Kawazu Sakura Row – Complete Guide to Shizuoka Prefecture’s Cherry Blossom Spot | Best Viewing Time, Bloom Status, and Access Information
The Kawazu Sakura Row, which spreads along the Kawazu River flowing through Kawazu Town in Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, is nationally known as the premier cherry blossom viewing spot that announces the arrival of spring earliest on Honshu. From early February to early March each year, approximately 800 Kawazu cherry trees bloom with deep pink flowers, captivating numerous visitors over the course of approximately one month.
Charm and Characteristics of Kawazu Sakura Row
What is Kawazu Sakura?
Kawazu sakura is an early-blooming cherry tree believed to be a natural hybrid of Hikan cherry (Hikansakura) and early-blooming Oshima cherry (Oshimasakura). The original tree is said to have been discovered by chance around 1955 by Katsumi Iida of Kawazu Town, and was named “Kawazu Sakura” in 1974.
Compared to Somei Yoshino cherry, the greatest characteristics of Kawazu sakura are as follows:
- Deep pink color: In contrast to the pale pink of Somei Yoshino, Kawazu sakura displays a vivid, deep pink color that photographs beautifully with its vibrant hue
- Early blooming: It typically blooms in early February, announcing spring approximately one month earlier than Somei Yoshino
- Long blooming period: It takes about one month to reach full bloom, allowing cherry blossom viewing to be enjoyed over an extended period
- Large flowers: The petals are large and impressive to behold
Scale and Scenery of the Kawazu River Sakura Row
Approximately 8,000 Kawazu cherry trees are planted throughout Kawazu Town, with the centerpiece being the sakura row along the Kawazu River. From the river mouth near Izu Kyuko Railway’s “Kawazu Station” heading upstream, approximately 800 Kawazu cherry trees line a distance of about 4 km.
The popularity of this location stems from the ability to view the cherry blossoms while walking along a riverside promenade, allowing for leisurely flower viewing while strolling. The scenery of cherry blossoms reflected on the river surface, harmonizing with the Izu mountains in the background, provides visitors with unforgettable spring memories.
Particularly noteworthy is the fantastic landscape created by the clear stream of the Kawazu River and the deep pink cherry blossoms. On clear days, the contrast with the blue sky is beautiful, while on cloudy days, the pink of the blossoms stands out even more in the soft light.
Bloom Time and Best Viewing Period for Kawazu Sakura
Typical Annual Bloom Schedule
The bloom time of Kawazu sakura is known as Honshu’s earliest cherry blossom bloom due to Shizuoka Prefecture’s warm climate and the geographical conditions of the Izu Peninsula.
Standard bloom schedule:
- Bloom begins: Early February (late January in early years)
- Best viewing period: Mid-February to early March
- Full bloom: Around late February
- Bloom ends: Early to mid-March
Since Kawazu sakura takes about one month from bloom to full bloom, cherry blossom viewing can be enjoyed over an extended period. This long blooming period makes it less likely to miss the viewing opportunity, and makes planned travel easier.
How to Check Bloom Status
Since the bloom status of Kawazu sakura varies from year to year, it is important to confirm the latest information before visiting.
Sources for bloom information:
- Kawazu Town Tourism Association official website: Updates the most accurate and detailed bloom information daily
- Kawazu Sakura Festival official website: Provides especially detailed information during festival season
- SNS: Official accounts of the Kawazu Town Tourism Association provide real-time information
- Weather information sites: Provide bloom forecasts and best viewing time predictions
Since bloom status is greatly affected by temperature, it tends to come early in warm winters and late in cold winters. It is recommended to check bloom information starting about one week before your visit and determine the optimal timing.
How to Enjoy the Kawazu Sakura Festival
Festival Overview and Dates
The Kawazu Sakura Festival is a major spring event representative of Izu, held for approximately one month from early February to early March each year. During the period, various events and programs are held centered on the sakura row along the Kawazu River, attracting many visitors from across the country.
Scheduled for 2026:
- Festival dates: February 7 (Saturday) – March 8 (Sunday), 2026 (planned)
- Venue: Kawazu River sakura row, various locations throughout Kawazu Town
- Organizer: Kawazu Town Tourism Association
The festival period sees particularly lively crowds, with many visitors even on weekdays. Weekends and holidays are especially crowded, so morning hours on weekdays are recommended for those who prefer to enjoy the blossoms in a more relaxed manner.
