As the cherry blossom season comes to a close, the beauty of spring continues to unfold across Okayama and Kagawa prefectures. This year, the cherry blossoms have captivated residents and visitors alike, with stunning displays of pink blooms brightening the landscape.
On April 10, 2025, the cherry blossoms along the Asahi River in Okayama City were nearing the end of their bloom, with petals scattering in the gentle breeze and young leaves beginning to sprout. "It feels like summer is just around the corner with the green starting to show," remarked one local observer, reflecting the seasonal transition.
In Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture, the famed Kasenzakura, a cherry tree believed to be over 1000 years old, continues to attract attention. Its historical significance and beauty make it a must-see for cherry blossom enthusiasts. Meanwhile, in Yubara City, approximately 180 Somei Yoshino cherry trees created a picturesque light pink tunnel, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors.
At Mabifureai Park in Kurashiki City, 55 Edohigan cherry trees, planted to coincide with the park's opening last July, are blooming beautifully for the first time. This marks a significant moment for the park, which serves as a symbol of recovery following the devastating floods in western Japan.
Over in Tamano City, Yokota Park is hosting a competition of early-blooming Koidobori, adding a lively touch to the cherry blossom festivities. The vibrant colors of the koi banners flapping in the wind complement the delicate cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque scene.
Kagawa Prefecture is also celebrating the cherry blossom season with approximately 650 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Shidarezakura, blooming majestically at Marugame Castle. The castle, known for its historical significance, has become a popular destination for those wishing to enjoy the seasonal beauty.
Furthermore, the annual spring event, known as "Oneri" in Kotohira-cho, was enhanced by the full-bloom cherry blossoms, which added a splash of color to the traditional festivities.
However, the cherry blossoms have not only thrived in celebratory settings. In the aftermath of a significant forest fire that occurred last month in southern Okayama Prefecture, which resulted in the largest area burned in the prefecture's history, cherry trees are still standing resiliently. Even amidst the destruction, these trees continue to bloom, symbolizing hope and renewal for the community.
As the cherry blossoms begin to scatter and the season transitions, residents are reminded of the fleeting beauty of nature. "Watching the petals fall like a snowstorm is a lovely sight during this time of year," said another local visitor, appreciating the beauty of the cherry blossoms even in their final moments.
In addition to the breathtaking floral displays, the weather forecast for the coming weeks indicates a shift towards warmer temperatures. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, from April 13 to April 15, the highest temperatures are expected to range from 16°C to 17°C, slightly below average. However, the agency also predicts that from April 19 to April 25, warm air will flow in from the south, leading to potential summer days with temperatures exceeding 25°C in Okayama City and Takamatsu City.
As the cherry blossoms bid farewell for the year, the warmer weather is anticipated to usher in more outdoor activities and celebrations. Mitsuooka Ayahi, a new weather forecaster who joined OHK Live News on April 1, will be providing daily updates on the weather from Monday to Friday, ensuring that viewers stay informed about the changing conditions.
On April 11, the weather point highlighted by Mitsuooka is "Showers in the morning, yellow sand too," indicating a mix of weather elements that residents should prepare for. The broadcast, which aired around 6:30 PM on April 10, provided insights into the rain clouds' movement and the weather trends for the upcoming weekend.
As spring progresses, the cherry blossoms serve as a reminder of the beauty of nature and its transient moments. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to take in the sights while they last, as the cherry blossoms are a cherished part of the cultural landscape in Okayama and Kagawa.
With the promise of warmer days ahead and the lingering beauty of cherry blossoms, the community looks forward to embracing the joys of spring. Whether it's enjoying the last of the blooms or preparing for summer, the season is one of renewal and hope.
