Located in the serene mountain village of Mitake in Mie Prefecture, the cherry blossoms here offer a unique and unforgettable hanami experience. Renowned for its Tunnel of Yamazakura Blossoms, Mitake attracts visitors with its picturesque 1.5-kilometer approach to the ancient Shinpuku-in Temple, lined with over 2,000 wild cherry trees. This breathtaking display, typically at its peak from early to mid-April, has earned Mitake a place among Japan’s Top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots.

Why Mitake is Worth Visiting

• Tunnel of Yamazakura Blossoms: A scenic 1.5-kilometer path lined with over 500 ancient wild Yamazakura trees creates a mesmerizing cherry blossom tunnel.
• Extended Blooming Season: Due to the mountain cherry trees’ gradual blooming, visitors can enjoy blossoms well into mid-April, beyond the typical sakura season.
• Scenic Rice Terraces: Cherry blossoms reflected in water-filled rice paddies create a stunning visual, especially at sunset.
• Forest Therapy Base: Certified as a forest therapy destination, Mitake offers wellness experiences like forest bathing in the green tunnel formed by cherry trees.
• Night Illumination: The “Night Cherry Blossom Square” provides a magical evening hanami experience with illuminated trees.

Mitake Cherry Blossoms

Mitake’s cherry blossom tunnel is a standout among Japan’s sakura destinations, thanks to the ancient Yamazakura variety that dominates the landscape. Unlike the popular Somei Yoshino trees, Yamazakura blooms alongside its leaves, extending the season and creating a rich tapestry of pink and green. The 1.5-kilometer approach to Shinpuku-in Temple, originally planted by Lord Kitabatake Kenyoshi, is now home to about 2,000 cherry trees, including some ancient specimens.

The varying elevations along the path result in staggered blooming, offering visitors the opportunity to see blossoms in different stages, from early buds to full bloom. This scenic route culminates in the serene surroundings of Shinpuku-in Temple, where a majestic zelkova tree, designated a natural monument, stands as a testament to the area’s historical significance.

For photography enthusiasts, the combination of cherry blossoms with Mitake’s terraced rice fields offers iconic imagery, especially during sunset when the reflections in the paddies amplify the beauty of the scene.

Facilities & Amenities

Mitake provides visitors with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. There are three designated parking lots available for a fee of 500 yen per vehicle, though they tend to fill up quickly during peak season. For those relying on public transportation, a temporary community bus service operates during cherry blossom season, connecting Ise-Okutsu Station to the site on weekends.

During the cherry blossom festival, local vendors set up food stalls offering snacks and regional delicacies, adding a festive touch to the experience. Visitor information can be obtained at the Hidamari tourist center near Ise-Okutsu Station, and for those planning an overnight stay, accommodations are available at the nearby Healthy Village Misugi, a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

Dining Options

Dining options near Mitake’s cherry blossom area are limited, but food stalls set up during the cherry blossom season provide convenient snacks and regional delicacies. For more substantial meals, restaurants are located a short drive away. Recommended options include Dondon, a delightful spot offering freshly baked bread and hearty meals; Slow Tempo Cafe & Bar, a cozy cafe and bar providing a relaxed atmosphere for brunch or drinks; and Yamabiko, known for its traditional Japanese dishes and charming rural ambiance. These dining spots offer a chance to explore local flavors while enjoying the tranquil surroundings of the Mitake area.

Travel Tips

• Best Viewing Time: Plan your visit between early and mid-April, as the Yamazakura trees bloom about 10 days later than Somei Yoshino.
• Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for easier access to the remote location. If using public transit, take the JR Meisho Line to Ise-Okutsu Station and use the temporary bus service.
• Photography: Arrive early in the morning to capture soft light and avoid crowds. The terraced rice fields offer especially stunning photo opportunities.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uphill walking along the 1.5-kilometer cherry blossom tunnel.
• Avoiding Crowds: Visit on weekdays if possible, as weekends tend to be busier.

How to Get to Mitake

Mitake is accessible by both car and public transportation. By car, it is a 70-minute drive from the Hisai Interchange on the Ise Expressway or the Ueno Interchange on the Meihan National Highway. For public transit users, take the JR Meisho Line to Ise-Okutsu Station. From there, a temporary community bus operates on select weekends during cherry blossom season, connecting visitors to the Sugihira stop near the site. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Nearby Attractions

Mitake offers more than just cherry blossoms. The surrounding areas are rich in natural and cultural beauty:

Shinpuku-in Temple

At the heart of the cherry blossom tunnel, this ancient temple provides a serene backdrop to the blossoms. Visitors can admire its historic architecture and the large zelkova tree designated as a natural monument.

Terraced Rice Fields

The terraced rice fields, reflecting the pink blossoms in their water-filled paddies, create one of the most iconic scenes in Mitake. These fields are particularly enchanting during sunset, offering a perfect spot for photography.

Night Cherry Blossom Square

For a magical evening experience, visit the Night Cherry Blossom Square, where the illuminated trees transform the cherry blossom tunnel into an ethereal wonderland.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

Nabari City’s Akame 48 Waterfalls

About 30 minutes from Mitake, this natural gem features a series of cascading waterfalls framed by cherry blossoms during the season, creating a tranquil yet dynamic scene.

Suzuka Forest Garden

Located an hour from Mitake, this garden boasts weeping cherry trees that bloom slightly later, offering another stunning sakura viewing opportunity.

Matsusaka Castle Ruins

A 90-minute drive brings visitors to the historic Matsusaka Castle ruins, where cherry blossoms contrast beautifully with ancient stone walls.

Top Image Photo Source: Daisuke K via Flickr, CC BY-ND 2.0