‘Hanami’ or ‘flower viewing’ is perhaps the quintessential Japanese activity and one of the highlights of any visit in spring. Given it’s higher elevation, the cherry blossoms of Nagano including Matsukawa Valley typically bloom later than those of the coastal cities and enjoying ‘hanami’ is one of the best ways to experience the region.

Among the many blossom trees of the valley, there are 5 individual trees of particular note including the famous Tsuboi’s Weeping Cherry Tree – said to be the oldest blossom tree in the region at over 600 years of age – and Kurobe’s Edohigan Cherry Tree – at over 13 meters tall and more than 500 years old. These trees draw Japanese to the valley to view the fragile and beautiful petals, seen as symbolic on the fleeting and fragile nature of life itself. Getting to and between the famous trees of Matsukawa takes a little time and independence but is well worth the effort as you experience the blossoms in a region and way that most international visitors don’t get to see. Take the local bus from Suzaka Station and disembark at either the You-Yu Land or Warabi Hot Spring stops.