Sakura Avenue

In 1988, as a bicentennial project, Cowra Shire Council planted 1988 cherry blossom trees between the Cowra War Cemetery, the site of the Prisoner Of War Camp, and the Japanese Gardens as a sign of peace and reconciliation with the Japanese people. A highlight of spring for locals and visitors alike is a drive from the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre up Sakura Avenue, or Avenue of Cherry Trees. Brilliant blossoms line the way along the Avenue, which links the Japanese Garden with the site of the POW Camp, and continues on to the Australian and Japanese War Cemeteries. Each tree is sponsored by Japanese businesses and citizens as well as Australian school children.