It was in 1985 (Showa 60) that the Senbonzakura project was implemented on this road, which was popularly known as "Cosmos Road" due to the cosmos trees planted along the road.

The project, led by the Okigawa Children's Association, was carried out as a greening activity with the participation of local residents to familiarize children with trees and make the area famous for its cherry blossoms, by lining the Kamiiso Togeishita Line (Road 96), which leads to the historical site of the Tokirichi camp site of the Matsumae Domain.

A total of 1,000 cherry trees, 500 each of Daisenzakura (Ezoizanzakura) and Somei Yoshino, were planted on both sides of the road and have been cared for. There is a 1.8-kilometer row of cherry trees along Highway 96. Someiyoshino cherry trees and mountain cherry trees are in full bloom, making this a cherry blossom driving course that will delight the eyes of drivers.