Shiogamazakura Starting to Bloom at Shiogama Shrine [SPOT REPORT]

The main hanami area, still with some great trees to see.

     April 11th proved to be an excellent day for walking to Shiogama Shrine to see if the Shiogamazakura was in bloom yet. That's the special double petalled cherry blossoms that are famous in this area and a symbol of the city. The walk up to the shrine felt swifter than usual in the great weather, but visitors with mobility issues should come by car and park in the hanami area parking lot for ease of access.

In case you need a refresher on the treasured tree, this placard and a free printout wait at the base of the main Shiogamazakura tree in the main shrine area.

So puffy! But still with some buds!

The tree is gorgeous but the backdrop of the shrine buildings adds a little something.

Lots of buds, it turns out.

     The biggest Shiogamazakura tree that I've found is inside of the main shrine complex, nestled between the two main shrines. I was elated to find that the blossoms on this main tree were approaching full bloom. Luckily, they were not quite there yet, with some small blossoms still in bud form, just beginning to unfurl. This meant that I could take in the shape without a barrage of windswept petals being torn assunder.

Not Shiogamazakura, but still lovely and blooming.

Inside the main gate to the shrine.

     In addition to the Shiogamazakara, of which there are several scattered about, there were also a couple of other kinds of tree in bloom including most of the trees that have drooping limbs with flowers.

Near the view of the bay, more blossoms beckon.

     The weather was fine and the crowds were minimal. It was a great day for seeing some blossoms. It is my assessment that most weekdays are probably similar but those wanting to behold the Shiogamazakura in all of its glory will want to make a trip soon.