While cherry blossoms tend to steal the spotlight in spring, Iwata City in Shizuoka Prefecture is home to another remarkable seasonal sight — the long-trailing wisteria known as "nagafuji."
Stretching across the grounds of Kokoji Temple and into the adjacent Toyoda Kumano Memorial Park, the combined wisteria trellis covers approximately 1,600 m², making it one of the most impressive wisteria-viewing destinations in the region.
Kokoji Temple (磐田市池田330)
The grounds of Kokoji Temple are home to 17 long wisteria trees. Their flower clusters can reach over one meter in length, creating a majestic and awe-inspiring sight in full bloom.
Among them, "Kumano no Nagafuji" holds the distinction of being a nationally designated natural monument. This wisteria is connected to Kumano Gozen, a woman born in Ikeda-juku during the late Heian period who served Taira no Munemori, a powerful figure of the era. The tree is estimated to be approximately 850 years old.
In addition, five more wisteria trees on the grounds carry designation as Shizuoka Prefecture natural monuments.
Toyoda Kumano Memorial Park (磐田市池田189-2)
Adjacent to Kokoji Temple, Toyoda Kumano Memorial Park features a well-maintained walking path through the wisteria trellis. Visitors can stroll beneath a vivid purple curtain at close range, taking in both the sight and the sweet fragrance of the blooms up close.
The wisteria typically reaches peak bloom from mid to late April.
For the latest bloom information, the Ikeda Machizukuri Council's website provides regular updates.
During peak season, the surrounding area can become quite congested, so visitors are encouraged to use public transportation. Temporary parking facilities and free shuttle buses are also made available during the peak bloom period. For details, see the Iwata City Tourism Association's website.
Iwata City Tourism Association
