Hanami Season in Honshū’s Far North

Sargent cherry trees in full bloom as far as the eye can see. (Photo courtesy of Iwakisan Tourist Association)

Snowcapped Mount Iwaki peers over the shoulder of some of the cherry trees. (Photo courtesy of Iwakisan Tourist Association)

A walking path covered by an arch of spreading trees. (Photo courtesy of Iwakisan Tourist Association)

The higan-zakura tree branches curve elegantly downward in full bloom. (Photo courtesy of Morioka Tourism and Convention Association

Seen from below, the shidare (weeping) cherry trees are very impressive indeed. (Photo courtesy of Morioka Tourism and Convention Association)

Strolling through the water treatment plant grounds, taking in the trees. (Photo courtesy of Morioka Tourism and Convention Association)

Pink cherry blossoms bloom as if overlaid on beds of yellow nanohana flowers. (Photo courtesy of the Ōgata Village General Affairs Division)

Cherries and nanohana combine in a vivid color combination that shouts “spring.” (Photo courtesy of the Ōgata Village General Affairs Division)

Weather permitting, steam and electric model railroads let visitors of all ages see the mustard fields up close. (Photo courtesy of the Ōgata Village General Affairs Division)