Makino Park

This park is located in the little town of Sakawa, just under an hour by train from Kochi City. Perched on the mountainside overlooking the town, the park was created to house cherry blossom saplings gifted by the Kochi-born botanist Dr. Tomitaro Makino, who is considered the father of Japanese botany.

Makino Park is listed as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom-viewing locations, as when the trees begin to flower the entire side of the mountain is tinged pink. The park boasts 17 different varieties of cherry trees with different blooming times, so from the beginning of February to mid-April there are always some fluffy blossoms to see. During the yearly cherry blossom festival rows of glowing lanterns and special events add to the celebratory feeling.

However, the park is also worth a visit in other seasons, as dozens of native plants grow amongst the trees, so something is in bloom every month of the year.

Besides the park, Sakawa also has many retro buildings to explore and an attractive temple, making it a pleasant, easy day trip from Kochi City. Be sure to stop by the Tsukasabotan brewery’s shop to pick up a bottle of their award-winning sake.