Food Stalls and Local Products
During the Kawazu Sakura Festival period, approximately 150 food stalls line the sakura row along the Kawazu River. Local specialties and cuisine using seafood and mountain products from Izu can be enjoyed.
Popular stall food:
- Sakura shrimp tempura: A famous Shizuoka specialty, best enjoyed fresh-fried
- Wasabi pickles: Pickled vegetables using Izu’s specialty wasabi
- Kinmedai (golden eye snapper) dishes: Simmered or dried kinmedai caught in nearby Izu waters
- New Summer Orange: Izu’s specialty citrus fruit
- Sakura mochi: Japanese sweets inspired by Kawazu sakura
- Local sake: Shizuoka Prefecture sake and shochu
The stalls allow visitors to enjoy food while strolling through the sakura row, allowing both gourmet and flower viewing to be experienced simultaneously.
Fantastic Nighttime Illumination
During the Kawazu Sakura Festival period, illumination of the sakura row and notable trees is implemented. Visitors can view the Kawazu sakura illuminated fantastically from sunset until around 9 p.m.
Highlights of the illumination:
- Reflection on the river surface: The cherry blossoms reflected in the waters of the Kawazu River create a fantastic landscape
- Enhanced deep pink color: The nighttime lighting makes Kawazu sakura’s distinctive deep pink color shine more vividly
- Calm atmosphere: In contrast to the daytime hustle and bustle, a quiet and relaxing cherry blossom viewing can be enjoyed
The illumination is particularly popular, with many people visiting from evening into night. Full-scale photography with tripods is possible, but consideration for surroundings is necessary during crowded times.
Access to Kawazu Sakura Row
Access by Train
Train access to Kawazu Sakura Row is the most convenient and reliable. During the festival period, roads become congested, making public transportation strongly recommended.
From Tokyo:
- Limited Express Odoriko Express (fastest route)
- Direct service from Tokyo Station to Izu Kyuko Railway’s “Kawazu Station”
- Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Number of trains: Several per day (increased service during festival period)
- Shinkansen + Izu Kyuko Railway
- Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Atami Station in approximately 45 minutes
- Izu Kyuko Railway from Atami Station to Kawazu Station in approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total travel time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
From Nagoya/Kansai region:
- Shinkansen to Atami Station
- Izu Kyuko Railway from Atami Station to Kawazu Station for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
From Kawazu Station, the sakura row is within walking distance, and the scenery of the row spreads out immediately upon exiting the station.
Access by Car and Parking Information
While car access is possible, expect significant congestion during the Kawazu Sakura Festival period and be prepared for time spent searching for parking.
Routes from major cities:
- From Tokyo: Via Tomei Expressway → Numazu IC → Izu Longitudinal Road → National Route 414, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours
- From Nagoya: Via Tomei Expressway → Numazu IC, approximately 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours
Parking information:
- Multiple temporary parking areas are set up throughout Kawazu Town (during festival period)
- Parking fee: Approximately 500 yen to 1,000 yen for regular vehicles
- Total capacity: Approximately 1,500 vehicles
- Parking lots often become full during peak times, resulting in waiting periods
Points for avoiding congestion:
- Aim to arrive in the early morning (around 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.)
- Choose weekdays
- Use parking farther away and enjoy the walk
During weekends of the festival period, National Route 414 may experience severe congestion with delays of several hours not uncommon. Plans with ample time margin are necessary.
How to Walk and Highlights of Kawazu Sakura Row
Recommended Walking Courses
Since the sakura row along the Kawazu River extends approximately 4 km, walking the entire section takes over 2 hours round trip. Choose one of the following courses based on available time and physical ability.
1. Standard Course (Travel time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours)
- Kawazu Station → sakura row near river mouth → near Toyo-sen Bridge in Mineonsen → Kawazu Station
- Distance: Approximately 2 km one way
- Efficiently visits the most popular areas
2. Short Time Course (Travel time: approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour)
- Stroll through sakura row near Kawazu Station only
- Distance: Approximately 1 km
- Recommended for those with limited time
3. Complete Course (Travel time: 3 hours or more)
- Stroll the entire section from river mouth to Sasahara Park upstream
- Distance: Approximately 4 km one way
- For those confident in their fitness or wanting to enjoy thoroughly
Photography Spots and Best Timing
The Kawazu Sakura Row has several particularly beautiful photography spots.
