200 cherry trees planted at the Japan-Korea Tunnel site in Iki and Tsushima, marking the third year since the trees were planted
The cherry tree planting that began two years ago was carried out again this year. 120 seedlings were planted in Tsushima between March 5th and 10th, and 80 in Iki over two days on the 12th and 13th.
A plan to plant 1,000 cherry trees along the Japan-Korea Tunnel, which runs from Karatsu through Iki and Tsushima to the peninsula, is halfway complete, and cherry blossoms will be in full bloom in the near future.
In Tsushima, it was necessary to install netting around the seedlings to prevent them from being eaten by deer, and this was carried out smoothly with the cooperation of local people.
Last spring, the seedlings protected by deer netting have already produced pale pink flowers, and once the seedlings planted this year take root, a beautiful cherry blossom orchard will be completed. Although there are challenges unique to Tsushima, such as rocky soil, seasonal strong winds, and dryness, there is hope that the planted cherry trees will flourish as part of the island.
In addition to the tunnel site, trees were also planted along the prefectural road from the island's central Izuhara to the site in Are, a 40-minute drive. This time, the trees were planted near the entrance to Kanata Castle, a scenic spot of historical importance, making for an even more beautiful sight during cherry blossom season. Kanata Castle was Japan's frontline defensive fortress in preparation for an invasion by the Tang Dynasty following its crushing defeat in the Battle of Baekgang in 663.
There are no deer on Iki, so the trees were planted along with the splints. There are some areas that are overgrown with trees and bamboo, so cutting them down is necessary for maintenance, but the soil is rich, so there is a possibility that Iki, known as "Sakura Island," will join the ranks of famous cherry blossom spots across the country in the future.
[Photo] Cherry tree seedlings planted along the access road to the entrance of the inclined shaft in Aren, Tsushima. The seedlings on the right side of the road were planted last year.
[Photo] Planting seedlings at a point adjacent to the slope of the tunnel entrance in Aren, Tsushima
[Photo] Cherry tree seedlings planted along the prefectural road in front of Kaneda Castle on Tsushima Island
[Photo] Ashibe, Iki. A sapling can be seen in the foreground on the right, along with a green support.
[Photo] Seedlings planted last year blooming on the slope of the entrance to the inclined shaft in Aren, Tsushima. Photographed in April last year.
