In the courtyard of Morioka District Court stands a curious cherry blossom tree, growing out of a crack in a granite boulder.

Known as the Ishiwari-zakura (Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree), the tree is estimated to be over 360 years old. The cherry blossom grew from a single Prunus itosakura seed that fell into the boulder after lightning cracked it open in a feudal daimyo’s garden.

In 1932, a fire broke out at Morioka District Court. Though part of the Rock-Splitting Cherry Tree burned down, it survived the ordeal thanks to a brave gardener who protected it with a wet jacket and the tree blossomed just fine by next spring.

Since 1923, the tree has been a nationally designated Natural Monument and is a beloved icon of Morioka City.