Walking the 1.2km Cherry Blossom Path at Mizuki Ruins with My Dog

This spring trip started when my wife was browsing Google Maps and asked, “Hey, doesn’t this place look amazing for cherry blossoms?” To be honest, my initial reaction was a lukewarm “Oh, really?”… but once we actually got there, the cherry blossom path at the Mizuki Ruins blew me away.

Located in the Mizuki area of Dazaifu City, these ruins are part of an ancient defense embankment that stretches across the landscape. Today, cherry blossoms line that historic embankment. Because the surrounding area is mostly open rice fields, the visibility is incredible. You get the best of both worlds: the joy of walking directly under the blossoms and the beauty of admiring the long pink line from a distance.

The Best of Both Worlds: Under the Trees or Across the Fields

What I loved most was how the scenery changed depending on where we walked.

First, there is the classic “Under the Blossoms” route. Since the trees follow the line of the old embankment, they form a stunning “cherry blossom tunnel” in several spots. Walking through it really lifts your spirits. Elmo seemed to be having a blast too, busily sniffing the spring air (he looks so adorable when he’s focused like that).

Then, there’s what I call the “Rice Field Path.” By stepping away from the trees and walking along the narrow paths between the rice fields, the sky feels massive and the breeze flows right through. From this distance, the cherry blossoms appear as a long, vibrant “line” across the horizon. While seeing them up close is beautiful, there’s something truly moving about seeing the entire row from afar. It’s also much easier to take photos from here, and it’s a great way to escape the crowds on busy days.

Also, Mizuki Ruins isn’t just about the pink petals; the rapeseed blossoms (nanohana) are just as striking. The combination of cherry blossom pink and rapeseed yellow is the ultimate symbol of spring.

Navigating the Parking Lot: Slow and Steady is Best

If you’re driving, just a heads-up: the entrance to the parking lot is a bit tricky to find. If you aren’t careful, you’ll drive right past it.

The entrance itself is quite narrow, tucked between what looks like walls, which can be a bit nerve-wracking to turn into. My advice is to slow down well in advance and give yourself plenty of mental space to make the turn.

For reference, the city recommends Mizuki Dai-ni Hiroba (approx. 15 spaces, free, open 8:00–18:00). In my experience, it gets very crowded during the peak blossom season, so arriving early is definitely the way to go.

Respecting the Relaxed Spring Vibe

On the day we visited, there were so many people soaking up the sun. Some were having picnics on the grass, while others were even taking naps—it was the perfect, peaceful spring atmosphere.

However, as a dog owner, seeing so many people made me realize how important it is to follow the rules and maintain good manners. While there were many other dogs there, I did see a few instances where dogs got too excited or started barking, which can surprise other visitors or frighten small children.

Since it gets particularly crowded directly under the trees, it’s best to keep your dog close and stay mindful of those around you so everyone can enjoy the blossoms together.

Mizuki Ruins Offers Extra “Spring Rewards” Depending on Your Walk

The cherry blossoms at Mizuki Ruins are, quite simply, stunning.

• Walk under the blossoms to fully immerse yourself in spring.
• View from the rice fields to see the dramatic 1.2km “pink line.”
• Enjoy the color contrast when the yellow rapeseed blossoms are in bloom.
• Be careful with the parking entrance—it’s narrow and easy to miss.

What started with a simple suggestion from my wife ended up being one of those “I’m so glad we came” moments. If you are looking for a place to truly feel the scale of spring in Fukuoka, this is it.