Neodani Usuzumi Sakura: A Miraculous Lone Cherry More Than 1,500 Years Old

More than 1,500 years old, a single cherry tree that has survived a dizzyingly long stretch of time stands quietly in the mountains of Gifu. The Neodani Usuzumi Sakura in Motosu City, Gifu Prefecture, is a famous cherry known for its mystical appearance: pale pink as it begins to bloom, white at full bloom, and petals that turn a pale ink color as they fall. Its everlasting vitality and noble beauty count it among Japans Three Great Cherry Trees, and it is designated a national natural monument. Many people visit from across Japan for a single glimpse of its form.

Highlights

The Neodani Usuzumi Sakura is an aged tree of the Edohigan variety, said to be more than 1,500 years old. About 16 meters tall, its dignified form with branches spread widely in all directions is overwhelming. According to legend, it was planted by Emperor Keitai when he left this land, evoking the romance of a long history. It is counted among Japans Three Great Cherry Trees alongside the Miharu Takizakura of Fukushima and the Yamataka Jindai Zakura of Yamanashi.

Over such a long span of years, the cherry faced the danger of dying many times. Yet each time, treatment and protection given by many hands kept its life going to this day. The story of the passion of people who have kept protecting a single cherry is also a great part of its appeal. Standing firm against wind and snow, its form quietly speaks of the preciousness and strength of life.

The source of the name Usuzumi Sakura, or pale ink cherry, is the rare feature that its flowers take on a faint ink color as they fall. Pale pink as buds, a pure white at full bloom, and then a distinctive shade like poured pale ink as it scatters. This shifting color of the flowers is the very reason it is called usuzumi.

Seasonal Enjoyment

The best viewing time is generally spring, and because the blooming period varies from year to year, it is reassuring to check bloom information before visiting. During peak season it is lively with many flower viewers. The full-bloom sight of flowers spreading across the whole sky when you look up is overwhelming. During peak season, nighttime illumination is also held, and the fantastical figure of the aged cherry rising out of the darkness brings a different kind of emotion from the daytime. Cherry-lined avenues and daffodils are also planted around it, and it is maintained as a park.

Access and Basic Information

Access is about a 15-minute walk from Tarumi Station on the Tarumi Railway. From the Nagoya and Gifu direction, head for Tarumi Station, the terminus of the Tarumi Railway. By car, parking is provided nearby, but during the season it is extremely crowded and the surrounding roads become congested. Consider using public transportation as well, and allow plenty of time. Viewing itself is free.

Practical Travel Notes

The best season is only spring, at flowering time, and because the timing of blooming and full bloom changes each year, always check bloom information before visiting. To avoid crowds, weekdays or early-morning visits are recommended. Viewing takes about 30 minutes to an hour, but during the season parking and congestion take time, so plan with plenty of margin. Because the mountains grow cold morning and night, it is reassuring to have a warm jacket. Nearby spots worth visiting include the satoyama scenery along the Tarumi Railway and famous cherry spots in Motosu and Gifu City, making a spring trip chasing the cherry-blossom front enjoyable. The budget centers on transport and starts from a few thousand yen even including food.

A Word of Advice

The Usuzumi Sakura is a rare cherry whose flower color shifts through early bloom, full bloom, and falling. If time allows, aiming to visit at both full bloom and the falling stage lets you truly sense the pale-ink change that gives it its name. During the season both parking and roads are very crowded, so if possible aim for weekdays or early morning and visit with plenty of time to spare.

📚 Sources

The content here is organized from official tourism information on Motosu City and the Usuzumi cherry tree, public information on the Tarumi Railway, and on-site guidance. The blooming and peak timing of the cherry blossoms vary greatly by year, as do the illumination and parking operations. Weekends at peak bloom are especially crowded. Because fees, hours, and access can change, please confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Time needed: Thirty minutes to an hour to view the Usuzumi cherry tree alone, or about a half day with a nearby stroll.
• What to bring: Early spring is still cold, so bring warm clothing, and wear comfortable shoes for walking outdoors.
• Suggested route: View the Usuzumi cherry tree, then tour the satoyama scenery along the Tarumi Railway and nearby cherry-blossom spots.
• Timing and crowds: Peak bloom shifts by year, so checking bloom information before you go is reassuring. Peak weekends are especially crowded.
• Combining nearby: Pairing famous cherry spots in Motosu and central Gifu City lets you follow the spring blossom front.