Otaru Cherry Blossom Spots Guide
In recent years, the cherry blossoms in Otaru have been blooming earlier each year, and many spots reach their peak around late April. Since the blooming period can vary, predicting the exact time of full bloom is difficult, but if you visit Otaru from late April to early May, you might unexpectedly enjoy a delightful cherry blossom experience.
◆ Main Cherry Blossom Spots in Otaru
The following eight locations are major cherry blossom spots in Otaru, highlighted on the "Otaru Sakura Map" issued by the Otaru Tourism Association.
Except for Mt. Tengu, these spots typically reach full bloom in early May, though recent years have seen earlier blossoming starting from late April.
◆ Suitengu Shrine
Located on a small hill overlooking Otaru Port, Suitengu Shrine is designated as a historical building in Otaru. The grounds feature both Somei Yoshino and Ezo Yamazakura cherry trees, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy both the cherry blossoms and a panoramic view of Otaru's sea.
◆ Tenjoji Temple
Located in the city’s Irifune district, Tenjoji Temple is a Jodo-shu Buddhist temple. The temple’s main hall is also a designated historical building in Otaru. The temple grounds feature about 30 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino. The temple's Amida Nyorai statue, which some people say resembles an afro hairstyle, is also a point of interest.
◆ Mt. Tengu
After taking the ropeway to the top of Mt. Tengu, you’ll find a single Ezo Yamazakura tree known as "Tengu Sakura." This tree reaches full bloom after most of the cherry blossoms in Otaru have fallen, offering a late-blooming cherry blossom experience along with stunning views of the city.
◆ Temiya Park
Located on a high hill in the northern part of Otaru, Temiya Park features about 700 cherry trees, including Ezo Yamazakura and Somei Yoshino. From the park, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Otaru town and the blue sea framed by cherry blossoms.
◆ Hiraiso Park
This park, which includes about 100 cherry trees, features a mix of Somei Yoshino, Ezo Yamazakura, and Yaezakura. When these trees reach full bloom simultaneously, the scene is spectacular. Situated on a hill near Grand Park Otaru, the park offers views of the harbor area, including hotels and other landmarks.
◆ JR Minami-Otaru Station
A small station located between Otaru Station and Otaru Chikko Station, it is conveniently located near the popular tourist spot, the Märchen Intersection. Near the station’s entrance, several Somei Yoshino trees bloom beautifully. The view from the lower platform is especially stunning.
◆ Otaru Park
A well-loved park in the city, Otaru Park features about 900 cherry trees, including Ezo Yamazakura and Somei Yoshino. It is an excellent choice for families, with playground equipment for children.
◆ Nagahashi Naebo Park
This park is home to about 3,000 cherry trees, including Ezo Yamazakura, with trees planted according to different historical periods, from the Meiji era to the Heisei era. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing day of nature walks, where you can also observe birds and small animals.
◆ Secret Cherry Blossom Spots to Enjoy Quietly
There are also many hidden cherry blossom spots along roads, train tracks, shopping streets, and rivers. These aren’t large-scale spots for a dedicated cherry blossom outing but are still delightful places where locals enjoy the blossoms as part of their daily commutes or walks.
◆ Otaru Police Station
Located in a sunny area, the cherry trees here are famous for being the first to bloom in the city, signaling the arrival of spring to Otaru residents.
◆ Behind JR Otaru Station
If you walk past the Sankaku market near the station and head up Funamisaka (Funami Slope), you will find a line of cherry trees just beyond the railway bridge. This spot offers a great opportunity to photograph cherry blossoms with the trains at Otaru Station.
◆ Hanazono Bridge
A small, narrow bridge where cherry trees bloom along the embankment next to the train tracks below. This spot is great for capturing both the cherry blossoms and trains in one frame.
◆ Märchen Intersection
Located at the end of Sakaimachi Street, Märchen Intersection is a bustling junction with landmarks like the Canadian-made steam clock, the Otaru Orgel Museum, and LeTAO. The pink cherry blossoms here create a beautiful contrast with the international atmosphere of the area.
◆ Old Temiya Line
The former railway line, now a walking path, is lined with vibrant cherry trees. It is a popular spot for visitors to witness the arrival of spring at one of Otaru's sightseeing locations.
◆ Otaru Central Park
Located near the intersection of Route 5 and the JR Hakodate Line, this small park is a peaceful spot for locals. It offers a lovely cherry blossom view and is conveniently located for a quick visit during a sightseeing trip.
◆ Wing Bay Otaru
From the second floor of the Grand Park Otaru, particularly near the Terrace Brasserie restaurant, you can enjoy views of the cherry blossoms along the road. It’s a great place to enjoy both a meal and the blossoming trees.
◆ Asari River Cherry Blossom Road
Along the Asari River, about 370 small cherry trees bloom, making it a soothing spot for a nature-filled stroll during the cherry blossom season.
◆ Nidan Park
A popular spot with a large cherry tree, this park offers both play equipment for children and a peaceful place to enjoy the blossoms. It's also close to the Otaru Canal, making it an easy stop during your sightseeing tour.
◆ Hanazono Ginza Shopping Street
A cherry blossom-lined street within the shopping area, Hanazono Ginza was awarded the "Otaru City Urban Landscape Award" in 2011. It’s a great place to shop and enjoy cherry blossoms at the same time.
