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Just a few more weeks till the most magical time of year kicks off in the land of the rising sun.  Whilst it is no secret that cherry blossom (sakura) season, draws visitors and attention every year, you may be surprised to discover a range of off-the-beaten-track sakura experiences in some of Japan’s lesser-visited areas.In Kinosaki Onsen, Japan’s authentic hot spring town, the best way to enjoy sakura is by indulging in night-time viewing (known as yozakura), an experience made extra special thanks to the town’s blossoms being lit up using paper lanterns at night.

Willows which line the downstream portion of the Otani river that runs through the centre of the town are a symbol of Kinosaki, but there are also about 80 cherry blossom trees that line the river upstream for more than 500 metres, starting from the main bridge by Ichino-yu.

Visit Kinosaki shares some unique experiences for those who want to enjoy sakura season like the locals:

Wear a yukata (a Japanese cotton robe) and view the cherry blossoms while taking a stroll: A fundamental part of enjoying Kinosaki Onsen is by visiting the public hot springs while wearing yukata. Change into your yukata at the ryokan, and stroll through town while enjoying sights of beautiful cherry blossoms and listening to the clip-clop sounds of geta (Japanese wooden sandals).

Enjoy a spring onsen: What better way to top off your sakura experience than indulging in the town’s renowned onsens? From outdoor cave baths to ice saunas, Kinosaki’s bathhouses are the ultimate wellness heaven.

Visit a picturesque seaside village: Takeno, a quiet fishing village and beach area, also has many trees that blossom. Just ten minutes on the JR train from Kinosaki Onsen, walk about 15 minutes from Takeno Station down to the beach to witness the pinks of the sakura mixing with the blues of the Sea of Japan.

Sakura viewing like a local: For the ultimate local experience, spread out a blanket under the cherry blossom trees, a tradition called hanami in Japan. One great place to partake in this tradition is in Izushi, a traditional castle town near Kinosaki Onsen.

Useful information: Cherry blossom season in Kinosaki Onsen starts end of March with blossoms being in full bloom from beginning to mid-April. The cherry blossoms lining the Otani river stay lit up until 11 pm.

For more information, visit: https://visitkinosaki.com/cherry-blossoms/