Kawazu Cherry Blossoms: An Early Spring Spectacle

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Experience the beauty of early-blooming cherry blossoms in Kawazu, Japan, a vibrant spectacle that heralds the arrival of spring.

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Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

The Kawazu Cherry Blossoms (Kawazu-zakura) in Kawazu, Japan, offer a unique opportunity to witness cherry blossoms in full bloom much earlier than the rest of the country. These vibrant pink blossoms, celebrated at the annual Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, provide a stunning contrast against the early spring landscape.

A brief summary to Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

48-6 Sasahara, Kawazu, Sasahara, Kamo District, Shizuoka, 413-0512, JP
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during mid-February for the best chance to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and during the festival period.
Take a stroll along the Kawazu River to enjoy the breathtaking views of the cherry blossoms.
Explore the local food stalls for regional delicacies like sakura mochi.
Stay until evening to witness the magical illuminations of the cherry trees.

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Getting There

Public Transport

The main festival area is easily accessible from Kawazu Station on the Izukyu Railway Line. From Tokyo, take the Odoriko Limited Express directly to Kawazu Station, approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station and transfer to the JR Ito Line, which connects to the Izukyu Line to Kawazu Station. A one-way trip from Tokyo to Atami on the Shinkansen costs around ¥3,740. The Limited Express Odoriko train is covered by the JR Rail Pass.
Walking

From Kawazu Station, the main festival area along the Kawazu River is less than a 5-minute walk. Follow the signs and the crowds to the riverbank lined with cherry trees and festival stalls. The original Kawazu-zakura tree is about a 20-minute walk from the station.
Parking

If driving, be aware that parking near the festival area can be limited, especially during peak season. Parking is available, but it fills up quickly, particularly around 11:00 AM. Parking fees typically cost ¥1000 per day. Consider arriving early or using public transportation.

Discover more about Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

The Kawazu Cherry Blossoms, or Kawazu-zakura, are a special variety of cherry tree that blooms in early spring, typically from early February to early March. Named after the town of Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula where they were discovered, these blossoms offer a vibrant spectacle well before the more common Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom later in March and April. The history of the Kawazu-zakura dates back to 1955 when a local resident, Katsumi Iida, found a seedling. After planting and nurturing it for over a decade, it finally bloomed, revealing its unique characteristics. The variety was officially named in 1974 and has since become a symbol of early spring in Japan. Today, around 8,000 Kawazu cherry trees line the banks of the Aono River in Kawazu. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held annually from early February to early March, attracts nearly two million visitors. The festival features food stalls, local crafts, and evening illuminations, creating a lively atmosphere. The main viewing area stretches along the Kawazu River, where nearly 800 trees create a stunning tunnel of pink blossoms. Visitors can also see the original Kawazu-zakura tree, which is still alive and blooming. For those seeking a quieter experience, walking along the river towards Mine Onsen offers a more peaceful setting.