Why not escape the crowds and have the best cherry blossoms all to yourself? We have compiled four unique cherry blossom spots that Seiyo City, Ehime, is proud to share.
From a historic temple nestled in a quiet valley to a mountain pass overlooking the blue sea , a “one-of-a-kind experience” you won’t find anywhere else is waiting for you. Grab your camera and let’s go find your very own special spring!
Ryutaku-ji Temple
Ryutaku-ji Temple, located on Mount Umon in Shirokawa-cho, Seyo City, Ehime Prefecture.
Nestled in a tranquil mountain valley, this is one of Shikoku’s most renowned temples. It serves as a “Chu-Honzan” (secondary head temple) of the Sōtō-shū Sōji-ha sect and oversees 56 branch temples. The first thing that captures the attention of visitors is the moss-covered stone walk that leads you to the main temple. Giant cedar trees over 300 years old tower on either side, and the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a solemn atmosphere that has remained untouched for over 400 years. You’ll really feel like you’re stepping back in time while walking through this temple. It’s difficult to find a more unique cherry blossom viewing experience; you can enjoy the peaceful grounds of Ryutaku-ji while listening to the Japanese warbler sing in the cherry trees.
Ryutaku-ji Temple, located on Mount Umon in Shirokawa-cho, Seyo City, Ehime Prefecture.
Nestled in a tranquil mountain valley, this is one of Shikoku’s most renowned temples. It serves as a “Chu-Honzan” (secondary head temple) of the Sōtō-shū Sōji-ha sect and oversees 56 branch temples. The first thing that captures the attention of visitors is the moss-covered stone walk that leads you to the main temple. Giant cedar trees over 300 years old tower on either side, and the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a solemn atmosphere that has remained untouched for over 400 years. You’ll really feel like you’re stepping back in time while walking through this temple. It’s difficult to find a more unique cherry blossom viewing experience; you can enjoy the peaceful grounds of Ryutaku-ji while listening to the Japanese warbler sing in the cherry trees.
Access Information
■Address
753 Uonari, Shirokawa-cho, Seyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 40 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
■Address
753 Uonari, Shirokawa-cho, Seyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 40 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
Nofuku Pass
Sometimes the best place to watch the cherry blossoms is right from the comfort of your own car! Nofuku Pass is a mountain road lined with approximately 400 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees. The contrast with the blue waters of the Uwa Sea is truly breathtaking. From autumn through winter, the view of the setting sun against the distant, hazy mountain ranges of Kyushu and the orange glow of the Uwa Sea is stunning. Driving through here at dusk would be a perfect way to end your day!
Sometimes the best place to watch the cherry blossoms is right from the comfort of your own car! Nofuku Pass is a mountain road lined with approximately 400 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees. The contrast with the blue waters of the Uwa Sea is truly breathtaking. From autumn through winter, the view of the setting sun against the distant, hazy mountain ranges of Kyushu and the orange glow of the Uwa Sea is stunning. Driving through here at dusk would be a perfect way to end your day!
Access Information
■Address
Tawazu, Akihama-cho, Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 15 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
■Address
Tawazu, Akihama-cho, Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 15 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
Asagiri Lake Park
Nomura Town, where Asagiri Lake Park is located, is known as the “Town of Milk” due to its thriving dairy farming industry. Hoping for the town’s continued growth, a statue of Japan’s largest dairy cow has been erected as a symbol of the town. But besides the adorable mascot, the cherry blossoms at this spot are breathtaking. This reservoir, nestled within lush natural forest and surrounded by mountains on all sides, is called Asagiri Lake because it is often shrouded in mistt which gives the cherry blossoms a mystical and otherworldly vibe. There is a pavilion here as well, where you can enjoy a lovely lunch or just sit and relax under the pink trees.
Nomura Town, where Asagiri Lake Park is located, is known as the “Town of Milk” due to its thriving dairy farming industry. Hoping for the town’s continued growth, a statue of Japan’s largest dairy cow has been erected as a symbol of the town. But besides the adorable mascot, the cherry blossoms at this spot are breathtaking. This reservoir, nestled within lush natural forest and surrounded by mountains on all sides, is called Asagiri Lake because it is often shrouded in mistt which gives the cherry blossoms a mystical and otherworldly vibe. There is a pavilion here as well, where you can enjoy a lovely lunch or just sit and relax under the pink trees.
Access Information
■Address
Nomura, Nomura-cho, Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 12 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
■Address
Nomura, Nomura-cho, Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 12 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
Akama River Park
Last but certainly not least, Akama River Park. This park has been developed along the Hiji River upstream of the Nomura Dam, where approximately 800 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees bloom in full splendor. The combination of the deep-blue river and the pink cherry blossoms is truly beautiful. The slow babbling of the river and the breeze blowing through the trees is will help any weary traveler relax and enjoy the nature around them.
Last but certainly not least, Akama River Park. This park has been developed along the Hiji River upstream of the Nomura Dam, where approximately 800 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees bloom in full splendor. The combination of the deep-blue river and the pink cherry blossoms is truly beautiful. The slow babbling of the river and the breeze blowing through the trees is will help any weary traveler relax and enjoy the nature around them.
Access Information
■Address
Akanma, Uwa-cho, Seyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
■Address
Akanma, Uwa-cho, Seyo City, Ehime Prefecture
■Transportation Access
Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Matsuyama-Nishi-Uwa Interchange
Seiyo in Bloom: A Spring Experience Like No Other
Whatever spot you choose to go, you will truly have a one of a kind cheery blossom viewing experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Free from large crowds and the dreaded selfie stick, you’ll be sure to make incredible memories and have lots of amazing pictures to add to the photo album!