🌸 A 12km Sakura course exploring Konko’s spiritual heritage and Satomi River blossoms 🌸
Step into the serene atmosphere of Konko-cho in Asakuchi City, Okayama, a town with a unique history as the spiritual center of the Konko-kyo faith. This 12km GPS art course invites you to draw a grand cherry blossom (Sakura) through streets filled with heritage and the natural beauty of the Satomi River.
The journey begins at JR Konko Station. Just south of the station, the Satomi River promenade offers a stunning vista with 250 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees stretching for about one kilometer. The well-maintained path is perfect for catching a gentle breeze while running or walking. During the peak season, flower-viewing platforms and benches provide a comfortable space to admire the blossoms. At night, traditional lanterns illuminate the trees, creating a dreamlike reflection on the river’s surface that is perfect for photography.
As you trace the intricate lines of the Sakura art, you will visit the Main House of the Sadakane Family Residence. This grand, historic building, once home to a local brewing family, is a registered tangible cultural property that whispers stories of the region’s prosperity. The course also takes you through Asakuchi City Konko Sports Park, a hub for local recreation where green spaces and daily life intertwine.
The blend of the majestic Satomi River landscape and the dignified atmosphere of the religious headquarters makes this course truly special. By the time you complete this 12km journey, a digital blossom will appear on your map, mirroring the real flowers that define Konko’s spring. Whether you are a fan of history or nature, lace up your shoes and breathe in the tranquil air of Asakuchi as you paint your very own masterpiece.
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.
