Many people are visiting a park in central Japan to see more than 1,000 cherry trees in full bloom.

Takatojoshi Park in the city of Ina, Nagano Prefecture, is known as one of the country's best cherry blossom viewing spots. It is home to about 1,500 cherry trees of a variety designated as the prefecture's natural monument.

The trees began flowering 10 days later than last year, due to cold weather. They came into full bloom this week.

A cherry blossom festival is underway at the park. Visitors took photos of the deep-pink blossoms.

A man in his 70s from Tokyo said he saw the cherry blossoms at the park for the first time, and was impressed by their beauty.

A man in his 20s said he and his family came to see the blossoms at their best. He added that they also want to come at night to see the trees lit up.

Park officials say the blossoms will remain in full bloom for about a week if the weather permits. Nighttime illumination will continue through Sunday.

City authorities are calling on visitors to take anti-coronavirus measures, such as refraining from eating and drinking outside designated places, and not drinking alcohol.