By Scott Kawaguchi (Oita City 2013-2015)

BLOSSOM PERIOD: LATE MARCH - MID APRIL

Despite its relative proximity to Oita's not-so-pretty industrial east side, Heiwa Shimin Park is truly a breath of fresh air in Oita City.
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​With 650 trees lining either side of a small river, the park makes for an excellent place for a leisurely sakura stroll. 

My first and only visit there was on a weeknight in early April just before sunset, which turned out to be the perfect time to go.