The Motoara River Cherry Blossom festival in Fukiage is another of Saitama’s well known locations for hanami (cherry blossom festival), especially with locals. It may not be in the top 100 spots to view cherry blossoms, but it is in the best 500 list! It is also ranked high within the prefecture’s top cherry blossom spots. 

The river is lined with cherry blossoms mainly of the somei yoshino variety. There are about 700 cherry blossom trees in total. They typically bloom early April. They hang cherry blossom lanterns from the tree during the blooming period and they are lit up at night.

Motoara River Cherry Blossom Festival

This year’s cherry blossom festival is on a week earlier than last year. The dates are March 30th and 31st. The festival will take place between 10 am and 4 pm. 

During that time they will have some festival stalls selling food and drink. They also have live stage performances.  One of the most popular elements of this festival is the Yakatabune. A Yakatabune is a unique Japanese-style wooden tour boat. Traditionally they were essentially a party boat. You may not be able to have a party on the boat at the Motoara River Cherry Blossom Festival, but you can enjoy the stunning scenery as you cruise down the river.

Pets are allowed. They discourage people from securing a place to picnic, i.e. you can’t put a mat down with no people at it.

Cherry Blossom Light Up

During the period of the cherry blossoms in full bloom, they are lit up at night.

Access Moto Arakawa River Cherry Blossom Festival

A five minute walk from the North exit of JR Takasaki Line’s Fukiage station.

There is no official parking for this event. They request that you come by public transport.

From the official website:

Another place you can enjoy a boat ride under cherry blossoms is in Kawagoe:

Boat Ride on Shingashi River at back of Hikawa Shrine | KAWAGOE

For even more seasonal events please see the Saitama main events calendar.