Weeping cherry blossoms bring smiles

Akita Prefecture's Semboku City is known for its weeping cherry blossom trees. The contrast between the black walls of the samurai-era villas in the Kakunodate district of the city and the white of the drooping cherry blossoms makes this a popular spot with both tourists and locals. The Kakunodate Cherry Blossom Festival runs until May 5th, during which time, the cherry blossoms are lit up at night.