Cherry-blossom spots near Ikaho (1)
Maebashi recently issued a Somei-yoshino bloom declaration. This year again we will introduce cherry-blossom spots near Ikaho, in several notes.
1. The weeping cherry at Konzō-ji
A tree about 400 years old, and a Gunma Prefecture designated natural monument. Because the bloom coincides with the planting of taro, it is also called “imo-tane zakura.” The flowers are white. It was designated in 1952.
- Best viewing: typically late March through early April
- Address: 1965 Kanai, Shibukawa
- Variety: weeping cherry (shidare-zakura)
2. Saku Power Station
TEPCO’s hydropower station, also known as Saku Power Station. About 100 cherries are planted around the penstock — the large water pipe. In hanami season visitors come from nearby towns. The 80-meter tower is a local landmark.
- Best viewing: typically early through mid-April
- Address: 2372-1 Makabe, Kitatachibana-machi, Shibukawa
- Variety: Somei-yoshino
Saku Power Station is in Kitatachibana, the same district as Ochiai Yana. The next note is Cherry-blossom spots near Ikaho (2).