10 Things to Do at the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival (津山桜まつり) in Okayama, Japan



The Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival (津山桜まつり) in Okayama, Japan is one of the most beautiful and unique festivals in the country. Every spring, the city of Tsuyama comes alive with the beauty of cherry blossoms and the joy of the festival. From traditional events to modern activities, the festival offers something for everyone. Here are 10 things to do at the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival.

1. Enjoy the View of the Cherry Blossoms

The highlight of the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival is, of course, the stunning view of the cherry blossoms. Over five million cherry trees line the streets of Tsuyama, creating a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. Visitors can take a stroll through the city and enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

2. Take a Boat Ride Through the Cherry Blossoms

For a unique experience, visitors can take a boat ride through the cherry blossoms. The boat tours take visitors through the canals of Tsuyama, offering stunning views of the cherry blossoms from a different perspective.

3. Visit the Tsuyama Castle

The Tsuyama Castle is a must-see during the festival. The castle is a 400-year-old structure that overlooks the city. During the festival, the castle is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a beautiful sight.

4. Take Part in the Traditional Events

The Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival is also home to many traditional events. The festival includes parades, traditional dances, and other activities that celebrate the culture of Tsuyama.

5. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Tsuyama is known for its delicious local cuisine. During the festival, visitors can sample some of the city’s best dishes, such as tsuyamanabe (a stewed beef dish) and tsuyama-yaki (a grilled beef dish).

6. Visit the Tsuyama Art Museum

The Tsuyama Art Museum is a great place to visit during the festival. The museum features a variety of artworks from the Edo period, as well as modern art.

7. Enjoy the Local Shopping

Tsuyama is home to many unique shops and boutiques. Visitors can explore the city’s streets and find unique souvenirs to take home.

8. Attend a Concert

During the festival, visitors can attend a variety of concerts. From traditional Japanese music to modern pop, there are plenty of concerts to choose from.

9. Watch a Fireworks Show

The festival ends with a spectacular fireworks show. The fireworks are launched from the Tsuyama Castle, creating a beautiful sight.

10. Visit the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival Museum

The Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival Museum is a great place to learn more about the festival. The museum features exhibits about the history of the festival, as well as displays of traditional costumes and artifacts.

The Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival is a truly unique experience. From the stunning view of the cherry blossoms to the traditional events and activities, there is something for everyone at the festival. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll through the city or a fun-filled day of activities, the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.