Japan's Oldest Cherry Tree

Yamataka Jindai Sakura is one of Japan’s three major cherry blossoms trees. Located in Mukawa-cho, Hokuto-shi, Yamanashi Prefecture, it is about 2,000 years old and is famous for being the oldest Japanese cherry tree!

It is also the biggest cherry tree in Japan. A legend remains that "Yamato Takeru" planted this sakura. No wonder it has been recognized as a national natural treasure since 1922.

The cherry tree representing Japan is a variety called Somei Yoshino. Most Japanese cherry blossoms"Somei Yoshino" are younger than 100 years old.

Yamataka Jindai Sakura is a variety of sakura called Edohigansakura. It’s really special because it looks quite different from the Someiyoshino cherry trees often found in cherry blossom sightseeing spots in Japan.

It has branches spreading in all directions like a huge potted plant. I think it’s really unique..... almost like a piece of art!

There was a period when the tree almost died due to aging after 2,000 years of growth. Good thing, the agricultural department of the local university and tree doctors took on the project of nursing it back to health.

After several years, it finally regained its health! The tree is well loved by the locals and, every year, many Japanese from all over the country come to visit it.

So if you are visiting Japan in spring, don’t miss out on this! In addition, I also shot the famous cherry blossoms nearby and my local cherry blossoms.

Please look at Japanese old cherry blossoms.

More info: hidenobu.jp