When mentioning Fukushima Prefecture (福島県), I believe it is a name that Thai people are familiar with due to the news of the major tsunami disaster several years ago (March 11, 2011). However, in the years since then, Fukushima has been restored to its former beauty and vibrancy. Fortunately, most of the natural tourist attractions located deep inland were not damaged at all.

During my trip to Fukushima in 2017, I had the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of weeping cherry blossoms.

The Enchanting Kitakata Nicchu Line: A Blossoming Path in Tohoku

The Kitakata Nicchu Line, once a bustling railway connecting Kitakata and Atsushio stations, has been transformed into a picturesque path for pedestrians and cyclists. This 3-kilometer stretch boasts a breathtaking spectacle of over 1,000 weeping cherry trees (Shidare Sakura), making it one of the most renowned cherry blossom viewing destinations in the Tohoku region.

Japan boasts hundreds of diverse cherry blossom varieties, each distinguished by its unique color, petal shape, and blooming period. The most prevalent and widely cultivated variety in Japan is the Somei Yoshino, known for its pale pink blossoms. Another captivating variety is the Shidare Sakura, also known as the weeping cherry, which produces cascading branches adorned with soft pink flowers. When in full bloom, the Shidare Sakura resembles a waterfall of delicate blossoms, creating a mesmerizing and romantic spectacle as the wind gently sways its branches.



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The Kitakata Nicchu Line, typically devoid of tourists, transforms into a vibrant spectacle during the cherry blossom season. The most breathtaking display occurs between mid-April and early May, when weeping cherry trees bloom in unison along the 3-kilometer stretch, creating a mesmerizing canopy of pink.

This photo series was taken on April 28, 2017. (If you want to experience the beauty and atmosphere of this photo series, it is recommended to plan your trip during the middle to late April.)


Cherry Blossom Blooming in Kitakata: A Statistical Overview

The blooming of cherry blossoms in Kitakata is primarily influenced by weather conditions. To assist with planning future trips, I have compiled statistics on cherry blossom blooming at the Kitakata Nicchu Line over the past ten years. This data is based on information from the Kitakata Tourism website (www.kitakata-kanko.jp).

The table above shows that cherry blossoms typically begin blooming around April 20th, with some variation depending on the specific weather conditions each year.


Journey to Kitakata

Travel by JR Pass on the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Koriyama Station, taking approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. From JR Koriyama Station, board the JR Banetsu West Line to Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. After changing trains, continue for approximately 17 minutes to reach Kitakata Station.

From Kitakata Station, turn left and walk for approximately 300 meters to reach the entrance of the Nicchu Line, a pedestrian and cycling path lined with rows of weeping cherry trees stretching for 3 kilometers.

Check Point: Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots

There are four cherry blossom viewing spots that I recommend, marked on the map above:

  1. Cherry Blossoms and Mountain View: Located approximately 0.5 kilometers from the starting point.
  2. Steam Locomotive (SL) and Cherry Blossoms: Located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the starting point.
  3. Cherry Blossom Tunnel: Located between 2.0 and 2.5 kilometers from the starting point.
  4. Daffodils and Cherry Blossoms: Located approximately 2.7 kilometers from the starting point.

Approximately 0.5 kilometers from the entrance, a breathtaking view unfolds: vibrant pink cherry blossoms lining the path, framed by majestic mountains, with rice paddies and local houses dotting the landscape.



Approximately halfway along the 1.5 km trail, you will find a display of a steam locomotive (SL). This is because the Kitakata Nicchuu Line was once a railway connecting Kitakata Station and Atsushio Station. The line was discontinued in 1984 and has since been converted into a pedestrian and cycling path. This area is a popular spot for tourists to take記念 photos.

The Sakura Tunnel: A Breathtaking Highlight

The Sakura Tunnel, located between kilometer markers 2.0 and 2.5, is a must-see highlight of Kitakata. This enchanting stretch boasts a dense canopy of cherry blossoms, resembling a cascading waterfall of pink petals. Visitors are enveloped in a magical tunnel of vibrant hues, creating an unforgettable experience of romance and beauty. This captivating scene has become the iconic image used to promote tourism in Kitakata.

The final highlight is the yellow daffodil field, contrasting with the pink cherry blossoms, located around kilometer 2.7.

Along the 3-kilometer walking path, there are signs indicating your progress. Tourists can enjoy the cherry blossoms throughout the day without any entrance fees.

Rest areas, restrooms, and restaurants are available along the way.

**Tips:**
* The Sakura Tunnel, a must-see highlight, is located between kilometers 2.0 and 2.5, near the end of the walking trail. This area tends to be crowded. * Upon arrival at Kitakata Station, it is recommended to take the shuttle bus to the end of the walking trail at Kyumuramatsu Ekikita Station (Station 7 on the map above). From there, you can walk back to Kitakata Station while enjoying the cherry blossoms. * The shuttle bus runs in a loop, starting from Kitakata Station (Station 1 on the map) and stopping at Stations 5, 7, 10, and 11 before returning to Station 1. * Alternatively, if you start walking from Kitakata Station, you can take the shuttle bus back from the end of the Nicchu Line at Kyumuramatsu Ekikita Station (Station 7 on the map). * The bus fare is 200 yen per ride. (You can inquire about and receive a map and shuttle bus schedule at the Tourist Information Center inside Kitakata Station.)

Many friends have mentioned the beauty of Shidarezakura at Kitakata Nicchu Line and have invited friends to try to visit and enjoy the charm of this route, which is considered the most famous Yoyozakura viewing spot in the Tohoku region of Japan. To confirm the beauty of this route, I hope that my friends will include Kitakata Nicchuu Line in their travel program to Fukushima Prefecture next time after watching this album.





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#kitakata nicchu line#kitakata#fukushima, japan#travelogue#japan travel#travel photography#japan#cherry blossom viewing#train#japan
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