Sagae City’s Ohkura Dam park and the surrounding cherry orchards erupt in pink in late April — the festival combines classic hanami (flower viewing) under the blossoms with cherry-themed food stalls, local sake and evening illuminations that transform the trees into glowing pink canopies. As Japan’s premier cherry prefecture, this is one of the country’s most authentic fruit-blossom celebrations.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Sagae, Yamagata |
| Hours | Late April (peak bloom) |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | 1.5–2 hours |
| Best time | Late April (fixed by bloom) |
Highlights
- Cherry orchards around Ohkura Dam park in full bloom.
- Classic hanami picnics under the blossoms.
- Cherry-themed food stalls and local sake.
- Evening illuminations glowing pink after dark.
Combine Your Visit
- Return in summer for Yamagata cherry picking .
- Pair with Kaminoyama onsen.
- Visit Yamadera nearby.
Getting There
- By train: JR to Sagae Station, then bus/taxi to Ohkura Dam.
- By car: parking near the park during festival dates.
Tips
Bloom timing shifts each year — check the local forecast before travelling. Come at dusk to see both daytime blossoms and the evening illumination.
