Sakura Park

Best time to visit

Bloom is brief — the cherry trees flower between late February and early April depending on the year and last only a week or two, so check ahead before a bloom trip. Mornings have soft light as the mountain fog lifts. Weekends and holidays draw the biggest crowds.

What to bring

Cash — the park is cash only and one gate fee at Haights Place covers both gardens. Pack a warm jacket for the cold at 2300 m elevation, comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera. A blanket and snacks are handy for the picnic areas.

Things to do

• Stroll the Japan-inspired cherry blossom garden
• Photograph the pink Yokiwari and white Sindaya sakura trees
• Take in mountain viewpoints at about 2300 m elevation
• Picnic in the garden grounds
• Explore the adjacent Haights Place gardens on the same ticket
• Learn the Benguet and Kochi Prefecture sisterhood story behind the park

Getting there

From Baguio, ride a bus or van bound for Sagada or Bontoc at the Dangwa terminal and alight at Sayangan, Atok — about 1.5 to 2 hours along Halsema Highway. No tricycles operate in the area, so hire a vehicle with a driver at the Atok Tourism Office for the short ride to Barangay Paoay. Enter through the Haights Place gate — one ticket covers both gardens.