‘Night Cherry Blossoms’ is illuminated – Experience Mystical Scenery in the oldest Park in Kyoto “Maruyama Park”

Maruyama Park, one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Kyoto, boasts over 600 cherry trees in full bloom. Among them, the “Gion no Yozakura,” a weeping cherry tree, is a must-see attraction that captivates visitors with its delicate branches and stunning pink flowers. Illuminated until April 9th, the tree creates a magical and enchanting atmosphere that is entirely different from the daytime.

“Maruyama Park”(円山公園) is the oldest park in Kyoto City, established in 1886. This park has loved by a lot of people, and some people drop by this park while on their way to worship because it’s located near Yasaka Shrine and Chion-in. You can enjoy the seasonal beautiful scenery in each season, but it’s especially crowded with tourists during the season when the cherry blossoms that color the park gorgeously are in full bloom.

The 2nd generation weeping cherry tree, known as ‘Gion no Yozakura’, is the most famous tree in Maruyama Park, located in the center of the park. The first weeping cherry tree was 12 meters tall with a root circumference of 4 meters and was designated as a natural monument in 1938. However, it withered and died in the same year. The 2nd tree was grown from seeds of the 1st generation and was planted in its current location in 1949. Nowadays, it has grown significantly, and its beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom every year attract many visitors to the park.

Other than this weeping cherry, over 600 cherry blossoms including the Yoshino cherry are in full bloom in the park. In 2023, the light-up event is scheduled until 9th April. The fantastically illuminated cherry blossoms at night are spectacular, and seeing the cherry blossom petals fluttering in the spring breeze is also an exceptional experience. Why not take a relaxing stroll in the pleasant weather and enjoy a shower of cherry blossoms?