The best time to visit is in mid-April! Enjoy the collaboration of SL and cherry blossoms at "Nichu Line Weeping Cherry Blossom Lined Trees" near JR Kitakata Station, Fukushima

  • Fukushima
  • Sightseeing
Nichinchu Line Shidare-zakura Namiki (rows of weeping cherry trees)
The Nichinchu Line weeping cherry tree avenue is a 5-minute walk from JR Kitakata Station, and was planted along a promenade that was developed on a portion of the former site of the former Japan National Railways Nichinchu Line. In spring, approximately 1,000 weeping cherry trees bloom along the 3-km promenade. Along the promenade, there is a "cherry blossom tunnel" where cherry trees cover overhead, and an SL that used to run on the former Nichchu Line is on display. In addition, the "Kitakata Sakura Festival" held in April, when the weeping cherry trees are in bloom, is also popular, and attracts many visitors.

Collaboration of rows of weeping cherry trees and an SL [Weeping cherry trees along the Nichu Line

In spring, about 1,000 weeping cherry trees bloom along a 3-km stretch of the "Nichinchu Line Memorial Bicycle Pedestrian Path," which was built on the site of the former Japan National Railways Nichinchu Line that was closed in 1984, and the entire area is tinged with a pale pink color. Especially popular is the former Nichichu Line steam locomotive (SL) on display along the promenade, which attracts many visitors as a spot to take a "one-of-a-kind photo" that combines retro and spring scenery, with the soft hues of the weeping cherry trees perfectly contrasting with the black car body. The path leading to the SL train, passing through the archway of cherry blossoms, has a nostalgic atmosphere, as if you have stepped back in time. If you like photography, you should visit this spot at least once, as it symbolizes "Kitakata in spring.
Behind the rows of weeping cherry trees is the SL that used to run on the Nichchu Line!

Details of the "Kitakata Sakura Festival, Cherry Blossom Lighting Up" and information on when the weeping cherry trees will be in full bloom.

The "Kitakata Cherry Blossom Festival" is held in conjunction with the blooming of the rows of weeping cherry trees along the daytime line. The cherry trees along the tree-lined avenue will be illuminated for a limited time, so that visitors can enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms at night!

The best time to see the weeping cherry trees
Mid-April

・ Kitakata Sakura Festival
April 9 (Thu) - 23 (Thu), 2026

・ Night time lighting
April 13 (Mon) - 19 (Sun), 2026 18:30 - 20:00
* The lighting period may change depending on the blooming of the weeping cherry trees.

Admission:
Free
Weeping cherry trees cover overhead like a tunnel, commonly known as the "cherry blossom tunnel.

How to access and requests to visitors

Access: 5-minute walk from JR Kitakata Station! Public transportation is very convenient, especially during the period of full bloom when crowds are expected. On the other hand, if you are driving, it takes about 30 minutes from the Aizu-Wakamatsu IC of the Ban-Etsu Expressway. There are no permanent tourist parking lots in the vicinity, so please check the city's parking lots in advance.

*Temporary tourist parking lots will be open during the Kitakata Cherry Blossom Festival (April 9 (Thu.) to 23 (Thu.), 2026). Please check the official website in advance, as the parking area differs depending on the type of vehicle. Please refrain from parking in the temporary tourist parking lots (at nearby facilities, commercial facilities, private lots, and on the streets).
*Please cooperate with the "Shidare-zakura Namiki Environmental Improvement Cooperation Fund" for the maintenance of the temporary tourist parking lots, restrooms, and other environmental improvements.

In addition, since the weeping cherry trees along the daytime line are adjacent to residential areas, we ask for your cooperation in the following points.
Please refrain from blocking sidewalks and driveways and occupying the area for long periods of time.
Please be careful with pets and noise, and do not disturb residents.
Please be sure to take your garbage home with you.
Please use the permanent and temporary toilets on the promenade.
Please enjoy the weeping cherry trees along the Nichchu Line by observing the rules and manners.
Kitakata Cherry Blossom Festival Temporary sightseeing parking lot

Attractive cherry blossoms are in full bloom both day and night! Let's enjoy the rows of weeping cherry trees on the daytime line!

The Nichchu Line Shidare-zakura Namiki is a superb spot that can be easily visited with excellent access, only a 5-minute walk from JR Kitakata Station. The "Kitakata Cherry Blossom Festival" scheduled to be held again this year will allow you to enjoy the spring in a festive atmosphere. At night, the cherry blossoms are lit up to create a fantastic "nighttime cherry blossom corridor. It is attractive to be able to enjoy both day and night.♪ Why not spend a memorable moment that can only be experienced in Kitakata in spring?
Weeping cherry trees along the Nichchu Line are a springtime tradition that can be enjoyed by all generations
Kitakata City Official Website Introduction of the Nichu Line weeping cherry tree avenue
*Information provided by: Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division, Industry Department, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture
*Image provided by: Kitakata Tourism and Products Association
*All photos are images.
The information is current as of February 2026. The blooming time of weeping cherry trees is subject to change.

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable price individual travel product available only on the web. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to get a discount as early as the day of departure. We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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