Enjoy the Hagi Cherry Blossom Festival in Hagi
About the Festival
The Hagi Cherry Blossom Festival is held annually in early April in the city of Hagi, located in Yamaguchi prefecture in western Japan. The festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the blooming of the cherry blossoms, which are a symbol of renewal and hope in Japanese culture.
The festival takes place in Hagi Castle Town, a historic district known for its well-preserved samurai residences and traditional architecture. During the festival, the streets are lined with cherry blossom trees in full bloom, creating a stunning pink canopy that attracts visitors from all over Japan and beyond.
What to Do
- Take a stroll through Hagi Castle Town and admire the cherry blossoms.
- Visit the Hagi Castle Ruins and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
- Explore the samurai residences and learn about the history of the area.
- Try local specialties such as Hagi beef and sake.
- Attend one of the many cultural events and performances, including taiko drumming and traditional dance.
- Take part in a Hanami party, a traditional Japanese custom of picnicking under the cherry blossoms.
When to Go
The Hagi Cherry Blossom Festival typically takes place in early April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The exact dates vary from year to year, so it's best to check the official website for the latest information.
How to Get There
Hagi is located in Yamaguchi prefecture in western Japan. The nearest airport is Yamaguchi Ube Airport, which has domestic flights from major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. From the airport, you can take a bus or train to Hagi.
If you are coming from Tokyo or Osaka, you can take a shinkansen (bullet train) to Shin-Yamaguchi Station, and then transfer to a local train to Higashi-Hagi Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Hagi Castle Town.