To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Uda City, the city will host the Uda River Cherry Blossom Promenade Illumination starting March 28, 2026.

During the event, a 600-meter section of cherry trees along the Uda River, from near Haibara Sun City to the Shinraku area, will be gently illuminated each evening. The warm lighting highlights the blossoms in a way that feels calm and atmospheric, offering a completely different experience from daytime hanami.

One of the most memorable sights is the reflection of the glowing trees on the river’s surface. When the water is still, the blossoms appear mirrored below, creating a striking “upside-down sakura” view that draws photographers and evening strollers alike.

The cherry blossom trees along the Uda River are one of the city’s best-known spring attractions. In total, the rows of trees extend about 2.5 kilometers from Haibara Shimoiashi to Ouda Itsutsu.

Near the Shinraku area, the blossoms are sometimes called Kariji no Sakura, a name inspired by poetry from the ancient Man’yoshu anthology. Blooming from late March to early April, the scenery blends gentle riverside landscapes with echoes of Japan’s literary past.

Cherry blossoms in Japan are beautiful by day, but nighttime illuminations reveal a completely different side of the season. Along the Uda River, glowing blossoms and their mirror-like reflections create a calm, romantic atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustle of larger sakura spots.

If you have time to explore a little further, consider pairing your visit with a stop at Onodera Temple, located about a 13-minute train ride and short walk from Haibara Station. The temple is home to a particularly famous cherry tree said to be around 300 years old, making it another memorable place to experience spring in Uda.