Rare Japanese endemic cherry trees are now in full bloom at the former residence of a “cherry blossom doctor

Okamoto Minami Park (Higashinada-ku, Kobe) is located just a short walk northwest from the north ticket gate of Hankyu Okamoto Station. The rare varieties of cherry trees planted in this small park are now at their best.

The park is the former residence of Shintaro Sasabe, a botanist who was known as the “cherry blossom doctor” for his efforts to protect and nurture Japan’s traditional cherry tree species, saying, “Someiyoshino is not the only type of cherry tree.

Kobe City purchased the property and developed it into a park in 1981.

Mr. Sasabe was the model for Tsutomu Mizukami’s novel “The Cherry Blossom Guard,” and he also managed and directed the cherry trees at the Osaka Mint, a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, and at Shukugawa Park in Nishinomiya City.

The park is planted with about 30 cherry trees of 10 varieties, including the “Sasabezakura,” named after Mr. Sasabe.

The sasabe-zakura is a natural hybrid variety that sprouted in Mr. Sasabe’s garden. Unfortunately, the original tree seems to have died, but a second generation seedling grown from a tree taken from a seedling has been planted in the same spot.

Upon closer inspection, one can see that the flowers bloom densely around the branches and are a mixture of white, pink, and other colors. The flowers are pure white at the beginning of blooming, and then change to light red and red from the center.

There is also a small waterfall and a pond, which provide a contrast to the cherry blossoms. There are also varieties that will be in full bloom in the near future, such as the Okamoto cherry tree and the Yaeveni weeping cherry tree.

Although the site is small, it is a healing spot with many rare varieties of cherry trees. Benches are available, so it is a good place to take a break with children or for a stroll. It is also a good place to stop by while enjoying Okamoto’s cafes and shopping.

Detailed information

Location

Okamoto Minami Park (Sakura Mamoru Park)
(5-6-16 Okamoto, Higashinada-ku, Kobe)
Google Map

Inquiries

078-771-7498
(Road Park 110)