A sneak peek of what’s to come

True, it is still January but it doesn’t hurt to get excited for what lies ahead, right?

Well, one of the many things I am looking forward to in the coming months is observing the transition from winter to spring, and welcoming one of the most iconic symbols of Japan…cherry blossoms!

Although there are numerous cherry blossom spots in Kochi, one of my personal favorites is the magical collaboration you get to see in Niyodogawa Town. Once you witness the soft pink petals rustling above the crystal-clear emerald water of the Niyodo River, you’re sure to understand why I referred to the combination as magical

The top photo here shows the Ikegawa Fureai Park area, where cherry trees bloom along 800 meters of the Doi River (a tributary of the Niyodo River) typically between late March and early April. Hyotan Sakura Park is another must-visit spot just 20 minutes away by car, home to a 500-year-old hyotan (gourd-shaped) cherry tree

Ikegawa Fureai Park
https://maps.app.goo.gl/givqgDSwFcjy5RkK8

Hyotan Sakura Park
https://maps.app.goo.gl/1PuzHTX5ayRiNxBfA
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10048

Thank you to Instagram user @izumin0924 for the stunning third photo!

@izumin0924: https://www.instagram.com/izumin0924/