Winter is still in full swing across the Japanese archipelago. Everyone is eagerly awaiting spring, aren't they?
Meanwhile, in the southern island of Okinawa, cherry blossom season has already begun. The mountains are adorned with cherry blossoms of a deeper pink color, slightly different from those on the main island of Honshu.
So, this time, I'd like to introduce a cherry blossom event in Nakijin Village, one of the famous cherry blossom viewing spots on Okinawa Island.
Why not take a trip to Okinawa to experience an early taste of spring?

<Table of Contents>
1. What is the "Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival"?
2. Reasons why the "Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival" is popular
3. 2026 "19th Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival" Event Schedule
4. Detailed information and access to Nakijin Castle Ruins
5. Enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms and World Heritage sites ♡

The "Nakijin Gusuku Sakura Festival" is an event held at the Nakijin Castle Ruins, a World Heritage Site.

Okinawa's Kanhizakura (also known as Hikanzakura), is known as "Japan's earliest blooming cherry blossom."
As February approaches, you can see bright pink flowers in various places throughout the prefecture.

Nakijin Castle Ruins is one of the best spots in Okinawa Prefecture to see the Taiwan cherry blossoms.
It's a popular spot that attracts many visitors every year!

©OCVB

Vibrant pink cherry blossoms against the curved stone walls of the castle—

As many of you may already know, the cherry blossoms and castles in Okinawa have a slightly different atmosphere compared to those you see on the mainland.

The combination of the sturdy stone walls and the delicate Taiwan cherry blossoms is truly fantastical.
In particular, the stone-paved path leading from "Heiromon" gate, where cherry blossoms bloom on both sides, to "Umya" is breathtakingly beautiful ♡

It's no wonder that people come from both within and outside the prefecture just to catch a glimpse of this magnificent collaboration. But that's not the only reason why the Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival is so popular!

The Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival is also appealing because of the abundance of events it features.

During the festival period, various events are held mainly on Saturdays and Sundays at the "Heiromon Square" inside Nakijin Castle and at the adjacent "Gusuku Exchange Center".

Since it's a festival, you want to enjoy it to the fullest, right?
The 19th Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival in 2026 will be held from January 17th (Sat) to February 1st (Sun) (see below for details). There will be some kind of event every day during this period!

©OCVB

Among the festival's most popular events is the "Nakijin Castle Ruins and Cherry Blossom Illumination."

You can enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms and castle walls every day from 18:00 PM to 21:00 PM (last entry at 20:30 PM).
This is definitely recommended even for people who have already been to Nakijin Castle Ruins.

Incidentally, the last day of the festival is usually very crowded every year.

Also, there are stairs and uneven terrain inside the castle. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential.
Please be sure to take precautions and enjoy yourselves, not only with young children but also with adults!

Of course, there are plenty of other exciting events at the Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival.
This time, we'll be highlighting some of our top recommendations. Hopefully, this will help you when planning your trip!

The Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival will feature various events throughout the festival period, including daily illuminations, an opening ceremony, performing arts presentations, and a direct sale of products from Nakijin Village.

[Events held daily]
■Nakijin Castle Ruins and Cherry Blossom Illumination
Time: 18:00 - 21:00 (Last entry 20:30)

[2026, 19th Nakijin Gusuku Cherry Blossom Festival]
■Period: Saturday, January 2026th, 1 to Sunday, March 17th, 2
■Inquiries: Nakijin Gusuku Festival Executive Committee
TEL：0980-56-2256
■Inquiries during the festival: Nakijin Village Gusuku Exchange Center
TEL：0980-56-4400

[Nakijin Castle Ruins: Detailed Information]
■Address: 5101 Imadomari, Nakijin Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture
■TEL: 0980-56-4400 (Nakijin Castle Ruins Management Office)
■Closed days: Open all year round
■Admission fee: Adults: 600 yen / Elementary, junior high, and high school students: 450 yen
*Children under elementary school age are admitted free of charge. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the Gusuku Exchange Center.

[Access to Nakijin Castle Ruins]
From Naha Airport, take the Naha Airport Expressway to Kyoda Interchange.
After that, head towards Nago/Motobu, via National Route 58, the journey time: approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

The Kanhizakura cherry blossoms in Okinawa are at their best in early February. The vibrant pink blossoms against the blue sky create a special sight that can only be seen at this time of year.

Still cold? Not at all! Spring has already arrived in Okinawa!
Enjoy an early taste of spring with this luxurious collaboration of lovely cherry blossoms and elegant World Heritage sites ♡

Please make your hotel reservation here.

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