Popular photography spots:
- Kawazu River and sakura collaboration
- Cherry blossoms reflected in the river are beautiful
- Morning with front lighting is recommended
- Near Toyo-sen Bridge in Mineonsen
- The combination of bridge and sakura row is photogenic
- Overhead photography from the bridge is also popular
- Kawazu Sakura original tree
- Has historical value as the birthplace of Kawazu sakura
- Located in the Iida family garden, open for viewing
- Collaboration with rape blossoms
- In some areas, rape blossoms bloom at the base of the sakura row
- Pink and yellow contrast is beautiful
Best timing for photography:
- Early morning (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.): Few people around, sakura beautifully illuminated by morning sun
- Late afternoon (4 p.m. to 5 p.m.): Sakura dyed by setting sun is fantastic
- Illumination time (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.): Optimal for night cherry blossom photography
Other Cherry Blossom Spots Around Kawazu Town
Visiting other cherry blossom viewing spots in the area while visiting Kawazu Town allows for a more fulfilling cherry blossom viewing trip.
Kawazu Sakura Original Tree
The original tree at the Iida family garden is a must-see as the birthplace of Kawazu sakura. The original tree, over 70 years old, continues to bloom beautifully each year. Located approximately 15 minutes on foot from Kawazu Station, it is free to view.
An explanation board is placed in front of the original tree, allowing visitors to learn about the history of Kawazu sakura. One can reflect on how this one tree has become beloved nationwide.
Sasahara Park
Located upstream on the Kawazu River, Sasahara Park is a hidden gem where one can enjoy cherry blossoms in relative quietness. The park has approximately 90 Kawazu cherry trees planted, and visitors can also enjoy picnicking on the lawn area.
Particularly recommended for families with children, with play equipment available allowing children to play while viewing blossoms. Located approximately 30 minutes on foot from Kawazu Station, or approximately 10 minutes by car.
Mineonsen Sakura Tunnel
Along the road leading to Mineonsen in the mountain side of Kawazu Town, approximately 1.5 km of Kawazu sakura trees are planted, known as a “sakura tunnel”. While it’s possible to drive through, walking is recommended.
The scenery harmonizing hot spring town atmosphere with cherry blossom beauty offers charm different from the river side. Walking while viewing sakura after enjoying day bathing at Mineonsen hot spring facilities is also nice.
Other Kawazu Sakura Spots in Shizuoka Prefecture
Beyond Kawazu Town, numerous Kawazu sakura viewing spots exist throughout Shizuoka Prefecture.
Shimogamo Hot Spring Sakura (Minami-Izu Town)
At Shimogamo Hot Spring in Minami-Izu Town, approximately 800 Kawazu cherry trees bloom magnificently along the Aono River. Coming into bloom at the same time as Kawazu Town, the riverside sakura row extends approximately 3 km total length.
The characteristic feature is the beautiful collaboration between sakura and rape blossoms. The pink and yellow contrast is vivid, and it is popular as a representative cherry blossom spot in Izu. The “Minami’s Sakura and Rape Blossoms Festival” is held annually, with nighttime illumination also implemented.
Hamaoka Sand Dunes/Hakusuna Park (Omaezaki City)
At Hakusuna Park developed at the entrance to the Hamaoka Sand Dunes, Japan’s largest dune area on the Pacific side, approximately 230 Kawazu cherry trees are planted along a distance of approximately 600 m east-west alongside a cycling road.
The rare combination of sand dunes and cherry blossoms is characteristic, with cherry blossom viewing possible in an open landscape with the Pacific as background. With fewer people than Kawazu Town, it is beloved by locals as a hidden gem spot.
Izu Highlands Sakura (Itou City)
The “Sakura Village” in Izu Highlands is a famous cherry blossom spot with approximately 40 varieties and 1,500 sakura trees planted. A rare spot where various sakura bloom almost year-round from September to May.
