This road, affectionately known as "Cosmos Highway" because cosmos flowers were planted along the road, saw the Senbonzakura project carried out in 1985 (Showa 60).

Led by the Okikawa Children's Association, the project was carried out as a greening activity with the participation of local residents, with the aim of familiarizing children with trees and making the area a famous cherry blossom spot, by lining a street of 1,000 cherry trees along the prefectural road Kamiisotogeshita Line (Route 96), which leads to the historic site of the Matsumae Domain Hekiriji Jin'ya.

A total of 1,000 Oyama cherry trees (Ezo mountain cherry trees) and Somei Yoshino cherry trees (500 each) have been planted on both sides of the road and maintained. There is a row of cherry trees along Route 96 that stretches for about 1.8 kilometers. The Somei Yoshino cherry trees and mountain cherry trees bloom in abundance, making this a cherry blossom driving course that is a delight to drivers.