Published: February 3, 2026
While most of Japan awaits the arrival of cherry blossoms in late March, the town of Kawazu in the Izu Peninsula offers a delightful preview of spring nearly a month earlier.
The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival (河津桜まつり, Kawazu-zakura Matsuri) celebrates a unique, early-blooming variety of sakura, painting the riverside landscape in vibrant shades of pink from early February to early March.
This guide provides everything you need to know to plan your visit to the 2026 festival, from the latest bloom forecasts to access information and what makes these blossoms so special.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts: Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival 2026
| Feature | Details |
| Festival Dates | February 7 (Saturday) – March 8 (Sunday), 2026 |
| Best Viewing Time | Mid-February to early March |
| Location | Along the Kawazu River, Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture |
| Access | A short walk from Kawazu Station (Izu Kyuko Line) |
| Number of Trees | Approx. 850 along the main river promenade |
| Night Illumination | Daily during the festival (details to be confirmed) |
| Cost | Free (some special events may have fees) |
| Payment Methods | Cash is recommended for festival stalls |
What Makes Kawazu Sakura Special?
The Kawazu cherry tree (Kawazu-zakura) was discovered by chance in the town of Kawazu in the 1950s. Unlike the pale pink Somei Yoshino variety that is common throughout Japan, Kawazu-zakura have larger petals and a more intense, deep pink color.
One of their most appealing characteristics is their long blooming period. While most cherry blossoms last for about a week, Kawazu-zakura can be enjoyed for nearly a month, from their first opening to when the petals begin to fall. The best time to see them is often considered to be between 60% and 80% bloom, when the flowers are at their most vibrant before new leaves begin to emerge.
The Festival Experience: A Riverside Stroll
The heart of the festival is the approximately 4-kilometer promenade along the Kawazu River. The path is lined with an unbroken canopy of cherry trees, creating a stunning pink tunnel. During the festival, the area comes alive with nearly 100 food stalls and local vendors selling everything from grilled seafood and yakisoba to sakura-themed sweets and souvenirs.
Visitors can stroll along the riverbank, relax on the grassy slopes, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The contrast between the pink blossoms and the yellow nanohana (rapeseed) flowers, which bloom at the same time, creates a picture-perfect spring scene.
Best Time to Visit in 2026
The official festival runs from February 7 to March 8, 2026. However, the peak bloom can vary each year depending on the weather. Based on previous years, the best viewing window is typically from mid-February to the first week of March.
For the most up-to-date information, check the official festival website, which provides daily bloom reports and live camera feeds from various locations starting in late January.
How to Get There
Kawazu is easily accessible by train, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway from Tokyo.
By Train:
•From Tokyo: Take the JR Limited Express Odoriko from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station directly to Kawazu Station. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
•From Atami/Ito: Take the Izu Kyuko Line to Kawazu Station.
The festival’s main area is just a short walk from Kawazu Station.
Special Limited Express Trains:
During the peak season, JR East operates special limited express trains, such as the “Minami no Sakura Kawazu-zakura,” from stations like Omiya, Hachioji, and Tachikawa, providing direct access for those coming from outside central Tokyo.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
•Go on a weekday:
The festival can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday is highly recommended for a more relaxed experience.
•Wear comfortable shoes:
You will be doing a lot of walking along the river promenade.
•Bring cash:
While some larger shops may accept credit cards, most of the food stalls are cash-only.
•Look for wildlife:
The cherry trees are a popular feeding spot for birds like the Japanese white-eye (mejiro) and the brown-eared bulbul (hiyodori).
Where to Stay Nearby
Kawazu is a small hot spring town with several traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) and smaller guesthouses (minshuku). For a wider range of options, consider staying in nearby towns like Ito, Atami, or Shimoda, which are all easily accessible via the Izu Kyuko Line.
Suggested Mini-Itinerary (Full Day)
•Morning (9:00 AM): Arrive at Kawazu Station and start your walk along the river towards the sea.
•Late Morning (11:00 AM): Explore the food stalls and enjoy an early lunch by the river.
•Afternoon (1:00 PM): Walk upstream towards the original Kawazu-zakura tree and visit the less crowded areas.
•Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Find a spot to relax and enjoy the golden hour light on the blossoms.
•Evening (6:00 PM): Experience the magical night illumination before heading back to the station.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to see the Kawazu cherry blossoms in 2026?
A: The peak viewing period is expected from mid-February to early March. The official festival runs from February 7 to March 8, 2026.
Q: Is the festival crowded?
A: Yes, it is very popular. Weekends are extremely crowded. It is best to visit on a weekday if possible.
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, viewing the cherry blossoms and strolling through the festival area is free.
Q: Can I see Mount Fuji from Kawazu?
A: No, Mount Fuji is not visible from the main festival area in Kawazu Town.
Q: Are there night illuminations?
A: Yes, the cherry trees are typically lit up in the evening during the festival period, creating a magical atmosphere.
Q: Is it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
A: The main paved promenade along the river is generally flat and accessible. However, some of the unpaved paths and riverbed areas may be difficult to navigate.
Sources
•Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Information Bureau (Kawazu-zakura Matsuri Jōhōkyoku)
•JR East Media: Kawazu Sakura Information 2026
•Kawazu Town Tourism Association
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