Kawazu sakura reaches peak bloom from mid-February to early March, offering cherry blossom viewing against the majestic backdrop of Omuro Mountain. Admission is free, and the vast grounds allow leisurely strolling.
Atami Sakura (Atami City)
Atami City has a variety of sakura called “Atami sakura” that blooms even earlier than Kawazu sakura, opening in early January. Approximately 60 Atami sakura trees line the Itogawa promenade, with the “Atami Sakura Itogawa Sakura Festival” held.
Kawazu sakura is also planted in various locations throughout the city, reaching peak bloom from mid-February to early March. As Atami is also famous as a hot spring resort, enjoying both hot springs and cherry blossoms simultaneously is a major attraction.
Irohasaki
The southernmost cape of the Izu Peninsula, approximately 40 minutes by car from Kawazu Town. From the Irohasaki Lighthouse standing on a cliff, a grand panorama of the Pacific Ocean can be viewed.
On clear days, the Izu Seven Islands can be seen, leaving visitors overwhelmed by the majestic natural landscape. Walking paths are developed in the surrounding area, allowing full enjoyment of Izu’s nature.
Practical Information Before Visiting Kawazu Sakura Row
Dress Code and Items to Bring
From February to early March, the Izu Peninsula is relatively warm, but temperature variation exists between days, making appropriate clothing and item preparation important.
Recommended clothing:
- Basic: Long-sleeved shirt + light jacket or cardigan
- Footwear: Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes (for long-distance walking)
- Rain gear: Folding umbrella (weather changes frequently during this period)
- Cold weather protection: Early morning and evening can be chilly, so shawls or scarves are helpful
Item checklist:
- Camera or smartphone (don’t forget charger)
- Drinking water (though available at stalls, bring for hydration during walks)
- Tissue/wet wipes
- Sunscreen (surprisingly strong sun during clear weather)
- Picnic sheet (useful for rest)
- Small change (for stall purchases)
Crowd Status and Avoidance Methods
During the Kawazu Sakura Festival period, especially weekends and holidays are very crowded. Here are methods for avoiding crowds and enjoying more comfortably.
Crowd peaks:
- Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Days: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
- Period: Late February during full bloom
Tips for avoiding crowds:
- Early morning visit: Around 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. is relatively uncrowded, with beautiful morning sun-lit sakura
- Weekday selection: Visit on weekdays if possible
- Just before peak bloom: Around 70% bloom is still very beautiful with fewer crowds
- Upstream areas: The Kawazu Station area is crowded, while areas toward Sasahara Park upstream are relatively quiet
- Late afternoon onward: Day-trippers begin departing after 4 p.m., with the time until illumination being a hidden gem window
Nearby Accommodations and Hot Springs
To fully enjoy Kawazu sakura, staying overnight and relaxing is recommended. Various types of accommodations are available in Kawazu Town and surrounding areas.
Accommodations in Kawazu Town:
- Onsen inns: Multiple hot spring inns in Kawazu hot spring resort, some offering sakura viewing while bathing
- Business hotels: Budget-friendly accommodations near Kawazu Station
- Minshuku (private lodgings): Homey atmosphere with local cuisine
Accommodations in surrounding areas:
- Shimoda City: About 30 minutes by train from Kawazu Town, famous as a hot spring destination
- Higashi-Izu Town: Adjoins to the north, with Atakawa hot spring and others
- Minami-Izu Town: Adjoins to the south, with Shimogamo hot spring
Day-use hot spring facilities:
Day bathing is available at hot spring facilities in Kawazu Town, perfect for soothing the fatigue from walking.
- Mineo Hot Spring Great Geyser Park
- Kawazu Seven Falls Hot Spring (approximately 20 minutes by car)
- Imahama Hot Spring (in adjacent Higashi-Izu Town)
Accommodations become crowded during the festival period, requiring early reservations. Especially weekends and peak bloom periods may see reservations fill months in advance.
Izu Tourist Spots Enjoyable Along with Kawazu Sakura
Visiting other tourist spots on the Izu Peninsula together with Kawazu sakura makes for an even more fulfilling trip.
Kawazu Seven Falls
Seven waterfalls in the mountainous areas of Kawazu Town, approximately 20 minutes by car from Kawazu Sakura Row. Walking paths are developed, allowing all falls to be visited in approximately one hour.
