Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

The Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 is inviting you to experience its breathtaking blooms and centuries-old history.

Held from April 1 to April 15, 2025, in Tsuyama City, Okayama Prefecture, this festival transforms the Tsuyama Castle ruins into a sakura wonderland. This is one of Japan's top cherry blossom spots with over 1,000 Somei Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom, stone walls, and mesmerizing nighttime illuminations.

Located in Kakuzan Park, which sits on the former grounds of Tsuyama Castle, the festival is a must-visit for anyone who loves Japanese culture, history, and, of course, the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms.

Disclaimer: These dates are based on bloom predictions for 2025, but bloom timing can change. Double-check closer to your visit to avoid surprises!

History of Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival

Originally built in 1616, Tsuyama Castle was once considered one of Japan’s most impressive castles. Although much of it was dismantled during the Meiji Restoration, the grounds were later converted into Kakuzan Park, which has since become one of the country’s top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots.

The Bitchu Yagura, one of the castle’s original turrets, was restored in 2005 to commemorate the castle’s 400th anniversary, adding even more historical charm to the park. Today, the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival continues to celebrate the region’s rich heritage, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

What to Expect at Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Tsuyama Sakura festival blends nature, culture, and tradition against the backdrop of stone walls and castle ruins. Here’s what makes it special:

• 1,000 cherry trees in full bloom – The Somei Yoshino cherry trees create a stunning canopy of pink and white blossoms, contrasting with the castle’s stone walls and offering panoramic views of Tsuyama City.
• Hanami under the trees – Locals and tourists gather for cherry blossom viewing (hanami), spreading out picnic blankets and enjoying seasonal treats beneath the flowers.
• Tea ceremonies – Experience traditional Japanese tea culture in an unforgettable setting, with tea ceremonies held under the blooming trees.
• Nighttime illuminations – As the sun sets, the cherry blossoms are illuminated until 10:00 PM, creating a magical atmosphere that makes the park feel like something out of a dream.

If you need a break from the festival, Tsuyama City’s fun streets and local restaurants offer plenty of places to explore and enjoy regional cuisine like Tsuyama Horumon Udon (grilled offal noodles).

How to Get to Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

Tsuyama is located in Okayama Prefecture, and reaching Kakuzan Park is relatively straightforward. Here’s the best way to get there:

• By train and bus – Take the JR Tsuyama Line to Tsuyama Station. The park is about a 10-minute walk from the station. During the festival, local buses may also run to the event area.
• By car – If you're driving, set Tsuyama Castle Kakuzan Park as your destination on Google Maps. There are limited parking spaces near the park, and they fill up quickly on weekends and peak bloom days. Arrive early if you plan to drive.
• From Tokyo or Osaka – Take the Shinkansen to Okayama Station, then transfer to the JR Tsuyama Line. The journey from Osaka takes around 2.5 hours, while from Tokyo, it’s closer to 4 hours.
• By air – If you're flying in, Okayama Momotaro Airport (OKJ) is the closest airport. From there, take a bus or train to Tsuyama.

Since cherry blossom season is peak travel time, trains and accommodations fill up fast. Book your tickets and lodging early to make the most of your visit!

Ticket Prices and Admission

Entry to Kakuzan Park is generally free, but admission to the festival area costs 310 yen (around $2.09) for adults. Middle school students and younger can enter for free.

If you want to explore the restored Bitchu Yagura, there’s an additional entrance fee, so check the official Tsuyama tourism website for details.

Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Policy

Planning a hanami picnic or bringing camera gear for the perfect cherry blossom shot? Keep in mind the usual bag policies at large festivals:

• Small backpacks and handbags are generally allowed.
• Large luggage, coolers, and oversized bags may not be permitted within festival areas.
• A limited number of coin lockers are available near Tsuyama Station, but these fill up fast.

Since official restrictions can change, check the Tsuyama City website before your visit.

Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Keep Your Hands Free and Enjoy the Blossoms

If you don’t want to worry about hauling bags around, Bounce offers secure bag storage in Okayama Prefecture and other major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto. Drop off your belongings and enjoy the festival worry-free.

• Affordable – Store your bags for as low as ¥400 per day.
• Safe & Secure – Your belongings are protected up to ¥1,000,000, so you can relax and focus on the festival.
• 24/7 Support – Need assistance? Bounce’s support team is always ready to help.
• Free Cancellation – Plans changed? No worries, you can cancel for free before check-in.

How to Store Your Bags at Tsuyama Kakuzan Park with Bounce

Using Bounce is simple:

1. Find a spot – Use the Bounce app or website to locate and book storage near Tsuyama Station or major transport hubs.
2. Drop off your bags – Check in at your chosen location and store your items securely.
3. Enjoy the festival – Wander through blooming cherry trees, explore historic castle ruins, and soak in the beauty of spring in Japan.

Tips to Make the Most of Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025

• Arrive early – The best cherry blossom viewing spots go fast, especially on weekends.
• Check the bloom forecast – Full bloom lasts only about 10 days, so plan your visit carefully.
• Dress for the weather – Early April in Okayama Prefecture sees temperatures of 10–18 C (50–64 F), so bring a jacket for the evening.
• Explore beyond the park – Stroll through Joto Street, visit the Tsuyama Archives of Western Learning Museum, Joto Traditional Buildings Preservation District, and Tsuyama Learning Railway Museum, or try local specialties like Tsuyama Horumon Udon at a nearby restaurant.
• Stay for the evening – The illuminated cherry blossoms at night are worth the wait.
• Skip the baggage hassle – Use Bounce to store your bags and enjoy the festival hands-free.

If you’re looking for one of Japan’s best cherry blossom viewing spots with a mix of history and natural beauty, the Tsuyama Kakuzan Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 should be on your list. Mark your calendar for April 1–15, 2025, and get ready for stunning blossoms, castle ruins, and a true hanami experience!