiences at an anime-themed park, fresh and delicious local food, unique cultural highlights like the Awaji Puppet Theater (similar to Bunraku), and interesting historical sites connected to the Japanese myth that Awaji Island is the birthplace of Japan.
Easily accessible by public transportation, Awaji Island is a perfect addition to your itinerary. It is just one hour from Osaka, 30 minutes from Kobe, or 1.5 hours from Kyoto.
Table of Contents
Nijigen no Mori
Nijigen no Mori, an anime-themed park within Hyogo Prefectural Awajishima Park, celebrates Japanese pop culture. Home to around 900 cherry trees spanning seven varieties, it’s a must-visit spot for cherry blossom enthusiasts in Japan.
Just a 5-minute drive from Awaji Interchange after crossing the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, this park offers a stunning setting for cherry blossom viewing. Inside Nijigen no Mori, the Crayon Shinchan area features 54 statues of Shinchan and his friends, creating fun and memorable photo opportunities among the blossoms.
| Park Name | NIJIGEN NO MORI |
|---|---|
| Address | 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 |
| TEL | 0799-64-7061 |
| Website | https://nijigennomori.com/ |
| Reservations | https://ticket.nijigennomori.com/en/ |
| Operation Hours | Everyday10:00-22:00 *Each attraction has a different last reception time and closing time. |
Click here for details of NIJIGEN NO MORI
Seven Unique Cherry Blossom Varieties at Awajishima Park
Hyogo Prefectural Awajishima Park is home to 900 cherry trees, showcasing seven distinct varieties, including Yoshino Cherry, Prunus Itosakura, and Kanzan. As one of the island’s largest and most scenic sakura spots, it offers a breathtaking display of cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Zenbo Seinei
Imagine meditating atop a magnificent building, surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Awaji Island, including blooming cherry trees. Zenbo Seinei offers a tranquil experience for meditation and yoga amidst the island’s serene landscape. The area is adorned with plum and cherry blossoms, heralding the arrival of spring. During spring, you can also indulge in Zenbo Cuisine and afternoon tea. Designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, this architectural gem offers a peaceful retreat in perfect harmony with nature.
| Name | Zenbo Seinei |
|---|---|
| Address | 2594-5 Aza-Banaka, Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 |
| Tel | 0799-70-9087 |
| Website | https://www.zenbo-seinei.com/en/ |
| Program Reservations | https://zenbo-seinei.urkt.in/direct/offices/587/courses |
| Hotel Reservation | https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/shan-fang-jing-zhu-dan-lu-shi2.html |
| Operation Hours | Mon: 9:00 am～5:00 pm / Tues～Sun: 11:00 am～6:30 pm Closed: Varies depending on a month. Please inquire. |
Click here for details of ZEN Wellness SEINEI
Nojima Scuola
Formerly Nojima Elementary School, Nojima Scuola has been transformed into a vibrant complex on the west coast of Awaji Island. With something for everyone—families, couples, and friends alike—it offers a variety of attractions, including a café, bakery, restaurant, markets, and even a zoo. During cherry blossom season, “Nojima Marché Gelato” serves seasonal flavors, perfectly capturing the essence of spring and enhancing the overall experience.
| Name | Nojima Scuola |
|---|---|
| Adress | 843 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721 |
| Website | https://www.nojima-scuola.com/ |
| Reservations | 2F Ristorante Scuola https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022838-d12135206-Reviews-Nojima_Scoula-Awaji_Awaji_shima_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html |
| Tel | 0799-82-1820 |
| Operation Hours | 1F Marché /Bakery: Weekdays 10:30~19:00 Sat., Sun., & Public Holidays 10:00~19:00 1F Café Scuola: Weekdays Lunch 11:00~14:00/ café 14:00~18:00 Sat., Sun., & Public Holidays breakfast 10:00~11:00 Lunch 11:00~15:00 Café 15:00~18:00 2F Ristorante Scuola: 11:30~15:30 (in by 14:00) / 18:00~21:30 (in by 19:30) Outdoor Zoo: Weekdays 11:00~16:00 Sat., Sun. & Public Holidays 10:00~16:00 (13:00~14:00 animals in recess) Closed: Wednesdays (Open on Public Holidays) |
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Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park
Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park boasts around 800 cherry trees, representing 300 varieties from across Japan. Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a beloved tradition here. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the blossoms and take unlimited rides on a small tram that tours the park, making for a memorable cherry blossom experience. Please note that the tram is currently out of service and its starting date is unknow at this time.
Closing
Whether you’re planning to visit for a day or an extended stay, Awaji Island will offer a stunning array of cherry blossoms that embody the spirit of spring. Amid the blooms, be sure to capture the island’s enchanting sights.
