When

The Kume Island Sakura Festival is part of the larger Sakura Blossom season on Kumejima, which normally occurs between late January and February. The two day festival takes place the first weekend in February.

Dates for 2013: January 26-27

Where

The Sakura Festival takes place at Daruma Park, where many cherry trees line the road. There are also many Sakura trees along the Ara forst road in the south.

Event Details

The Sakura Fest is home to many activities and events over its two day period. Normally there are several live bands, taiko and sanshin, karaoke competitions, and more.

One of the most inviting aspects of the fest is the student-run tea ceremony corner on a hill surrounded by blooming cherry trees. There, students serve warm macha tea in the traditional way while you enjoy the pink and white flowers.

2013 marked the first competition between local restaurants. Many restaurants had booths offering unique flavors for attendees to vote on.