KochiTravel

At This Cherry Blossom Spot Ranked in Japan's Top 100 - Trace Flowers Dear to Dr. Makino

About this spot

A park sprawling across the mountainside overlooking Sakawa town, selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots and a premier flower destination in Kochi Prefecture. Maintained as a park dedicated to botanist Dr. Makino Tomitaro, who was born and raised here, the grounds feature flowers he loved, including Baika-ouran, planted seasonally throughout the park. Hiking up the walking path leads to Dr. Makino's grave and also the tomb of Mitsuaken Tanaka, a hero, allowing visitors to enjoy both flower walks and historical sightseeing simultaneously—a unique experience to Sakawa. From the mid-slope observation platform, the white-walled, tiled-roof townscape spreads beneath your feet, offering a fitting view to conclude the day.

Tips

The entrance is near Aoyama Library; walk up from the base parking lot. The mountain-path walking trails have gradients, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Flowers with peak bloom times change seasonally, so check the directional signs in the park to discover more. Descend before dusk when visibility decreases.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours required. As evening approaches, the setting sun illuminates the townscape beautifully, and the view from the observation platform is stunning.