Mt. Yaedake, rising on the Motobu Peninsula, is a famous spot for Okinawa’s Kanhi-zakura (Taiwan cherry), billed as “the earliest-blooming cherry blossoms in Japan.” During the “Motobu Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival” around late January every year, you can enjoy an avenue of deep pink blossoms running from the mountainside to the summit.
The Motobu Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival is usually held from late January to early February. Check the Motobu Town Tourism Association for the latest bloom conditions
Peak times are typical guides. Blooming and full bloom shift with each year’s temperatures.
About 7,000 Kanhi-zakura dye the roadsides from the middle slopes to the summit of 453 m Mt. Yaedake deep pink, heralding the earliest arrival of spring in Japan.
The festival venue, with cherry trees around the park and an open plaza
A road lined with Kanhi-zakura from the mountainside to the summit
Prices and availability are shown on Agoda.
AquariumOkinawa ・ Motobu & Churaumi
This aquarium sits in Ocean Expo Park on the Motobu Peninsula in northern Okinawa Island. Its exhibits trace the creatures of Okinawa’s waters in sequence, from coral reefs out to the open ocean. It’s about 2 hours by car or about 2.5 hours by express bus from Naha Airport.
Theme parkOkinawa ・ Nakijin / Nago
An immersive, nature-themed park that opened in July 2025 near the Yanbaru forest in northern Okinawa Island. Set on vast grounds that were once a golf course, it offers a dinosaur safari, aerial attractions, a spa with spectacular views, and restaurants serving Okinawan ingredients.
ZooOkinawa ・ Nago
A zoo in Nago City whose official name is Nago Nature Botanical and Zoological Park. It uses what is said to be Japan's largest flying-cage system, and many animals roam freely in the park. Walking through areas themed on Africa, South America, and Oceania, you can experience how close you get to the animals.
Castle
ParkPeak periods, hours, prices and access are based on official sources such as the spot’s own website, local governments and tourism associations. Bloom conditions and event details can change, so check the official website before you go.
Last checked: 2026-10-06
