Cherry Blossoms in Kusatsu, Shiga

Ancient road leads to sakura-lined riverbank and shrine

Por Cathy Cawood

Community writer

Paper lanterns decorated with blossom and the characters for Kusatsu hung from all the shop awnings

Kusatsu River was diverted, so there is no water between the banks

Cherry trees on the riverbank with a high-rise in the background

Entrance of Kusatu Honjin Juku, which used to be a way station for nobility on the Tokaido Road

Vase of cherry blossom branches at Kusatu Honjin Juku

The impressive entrance of an old sake shop

Red banners and cherry blossom at Tachiki Shrine

For a pleasant spring outing, get off the train at Kusatsu JR Station, and walk along an old street that was part of the ancient Tokaido Road. The street lined with quaint old shops and restaurants takes you past Kusatsu Honjin Juku, which was a rest stop for nobility traveling along the Tokaido. It is well worth visiting if you have the time. The street leads to a dry riverbed with raised banks. The Kusatsu River once flowed here, but was diverted. The raised banks have been planted with cherry trees, making this a very popular spot for hanami parties in spring. If you continue to follow the road you will reach Tachiki Shrine.