Japan’s cherry blossom season is a world-renowned spectacle, but the early-blooming Kawazu Sakura in Shizuoka Prefecture offers a unique, month-long preview starting in early February. Unlike the more common Somei Yoshino, these blossoms are a vibrant pink and last longer, making them a perfect target for travelers planning a spring trip. This guide is specifically designed for those planning their journey, providing detailed, step-by-step access instructions from major airports and cities to the heart of the Kawazu Sakura Festival.
Contents
- Quick Facts
- Why Visit Kawazu for Cherry Blossoms?
- Best Time to Visit
- How to Get to Kawazu Sakura: A Detailed Breakdown
- From Major International Airports
- From Major Shinkansen Hubs
- Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Where to Stay
- Suggested Mini-Itinerary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-to-late February for peak bloom |
| Time Needed | Full day trip or 1-2 days |
| Nearest Station | Izukyu-Kawazu Station (伊豆急河津駅) |
| Cost Range | Free to walk the riverbanks; festival stalls vary |
| Payment | Cash is essential for small stalls; larger shops may accept cards/e-money |
| Crowd Level | Very high, especially on weekends during peak bloom |
| Accessibility | Main riverbank paths are paved and mostly flat |
Why Visit Kawazu for Cherry Blossoms?
The Kawazu Sakura are a distinct variety of cherry blossom, celebrated for two main reasons: their early bloom (early February to early March) and their vibrant pink color. The festival takes place along the Kawazu River, where a four-kilometer stretch is lined with approximately 8,000 of these beautiful trees. The longer blooming period of about one month gives visitors a much wider window to experience the magic, compared to the fleeting one-week peak of other varieties.
Best Time to Visit
The Kawazu Sakura Festival officially runs from early February to early March. For the most breathtaking views, aim for mid-to-late February, which is typically the peak bloom period. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. The evening light-ups (usually 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM) offer a completely different, magical atmosphere.
How to Get to Kawazu Sakura: A Detailed Breakdown
Reaching Kawazu involves a combination of trains, but the journey is part of the scenic adventure, taking you through the beautiful Izu Peninsula.
From Major International Airports
For international travelers, accessing Kawazu is straightforward from both Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) airports.
From Haneda Airport (HND)
•Fastest Route (Approx. 3.5 – 4 hours, ~¥5,800):
1.Haneda Airport → Shinagawa Station: Take the Keikyu Airport Line (approx. 13 mins).
2.Shinagawa Station → Atami Station: Transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) (approx. 38 mins on Kodama services).
3.Atami Station → Kawazu Station: Transfer to the JR Ito/Izukyu Line (approx. 1 hour 22 mins).
From Narita Airport (NRT)
•Most Convenient Route (Approx. 4 – 4.5 hours, ~¥8,000-¥8,500):
1.Narita Airport → Tokyo Station: Take the Narita Express (N’EX) (approx. 60 mins, ~¥3,070).
2.Tokyo Station → Kawazu Station: Take the direct Limited Express Odoriko train (approx. 2 hours 40 mins). This is the easiest option with no further transfers.
From Major Shinkansen Hubs
If you’re traveling within Japan using a Japan Rail Pass, here’s how to get to Kawazu from major cities.
From Tokyo Station
•Most Convenient (Direct): The Limited Express Odoriko train runs directly from Tokyo Station to Kawazu Station. It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes and requires no transfers, making it the most hassle-free option. The cost is approximately ¥5,000-¥6,000 for a reserved seat.
•Fastest: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (approx. 38 mins on Kodama services), then transfer to the local JR Ito/Izukyu Line to Kawazu Station (approx. 1 hour 22 mins). The total cost is approximately ¥5,500-¥6,000.
From Nagoya / Osaka
1.Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (approx. 2 hours from Nagoya, 3 hours from Osaka).
2.At Atami, transfer to the JR Ito/Izukyu Line and ride it to Kawazu Station (approx. 1 hour 22 mins).
Practical Tips for Your Visit
•Cash is King: While larger restaurants may accept cards, the many food stalls that are a highlight of the festival are cash-only.
•Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking along the riverbanks.
•Arrive Early: To beat the worst of the crowds, especially on weekends, aim to arrive before 10:00 AM.
•Check the Bloom Status: Before you go, check the official Kawazu Town Tourism Association website for the latest bloom status to time your visit perfectly.
•Luggage: Kawazu Station has a limited number of coin lockers. If you have large luggage, consider using a luggage forwarding service.
Where to Stay
While Kawazu is a popular day trip, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the evening light-up and explore the Izu Peninsula. The area around Kawazu Station and the neighboring Imaihama-Kaigan Station offers a range of ryokans (traditional inns) and hotels, many with their own onsen (hot springs).
Find Hotels Near Kawazu Station
Suggested Mini-Itinerary
•Morning (9:00 AM): Arrive at Kawazu Station, pick up a map, and start walking along the river towards the sea.
•Late Morning (11:00 AM): Enjoy the festival atmosphere and sample street food from the stalls (like sakura-themed taiyaki).
•Lunch (12:30 PM): Find a local restaurant for a sit-down meal.
•Afternoon (2:00 PM): Visit the original Kawazu Sakura tree, the “Genboku,” which is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
•Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Relax at a foot bath (ashiyu) to rest your feet.
•Evening (6:00 PM): Enjoy the magical sight of the cherry blossoms illuminated at night before heading back.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Is the Japan Rail Pass valid for the entire journey?
The JR Pass covers the Shinkansen and JR trains to Ito Station. However, the section from Ito to Kawazu is on the privately-owned Izukyu Line, which requires a separate fare (though JR Pass holders get a discount).
2.Is it accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
The main paths along the river are paved and generally flat, making them accessible. However, some smaller paths, bridges, and shops may not be.
3.Are there public restrooms?
Yes, temporary public restrooms are set up throughout the festival area.
4.What should I wear?
February in Kawazu can still be chilly, especially in the evenings. Layering is key. Wear a warm jacket, but be prepared for sunshine during the day.
5.Can I drive there?
Driving is an option, but festival parking is limited, expensive (around ¥1,000), and traffic can be extremely heavy. Train travel is highly recommended.
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Sources
•Kawazu Town Tourism Association
