The 'Hitome Senbonzakura' name translates to 'a thousand cherry trees at a single glance.'
The cherry tree rows stretch for approximately 8 kilometers along the Shiroishi River.
The trees were originally planted in the early 20th century by a local businessman to benefit the community.
The view from the bridge is frequently cited as one of the '100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan.'
The bridge specifically provides a clear line of sight to the Funaoka Castle Ruins Park slope.
The Shibata Senzakura Bridge, locally known as the Funaoka Joshi Park span, serves as a primary vantage point for the Hitome Senbonzakura, a renowned row of over 1,000 cherry trees lining the Shiroishi River. This pedestrian bridge connects the park area to the riverbank, providing an elevated perspective of the blooms against the backdrop of the Zao mountain range. The surrounding Shiroishi River embankments feature approximately 1,200 Yoshino cherry trees planted over the last century. During the peak blooming season, the site hosts the Shibata Sakura Festival. The landscape is designed to highlight the contrast between the snow-capped Zao mountains and the pink cherry blossoms. The area is maintained by the town of Shibata to preserve its status as one of Japan's premier cherry blossom viewing sites.
The center of the pedestrian bridge looking toward the Zao mountains with the river and blossoms in the frame.
Bring a portable cushion for sitting on the grass along the riverbank.
Visit on a weekday morning to minimize crowding during the peak festival period.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path between the park and the bridge involves inclines.
Avoid visiting on weekends during peak bloom if you prefer to avoid high-density crowds.
The area is most active during the annual Sakura Festival in spring; foot traffic can be restricted during extreme weather conditions.
Do not climb the cherry trees or pick the blossoms; carry out all trash as there are limited public bins.
