Isshingyo Sakura Tree

This 400-year-old cherry tree in Minami-Aso, Kumamoto, stands 14 meters tall and spreads into a wide canopy when it blooms in late March to early April. Local tradition holds it was planted by a samurai as a memorial. Its pale pink blossoms fall in dense clusters against the backdrop of the Aso mountain range. During peak bloom, the tree is lit at night and draws large crowds to Isshingyo Park for hanami. The surrounding Minami-Aso valley adds to the visit with rapeseed flower fields and views of the active Aso volcanic caldera, which are visible from the park on a clear day.