05-05-2025
Japan Photo Journal: Cherry blossoms flower in deep-snow village in Yamagata Pref.
Cherry blossoms bloom over a snow-covered field in the village of Okura, Yamagata Prefecture, on May 1, 2025. Known as one of Japan's heaviest snowfall areas, the village is experiencing the blossoms at their peak amid lingering snow, as visitors take in the arrival of spring. Fifteen cherry trees, including the North Japanese hill cherry, are planted at a park golf course near the Hijiori Onsen hot spring resort. The pink petals stand out against the white snow. Last year, record-low snowfall made it difficult to view the flowers and snow together, but this year's abundant snowfall has brought the spectacle back. Hiroyuki Yakuwa, 68, of the nonprofit organization Ohkura Sport, which manages the Kankaneno Park Golf Country, commented, "After a harsh winter, seeing this scenery makes me feel that the long-awaited spring has finally arrived."
(Japanese original by Kan Takeuchi, Yamagata Bureau)
