🌸 A 21km Sakura Journey through Waju Landscapes and Oogure River Blooms 🌸
Kaizu City in Gifu Prefecture is a unique “city of water” characterized by its “Waju” heritage—polder lands protected by ancient embankments from the Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi Rivers. This 21km GPS art course invites you to celebrate the season by sketching a magnificent Sakura (cherry blossom) across this historic landscape. The centerpiece of the journey is the Oogure River Embankment Cherry Blossom Avenue, a breathtaking 7km-long floral corridor featuring approximately 1,000 Somei-Yoshino trees.
As you navigate this half-marathon-distance loop, you will encounter the cultural soul of the region: Chiyoho Inari Shrine, affectionately known as “Ochiyo-bo-san.” Famous for its prayers for business prosperity, the lively approach to the shrine is filled with the tempting aroma of local kushikatsu (skewered cutlets). The route also weaves through Hirata Park, the playful Otohime Park, and the innovative Kaizu Kodomo Mirai Center ZüTTo, reflecting the community’s vibrant spirit.
Geographically, the terrain is remarkably flat, situated on the alluvial plain between major rivers, making it an ideal “canvas” for a smooth long-distance run or a brisk hike. The refreshing river breeze accompanies you as you trace the intricate petals of your digital artwork. Completing this 21km circuit is a true test of endurance and creativity, connecting the dots between Kaizu’s flood-fighting history and its seasonal splendor. By the time the giant Sakura blooms on your smartphone, you will have experienced the true essence of this riverside sanctuary. Lace up your shoes and let your footsteps create a spring miracle in the heart of Gifu!
DETAIL (EXTERNAL LINK)
A PIONEER IN GPS ART.
1st work was authorized by Guinness World Records as “the Largest GPS Drawing”.
He is the only Japanese person to be featured in a Google documentary as an innovator. He is fascinated by the idea of drawing with GPS and has published more than 2,500 works.
