Cherry Blossoms – Hanitsu Shrine

On April 27, 2025, the cherry blossoms at Hanitsu Shrine in Inawashiro Town, Fukushima Prefecture were in their full glory. Under a flawless blue sky, the shrine grounds were awash in delicate shades of pink, with petals fluttering gently in the breeze—an unforgettable scene of Japanese spring at its finest.

Photoes were taken on that day, capturing not only the peak of the blossoms but also a rare and moving moment of human celebration.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Bandai, Hanitsu Shrine is a deeply spiritual site, dedicated to Hoshina Masayuki, the first lord of the Aizu domain and adopted son of Tokugawa Hidetada. Surrounded by towering cedar trees and historic stone lanterns, the shrine exudes a quiet reverence that connects visitors to centuries of Aizu history and tradition.

On this special spring day, however, the solemnity of the shrine was joined by joy and romance. Beneath the blooming cherry trees, a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony was held, adding to the magic of the season. The bride and groom, dressed in elegant kimono, exchanged vows as petals danced around them—a perfect harmony of nature, culture, and life’s milestones.

Hanitsu Shrine, though not as widely known as other cherry blossom spots in Japan, offers a truly profound and picturesque hanami experience. It is a place where history, natural beauty, and personal memories come together, leaving visitors with lasting impressions of the soul of Japan.

https://hanitsujinja.jp/