Particularly, “Big Falls” is an impressive 30-meter-high, 7-meter-wide waterfall, allowing full immersion in negative ions while refreshing. Hot spring inns and dining establishments are found in the waterfall area, offering local cuisine such as wasabi dishes and wild boar hot pot.
Izu Animal Kingdom
An animal park in Higashi-Izu Town, adjacent to Kawazu Town, approximately 15 minutes by car from Kawazu Station. The closeness to animals is unique, with popular experiences of directly feeding giraffes and rhinoceroses.
Views of Izu Oshima Island from the park are also spectacular, especially recommended for families with children. Kawazu sakura in the park also reach peak bloom around cherry blossom season.
Shimoda City Sightseeing
Approximately 30 minutes by train from Kawazu Town, Shimoda City is a port town with remnants of Bakumatsu period history. Known as the site of Perry’s arrival, it features historical spots such as Perry Road and Ryosenji Temple.
Many restaurants near Shimoda Harbor offer fresh seafood cuisine, where golden eye snapper simmering and seafood rice bowls can be enjoyed. Beautiful beaches such as Shirahama Beach are also accessible and enjoyable even in early spring.
Irohasaki
The southernmost cape of the Izu Peninsula, approximately 40 minutes by car from Kawazu Town. From the lighthouse standing on a cliff, a vast panorama of the Pacific Ocean can be viewed.
On clear days, the Izu Seven Islands can be seen, overwhelmed by the majestic scenery. Walking paths are developed around the area, allowing full enjoyment of Izu’s nature.
Things to Know Before Visiting Kawazu Sakura Row
Manners and Precautions
With many visitors enjoying Kawazu Sakura Row, manners for mutual enjoyment of cherry blossoms are important.
Manners to observe:
- Don’t break sakura branches: Don’t pull or break branches for memorial photos
- Take litter with you: While trash bins are available, bringing trash home is preferred
- Don’t enter private property: Be cautious as parts of the sakura row border private land
- Smoking etiquette: Refrain from smoking outside designated areas
- Sharing spirit: Share photography spots and don’t monopolize for long
- Keep voice levels down: Maintain a quiet environment with consideration
Bringing Pets
Strolling with pets is possible, but the following points require attention:
- Leashes must always be worn, held short
- Waste must always be taken with you
- During crowded times, hold pets or exercise consideration for surroundings
- Some restaurants and facilities prohibit pet entry
Barrier-Free Information
The riverside promenade along Kawazu River is basically flat, but some areas have steps or inclines.
- Wheelchair access is possible but accompanied assistance is desirable
- The Kawazu Station area is relatively barrier-free developed
- Multi-purpose restrooms are installed at major points
- Access from parking areas to sakura row varies by location, advance confirmation is recommended
Summary: The Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Experience at Kawazu Sakura Row
Kawazu Sakura Row in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, is nationally known as Honshu’s premier cherry blossom viewing spot that announces spring’s earliest arrival, captivating many visitors annually. The approximately 800 deep pink Kawazu cherry trees blooming over approximately 4 km along the Kawazu River possess vibrant beauty distinct from Somei Yoshino, and with a long approximately-one-month bloom period, provide cherry blossom viewing opportunities for many people.
The Kawazu Sakura Festival held from early February to early March offers not only sakura row viewing but also local specialty food stall cuisine, nighttime illumination, and various other enjoyments. The excellent train accessibility and proximity to Kawazu Station upon walking are additional attractions.
Whether enjoying morning sun-lit blossoms during quiet early hours, savoring stall gourmet while strolling through daytime crowds, or viewing fantastic night sakura under illumination from afternoon onward. Kawazu Sakura Row displays different expressions at different times, offering new discoveries with each visit.
With such nearby tourist resources as Kawazu Seven Falls, Shimoda historic sites, and hot springs, one can fully enjoy Izu’s attractions along with cherry blossoms. Please confirm the bloom status in advance and visit Kawazu Sakura Row at the optimal timing, enjoying Honshu’s earliest spring arrival.
The landscape of the Kawazu River dyed in deep pink will surely become an unforgettable spring memory.
