Makino Park, located in Sakawa Town, Kochi Prefecture, is celebrated as one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots. Named after the renowned botanist Dr. Tomitaro Makino, the park features a stunning collection of 17 cherry tree varieties, offering a long blooming season from early February to mid-April. Its beautiful landscapes, historical significance, and wide variety of cherry blossoms make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Why Makino Park is Worth Visiting

• Historical Significance: The park commemorates Dr. Tomitaro Makino, the “Father of Japanese Botany,” and features cherry trees he gifted to his hometown.
• Diverse Cherry Blossoms: With 17 varieties of cherry trees, including rare species named by Dr. Makino, the park offers a prolonged blooming season.
• Panoramic Views: The mountainside setting provides stunning views of Sakawa Town, especially during sunset.
• Botanical and Educational Value: Informational signage and guided tours highlight the park’s unique flora and Dr. Makino’s legacy.

Makino Park Cherry Blossoms

Makino Park is a treasure trove of cherry blossom varieties. While the iconic Somei Yoshino is well-represented, the park’s standout feature is its collection of rarer species, many identified and named by Dr. Makino himself. Notable varieties include Oshimazakura, Sendaiyazakura, and Wakakinosakura. The 200-meter-long cherry tree tunnel at the park entrance is a visitor favorite, offering a picturesque walkway for leisurely strolls.

Cherry Blossom Viewing Highlights

The extended blooming season at Makino Park is one of its standout features, beginning with early bloomers like Kawazu cherry in February and extending until mid-April with late-blooming varieties. This ensures that visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms over an unusually long period. The park also showcases unique varieties such as Yaezakura, which features multi-petaled flowers, and Shidarezakura, or weeping cherry trees, adding diverse textures and colors to the visual display. During the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, the beauty of the blossoms is enhanced with nighttime illuminations, creating a magical atmosphere for evening visits.

Makino Park Facilities & Amenities

Makino Park is designed with visitor comfort in mind. The centrally located Makino Zashiki Building provides a comfortable rest area where visitors can relax, gather, or simply enjoy the surrounding views. Throughout the park, well-maintained walking paths and strategically placed benches ensure a leisurely and enjoyable exploration of the cherry blossoms. Public restrooms, including accessible facilities, are conveniently located to accommodate all visitors. A free parking area near the park entrance offers space for up to 70 vehicles, making it convenient for those traveling by car. Informational signage throughout the park adds an educational element, detailing the various cherry tree species and Dr. Makino’s contributions to botany. During peak cherry blossom season, additional facilities, such as food stalls and night illumination equipment, may be available to enhance the experience.

Dining Options

Within the park grounds, visitors can enjoy light refreshments, including the locally popular warabi mochi at Usagido. Nearby, the unagi restaurant Taishoken is highly recommended for its flavorful grilled eel dishes. Another option is Kyu-hamaguchike-jutaku, a charming spot offering a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Travel Tips

• Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour to learn about Dr. Makino’s legacy and the park’s botanical significance.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven paths and slopes.
• Peak Season Parking: Arrive early to secure parking or consider public transportation to avoid congestion.
• Seasonal Events: Check the Sakawa Tourism Association website for updates on cherry blossom festivals and special events.

How to Get to Makino Park

• By Train: A short 8-10 minute walk from JR Sakawa Station.
• By Car: Approximately 30 minutes from the Ino Interchange on the Kochi Expressway via Route 33. Free parking is available for 70 vehicles near the entrance.

Address: 2458 Ko, Sakawa-cho, Takaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture

Nearby Attractions

• Makino Botanical Garden: Dedicated to Dr. Makino’s legacy, this garden offers extensive plant collections and educational exhibits.
• Sakawa Museum of History and Folklore: A small museum showcasing the history and traditions of Sakawa Town.
• Shoryuji Temple: A historic Buddhist temple offering tranquil gardens and panoramic views of the area.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Godaisan Park: Located in Kochi City, this park offers sweeping views and vibrant cherry blossoms.
• Kochi Castle: The castle grounds are adorned with cherry trees, creating a scenic blend of history and nature.
• Harimaya Bridge: A picturesque spot in Kochi City, surrounded by cherry blossoms and steeped in local legend.

Top Image Source: アラツク, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons