Many people want to see Japan’s famous cherry blossoms, but they can’t visit during the busy and expensive peak season in late March. This is a common problem because the popularity of the Sakura season makes it hard to plan a cheap trip. But there’s another option: Kawazu Sakura. These flowers bloom earlier and provide the same beautiful experience without the crowds.
Kawazu Sakura is a variety of cherry blossoms from Kawazu in Shizuoka. These trees are known for their bright pink petals and extended blooming period (early February to early March). They are one of the earliest blooming cherry trees, offering a rare opportunity to experience Sakura before the crowds.
Let me tell you everything you need to know to experience this lesser-known winter cherry blossom.
What is Kawazu Sakura?
Kawazu Sakura is early cherry blossom that blooms for a whole month, from early February to early March. It’s one of the first cherry blossoms to welcome spring in Japan, and its flowers are bigger and more vibrant than the usual cherry blossoms. Their bright pink petals create amazing views, especially when you see them next to the beautiful riverside in Kawazu Town.
This special variety of cherry blossom is named after the town where it grows, Kawazu Town in Shizuoka Prefecture. The town celebrates the arrival of the Kawazu Sakura with a fun festival every year, and visitors come to enjoy its beauty and take part in the local festivities.
In short, Kawazu Sakura cherry trees have:
- An early Blooming Season: Most cherry trees bloom in late March or early April, but Kawazu Sakura trees bloom from early February to early March.
- Vibrant Pink Petals: These flowers are known for their deep pink color, which stands out from the pale pink of the Somei Yoshino variety.
- An extended Blooming Period: Kawazu Sakura trees stay in bloom for almost a month, which is much longer than the usual week of cherry blossoms.
- A Historic Connection: This variety was first found in Kawazu Town on the Izu Peninsula, where it has become a local treasure.
Top Spots to See Kawazu Sakura
Kawazu Town in Shizuoka Prefecture
Kawazu Town is the birthplace of Kawazu Sakura and the most famous spot to see them in full bloom. Here, you can see over 8,000 cherry trees lining along Kawazu River and creating a spectacular pink corridor. Access: About 2.5 hours from Tokyo by train on the JR Odoriko Line.
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Miura Peninsula in Kanagawa Prefecture
Close to Tokyo (about 60 kilometers), the Miura Peninsula offers a quieter yet equally stunning Kawazu Sakura experience. The trees here typically bloom in early to mid-February and are perfect for a day trip without venturing too far. Make sure you don’t miss the Miura Kaigan Cherry Blossom Festival. Access: About 90 minutes from Tokyo by train.
Matsuda Town in Kanagawa Prefecture
Matsuda Town is a charming destination known for its scenic views and vibrant cherry blossom festivals. It is about 80 km from Tokyo, so it is an easy and convenient place to visit if you want to escape from the busy city. The town has a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, including views of Mount Fuji.
The Matsuda Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual event from early February to mid-March in Nishihirabatake Park. Visitors can enjoy local food, take pictures, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a great day trip from Tokyo and the park is high up, so you can see for miles. Access: About 90 minutes from Tokyo by train.
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Kawazu Sakura Festival: A Celebration of Spring
The Kawazu Sakura Festival is an annual event held in Kawazu Town to celebrate the vibrant pink blooms of the Kawazu cherry blossoms. Running from early February to early March, the festival attracts thousands of visitors (including me!) excited to enjoy Japan’s cherry blossoms long before the peak season.
Here are some of the festival’s best moments:
The Riverside Sakura Tunnel
Over 800 Kawazu Sakura trees line the Kawazu River, creating a spectacular 4-kilometer tunnel of blossoms. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful views of nature and the town. And don’t miss the evening illuminations — as the sun sets, the trees are lit up with soft, colorful lights, transforming the blossoms into a magical nighttime spectacle. This makes the festival even more exciting during the evening hours.
Local Food and Souvenirs
The festival is lined with food stalls offering regional specialties such as freshly grilled seafood, Sakura-themed sweets, and local sake. Vendors also sell unique souvenirs, like Sakura-flavored treats and handmade crafts, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the experience.
Scenic Photo Spots
Designated photo zones along the river offer perfect angles to capture the beauty of the Kawazu Sakura, whether by day or night. It’s a paradise for photography enthusiasts looking to document their trip.
The Kawazu Sakura Festival offers the chance to experience the early-blooming cherry blossoms in a traditional Japanese celebration atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the start of spring before the main cherry blossom season begins.
How to Get to Kawazu Town
You can start your trip from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station by boarding the JR Tokaido Shinkansen. This will take you to Atami Station, and the trip takes about 45 minutes. Ticket prices range from ¥3,740 for a non-reserved seat to ¥4,270 for a reserved seat.
If you want to save money, take the JR Tokaido Line. It’s a slower train, and the trip to Atami takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The ticket costs roughly ¥1,980.
When you arrive in Atami, switch to the Limited Express Odoriko heading to Izukyu-Shimoda and get off at Kawazu Station. This part of the trip takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs around ¥3,330.
It is also possible to take the Limited Express Odoriko from Tokyo Station to Kawazu Station. The trip takes about 2.5 hours, but there are no transfers, and costs around ¥6,130.
The entire journey from Tokyo to Kawazu takes between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the train combinations you choose. The total cost for a one-way trip ranges from ¥5,500 to ¥7,100, with options to balance speed and budget depending on your preferences.
If you have a JR Pass, the shinkansen and the JR Limited Express Odoriko are fully covered, so you can use the fastest option (2 hours trip).
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If you have a JR Tokyo Wide Area Pass, the whole trip is covered, but you can’t use the shinkansen. You have to use the Limited Express Odoriko. It adds 30 minutes to the trip, but the JR Tokyo Wide Area Pass is way cheaper than the national JR Pass.
When you arrive at Kawazu Station, you’ll find that the main festival activities and cherry blossom viewing areas are within walking distance.
Tips for Visiting Kawazu Sakura
Plan Your Visit Around Peak Bloom
Kawazu Sakura typically blooms from early February to early March, with the peak bloom lasting about two weeks. Keep an eye on bloom forecasts to choose the best time for your visit. Early mornings are ideal for fewer crowds and softer natural light for photography.
Arrive Early for a Better Experience
Kawazu can get busy, especially during weekends and festival days. Arriving early ensures you can enjoy the blossoms at your own pace and capture photos without the distraction of large crowds.
Bring Comfortable Shoes and Warm Clothing
Kawazu’s riverside walking paths and festival grounds require a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Since February in Japan can be chilly, layering warm clothes ensures you stay comfortable throughout your visit.
Explore Beyond the Festival
While the Kawazu Sakura Festival is a highlight, take time to wander along the quieter sections of the river or visit nearby hot springs for a more serene experience. These spots offer a deeper connection to the local atmosphere.
Don’t Forget Evening Illuminations
Kawazu Sakura is equally mesmerizing at night during the festival, with trees lit up in soft, colorful lights. Visiting in the evening adds a magical touch to the experience and gives you a chance to see a different side of the blossoms.
Capture the Best Photos
To capture the vibrant pink color of the blossoms, avoid midday when the sun is harsh. Use a polarizing filter if possible to reduce glare, and experiment with angles to include the river, lanterns, or other scenic elements in your shots.
Why Kawazu Sakura is Worth the Visit
If you’re looking to enjoy cherry blossoms without the crowds and challenges of the peak sakura season, Kawazu Sakura is the place for you. Visiting during February and early March means you can experience cherry blossoms while also exploring Japan at a quieter time, avoiding the large crowds of the main tourist season.
Events like the Kawazu Sakura Festival make the experience even better, mixing natural beauty with local culture, food, and entertainment. So, if you’re planning a trip to Japan in the winter or early spring, Kawazu Sakura is the perfect way to experience one of the country’s most cherished traditions in a more relaxed and intimate environment.
