Spring

There are many different flowers to enjoy in Hagi in the spring. Nothing says springtime in Japan more than cherry blossoms! From late March to early April, some 600 Yoshino cherry trees bloom in Shizuki Park, the site of Hagi Castle. Beautiful cherry blossoms can be enjoyed along with the view of old stone walls and moats. Here, you can also find just one single Midori-Yoshino cherry tree, whose unusual snow-white blossoms are a must-see in Hagi.

The Hagi Sightseeing Boat operates special cherry blossom sightseeing tours during this period. A slow boat ride on the water allows you to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossom trees.

In May, the summer orange blossoms bloom throughout the city. Summer orange trees combine numerous small white blossoms with yellow fruit in a single tree. A typical view in Hagi consists of summer orange fruits peaking over the old earthen walls and white plaster walls of the castle town. Summer orange blossoms usually bloom from early to mid-May and have a mild, sweet, refreshing fragrance, so visitors can enjoy the scent of the flowers along with their attractive visual appearance.

The Hagiyaki Festival, which involves exhibitions and sales of Hagi yaki pottery, a traditional Hagi craft with a history going back more than 400 years, takes place from May 1 to May 5. Hagi yaki is distinctive for its soft texture, and in the past, it was mostly used for tea ceremony dishes. In modern times, it has received high acclaim both as daily use tableware and as works of art.

The Hagiyaki Festival is held each year in spring and fall, with more than 50 kilns exhibiting a wide variety of items.