Today's Three: Events to Enjoy Sakura Season in Japan

Today's Three: events to enjoy sakura season in japan

1/25/2023

Just like Mt. Fuji or the Great Wave off Kanagawa, sakura cherry blossoms in the spring are quintessentially Japanese. There's no better sign of spring than the soft hues of pink and white that mark the beginning of warmer temperatures and longer days. Perhaps one of the most popular times for visitors to Japan, March and April are also a fantastic time to put on your running shoes or get on the saddle.

Whether it's on your two feet or on two wheels, these three events around Japan are a good way to enjoy sakura season:

Hitachi Sakura Road Race (Ibaraki)
Aomori Sakura Marathon (Aomori)
Alps Azumino Century Ride - Sakura Group (Nagano)

Hitachi Sakura Road Race (Ibaraki) | Apr 2

General Entry: Jan 23-Feb 20, 2023 (closes once full)
5k, 10k, Half Marathon, plus junior distances (1.8k, 2.2k)
Hitachi City is famous for its cherry blossoms, and the rows of sakura trees along Heiwa-dori Avenue has been selected as one of the "100 best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan" - it's also where the start is.
Course runs on the Hitachi Seaside Road, which is normally closed to pedestrians.

Aomori Sakura Marathon (Aomori) | Apr 16

General Entry: Nov 25, 2022-Feb 28, 2023
10k, Half Marathon (JAAF certified), Full Marathon (JAAF certified)
A to B race starting at Nogiwa Park, famous for its cherry blossoms, and finishing at Aoikai Park, located on the waterfront near Aomori station.
Fast and flat course with a bit of a climb for the Aomori Bay Bridge, which offers a spectacular view of Mutsu Bay.

Alps Azumino Century Ride - Sakura Group (Nagano) | Apr 23

General Entry: Jan 22-Feb 5, 2023
120k or 160k
A popular non-competitive touring ride from Matsumoto to Hakuba and back. Well-known for spectacular spring scenery past the snow-capped northern Japan Alps and roads lined with sakura trees, often enveloping cyclists in flurries of cherry blossom petals.
Aid stations are well-stocked and part of the 'package' with plenty of local favorites served fresh and/or hot.
Not a closed course. A second ride - Midori Group - is also scheduled in May.