Cherry Blossoms in Autumn? The Shikizakura Trees of Obara

Updated October 24, 2026 | By Tokyo Paul

Cherry blossoms are famous as a symbol of spring, which makes the idea of cherry blossoms in autumn feel like a delightful surprise. Yet such trees do exist. In Obara, a district of Toyota in Aichi Prefecture, rare trees called shikizakura are known to bloom in both spring and autumn. This article introduces what the trees are, what Wikipedia says about them, and how to plan a visit in the cooler months with sensible expectations. Because blooming dates and events vary from year to year, always confirm current details from official sources before traveling.

What Is Shikizakura?

The word shikizakura combines shiki, "four seasons," and zakura, from sakura, "cherry." The name suggests a cherry tree that is associated with more than one season. Wikipedia's article on Obara states that Obara is the only place in Japan where 10,000 rare shikizakura cherry trees grow, which bloom twice a year in spring and autumn.

That claim comes from a general reference page, so treat it as a description rather than an official count, and check local tourism information if the exact number matters to you. What is clear from the article is the key idea: these trees are known for blooming twice, not only in the spring.

A Little History

According to the same Wikipedia page, the trees are said to have originated in the early 1800s. The page tells a story in which the samurai physician Fujimoto Genseki was presented with one of the trees from a temple in Nagoya. Whether or not you take every detail of such origin stories literally, they show how local people have long valued these trees and have told stories about them.

How Autumn Blossoms Differ From Spring

If you expect the same experience as spring hanami, adjust your expectations. Spring cherry viewing is famous for a dramatic, sudden burst of blossoms that covers the branches. By contrast, autumn blooming of this kind is often described by visitors as more modest and quiet. That is a general impression rather than something the Wikipedia page claims, and the actual display can vary with the weather and the year. The pleasure is in the surprise of seeing blossoms among autumn colors, not in a spring-style spectacle.

Another difference is the surrounding scenery. In autumn you may see delicate blossoms alongside changing leaves, with cooler air and clearer skies. It is a good reminder that Japan's seasonal beauty does not follow a single script.

Why It Matters Now

At this time of year, much of the attention in Japan turns to autumn foliage. A forecast reported by Nippon.com from the Japan Meteorological Corporation expected foliage to peak somewhat later in 2026 than in a typical year. If you are traveling in the coming weeks and want something a little unusual, a place with autumn cherry blossoms offers a different angle on the season. As always, check current information, because bloom conditions change with the weather and with the individual trees.

Planning a Visit

Because the Wikipedia page does not give festival dates, it is best not to assume any. Use these steps to plan.

Search for current official information from the city of Toyota or local tourism sources for this year's blooming status and events.
Check transportation options in advance, since smaller areas may have limited services. Look for details on buses and any shuttle arrangements.
Plan a flexible day. Weather can affect both the blossoms and your comfort.
Dress in layers. Autumn mornings and evenings can be cool.
Bring a small bag for trash and respect any signs about areas that are closed.
Have a backup plan, such as nearby sights, in case the blossoms are sparse.

Etiquette and Care

As with any blossom viewing, treat the trees gently. Do not climb them or pull branches for photos. Stay on paths, follow staff instructions, and give other visitors space. Photography is welcome in many places, but be considerate about blocking walkways. If you are visiting a farm or private property, ask for permission and follow posted rules.

Photographing Autumn Blossoms

Pale blossoms against bright autumn leaves can create wonderful contrast. A few general ideas may help.

Look for backgrounds of deep green or warm red, which make pale petals stand out.
Use soft light in the morning or late afternoon.
Try close-ups of single flowers and branches, which can be effective when the blossoms are sparse.
Include the autumn scene around the tree to tell the story of two seasons at once.

About Obara Itself

Wikipedia describes Obara as a former village in Nishikamo District in north-central Aichi Prefecture, and says it was well known as the home of traditional washi mulberry paper. The village was created on July 1, 1906, by merging four hamlets, and on April 1, 2005, it was merged with other towns and villages into the expanded city of Toyota. That means you may find the area listed under Toyota in current maps and transport information, so search with both names when you plan.

What the Page Says About the Trees

The article says Obara is the only place in Japan where 10,000 rare shikizakura cherry trees grow, and that the trees bloom twice a year, in spring and autumn. It adds that the trees are said to have originated in the early 1800s, when a samurai physician named Fujimoto Genseki received one from a temple in Nagoya. The page presents that origin as a tradition, so treat it as a story that is told, not a record you can verify. When you read other sources, compare the numbers and dates, because figures about tree counts can vary by source and season.

A Note on Memory and Safety

The page records that on July 13, 1972, heavy rains triggered landslides that partly destroyed the village and killed 32 people. It is worth keeping this in mind when you visit a rural, hilly area, because weather can change conditions on roads and slopes. Check the forecast, follow local guidance and signs, and avoid walking on steep or wet ground when conditions look poor. If a heavy rain warning is in effect, postpone your trip.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Autumn blossoms are usually sparser than spring blossoms, so do not expect a cloud of pink like the famous spring displays. The charm is in the surprise of flowers set against autumn colors. Bring a camera or phone that handles small details well, and be prepared for variable light. If you can, ask local tourism offices or official event pages how the trees are doing before you travel, since timing differs from year to year.

Practical Tips for a Rural Day Trip

Rural areas often have limited public transport, so check schedules and last return times in advance. Carry cash for small shops, bring water and a layer for changing temperatures, and carry your trash with you. Keep to marked paths, do not pick blossoms or branches, and respect private land. Plan for slower walking than you might expect, because the best views may be at the end of a gentle climb. A relaxed pace, a simple plan, and flexibility about timing will make the visit more enjoyable.

Questions People Ask

Do the trees bloom in both seasons every year? The Wikipedia page says they bloom twice a year, in spring and autumn. Actual conditions vary, so check the current situation.

Is this the same as the usual cherry blossom season? No. The usual season, according to Wikipedia's article on hanami, runs from the end of March to early May across Japan. The autumn blooms are a separate seasonal event.

Will the blossoms look like the spring display? Probably not. Expect something more delicate, and enjoy it for its own character.

Is it worth a special trip? That depends on your interests. If you love plants, seasonal curiosities, or photography, it can be a rewarding addition to an autumn itinerary. If you want a classic blossom experience, plan for spring.

A Different Kind of Hanami

There is something charming about the idea that cherry blossoms can appear in a season we do not expect. It is a reminder that Japan's traditions are flexible enough to appreciate beauty whenever it appears. Even if you cannot visit Obara, you can enjoy the thought, and perhaps plan for the usual blossoms in spring.

Keep Exploring

If you enjoy cherry blossom scenery, Tokyo Paul's Japan Cherry Blossom Photobook (Japan Photography Series) is described on Amazon as a photo book of cherry blossom photographs at numerous locations, with location names and brief descriptions. See Japan Cherry Blossom Photobook on Amazon