Kawazu-zakura: An Early Glimpse of Spring in Japan

Current as of: 2025-12-14 JST

Conclusion

The Kawazu Cherry Blossoms offer a unique and rewarding experience for travelers seeking to witness the beauty of sakura without the peak-season crowds of major cities. It is particularly well-suited for repeat visitors to Japan, slow-travel enthusiasts, and anyone whose itinerary falls in late February to early March, a period when most other cherry blossoms in the Kanto region are yet to bloom. The vibrant, deep pink of the blossoms against the bright yellow of rapeseed flowers creates a stunning visual landscape that is well worth the journey.

Location Overview

•Name: Kawazu Cherry Blossoms (河津桜, Kawazu-zakura)

•Location: Kawazu, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture

•Atmosphere: The area combines the lively energy of a traditional Japanese festival with the serene beauty of nature. While a famous destination, it maintains a more relaxed, local atmosphere compared to the cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo or Kyoto. The experience is centered around a leisurely stroll along the Kawazu River, lined with food stalls and festive decorations.

Access

Getting to the heart of the blossoms is straightforward, with the main festival area being easily accessible from the local train station.

Transportation	Details
Nearest Station	Izukyu Kawazu Station
From Tokyo	Direct Train: Take the Limited Express Odoriko from Tokyo Station directly to Kawazu Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. [1] Shinkansen: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station, then transfer to the Izukyu Line bound for Izukyu-Shimoda and get off at Kawazu Station. The leg from Atami takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. 1
From Kawazu Station	The main viewing area along the Kawazu River is a short 3-minute walk from the station. 2

Fees & Hours

One of the great attractions of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is its accessibility.

•Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to view the cherry blossoms or walk through the festival area. The experience is free and open to the public.

•Operating Hours: The area is accessible 24 hours a day. The festival food stalls and shops typically operate from morning until evening. Special evening illuminations are held daily during the festival period from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. 3

•Parking Fees (Reference): For those driving, parking is available for a fee. For a standard car, the daytime (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM) fee is approximately ¥1,000. Prices vary for larger vehicles and motorcycles. 2

Practical Information for Foreign Travelers

Aspect	Details
English Support	Basic English signage is available, particularly for directions from the train station. The official Kawazu Tourist Association website has an English version. 4 However, do not expect extensive English support at individual food stalls or smaller shops.
Payment Methods	Cash is essential. While some larger hotels or the official tourist center may accept credit cards, the vast majority of food stalls and local vendors operate on a cash-only basis. It is strongly recommended to bring sufficient Japanese Yen. 5
Photography	Photography for personal use is widely permitted and encouraged. However, please be aware that the use of drones by the general public is strictly prohibited during the festival period to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors and residents. 6
Crowdedness	The festival is very popular and can become quite crowded, especially on weekends during the peak bloom period. For a more peaceful experience, visiting on a weekday is recommended. The areas further upriver, away from the station, also tend to be less congested.
Etiquette	Please be respectful of the natural environment. Do not touch, shake, or climb the cherry blossom trees. Be mindful of private residences and properties that line the river.

Value of the Stay & Experience

The Kawazu Cherry Blossoms are a perfect fit for the “Hidden Japan Gems” collection because they offer an alternative, early-spring narrative to the typical cherry blossom season. The trees here, a unique variety discovered in Kawazu, bloom for a full month, offering a much longer viewing window than their more common Somei Yoshino cousins. 7

The most magical time to visit is during the peak bloom, which typically occurs from late February to early March. This is when the deep pink of the sakura is perfectly complemented by the vibrant yellow of the nanohana (rapeseed) flowers that bloom along the riverbanks, creating a breathtaking contrast. The evening illuminations also offer a different, more romantic atmosphere.

For those planning a trip to the Izu Peninsula, finding accommodation early is key, as the festival attracts over a million visitors each year. For a convenient search of nearby hotels and ryokans, you can explore options on Agoda.

Cautions & Exceptions

•Bloom Fluctuation: The timing of the peak bloom can vary each year depending on winter temperatures. In 2025, for instance, a cold spell delayed the full bloom until early March, which was later than average. 3 It is always best to check the latest forecast before your visit.

•Weather: The Izu Peninsula can experience rain and wind, which may affect the blossoms. Check the weather forecast and dress in layers.

•Information Accuracy: While this article is based on the latest available information, details such as parking fees and stall operating hours can change. Always refer to the official sources for the most current information.

Sources & References

[1] Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Official Website (Access Page) –

[2] Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Official Website (Top Page) –

[3] japan-guide.com (Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival) –

[4] Kawazu Tourist Association Official Website (English) –

[5] Kawazu Tourism Exchange Center Information –

[6] Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Official Website (Drone Policy) –

[7] Kawazu Cherry Blossom Information Bureau –

Certainty

Certainty: High

Reason: The information is cross-referenced from multiple official and highly reliable tourism sources, and the data for 2025 has been specifically verified.