The Shikizakura species is a hybrid of the Edo-higan and Mame-zakura cherry trees.
The trees in this specific area were officially designated as a natural monument by the local government.
Unlike standard cherry blossoms that bloom only once, Shikizakura trees produce flowers in the spring and again in the cooler temperatures of autumn.
The autumn blooming cycle typically lasts for roughly one month, peaking in mid-November.
The Obara area contains over 10,000 Shikizakura trees in total, with the Senmi area holding the highest concentration.
The name 'Shikizakura' translates directly to 'four-seasons cherry tree' due to its ability to bloom twice a year.
Senmi Shikizakura no Sato is home to approximately 1,200 Shikizakura trees, a rare species of cherry blossom that blooms twice annually in spring and autumn. The site is uniquely recognized for the simultaneous display of pale pink cherry blossoms and vibrant crimson autumn maple leaves during mid-to-late November. Located in the Obara district of Toyota, the park functions as the central point for the local Shikizakura Festival. The trees were originally planted in the early 19th century by a physician named Genseki Fujimoto, who brought a seedling from Nagoya. The hilly terrain provides layered views of the blossoming canopy against the backdrop of the Aichi countryside. The area is maintained as a public park with established walking paths leading through the groves. It remains one of the few places in Japan where visitors can witness seasonal overlap on a large scale.
The upper observation platform which offers a panoramic view looking down over the intersection of cherry trees and maple foliage.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the terrain is hilly and involves sloping paths.
Arrive early in the day to secure parking and avoid the peak crowd times during the festival season.
Bring a tripod if you intend to capture the blossoms at dusk, as natural light fades quickly behind the hills.
Attempting to visit during the summer months when the trees are solely green and not in their characteristic double-bloom phase.
The site experiences its peak visitor influx during the Shikizakura Festival held throughout November.
Do not touch or climb the cherry trees; stay on marked paths to protect the root systems.
