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Meet Kawazu Sakura: The First Cherry Blossoms of Honshu, Japan
First, let's find out what makes our Kawazu Sakura so unique? Well, these beauties are a natural hybrid born from the Kanhi-zakura and Oshima-zakura.
They were first discovered by a local, Mr. Iida, right here in Kawazu Town way back in 1955. He transplanted it to his home, and that tree became the original Kawazu-zakura, now about 70 years old!
In 1974, this variety officially got its name, "Kawazu-zakura."
What's super cool about Kawazu Sakura is that they're the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in Honshu every year (early Feb to early March)!
Catch the Bloom (Early Feb - Early March)! Best Time for Kawazu Cherry Blossoms
Thanks to the warm current from the Pacific Ocean, the Izu Peninsula enjoys milder winters, which is perfect for our early-blooming Kawazu Cherry Blossoms.
You'll find them in full swing from early February to early March. That's almost a whole month before the more common Somei Yoshino blossoms, making Kawazu one of the first places in Japan to experience the cherry blossom front!
How Long Do Kawazu Cherry Blossoms Bloom? You Have 3-4 Weeks!
As I mentioned, one of the best things about Kawazu Sakura is its long-lasting bloom.
Each individual flower can stay open for 3-4 weeks, which is a generous amount of time compared to the fleeting beauty of Somei Yoshino (which only lasts about 7 days).
This means you have a much more relaxed window to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Even if you come a bit later in the season, you'll still likely catch a beautiful display!
Best Spots to Catch Kawazu Sakura
Kawazu Town, Izu: The Birthplace of Kawazu Sakura
Kawazu Sakura Avenue: This is the main artery of pink! Stroll along the Kawazu River and be enveloped by tunnels of blossoms. It's seriously a sight to behold, especially with the yellow rapeseed flowers blooming nearby, creating a stunning color contrast.
Kawazu Sakura Original Tree: Pay your respects to the very first Kawazu cherry tree! It's located near Mr. Iida's former residence. Remember, it's a private area, so please admire it quietly.
Mine Onsen Daifunto Park: Upstream from Kawazu, enjoy Kawazu Sakura while soaking your feet in a free foot bath (ashiyu). It's less crowded and blooms the same time as the Kawazu Sakura (early February to early March).
Izu's Hidden Sakura Spots to Avoid Crowds
While Kawazu Town offers a vibrant festival atmosphere, maybe you're seeking a more tranquil cherry blossom experience? Luckily, Izu is full of serene spots to enjoy spring's beauty without the crowds!
| More Izu Sakura Spots | Blooming Season | Sakura Types |
|---|---|---|
| Aono River in Minamiizu Town | Early February to early March | Kawazu Sakura |
| Shuzenji Area | Late March to early April | Somei Yoshino |
| Izu Kogen Sakura Namiki | Mid-March to early April | Somei Yoshino |
Aono River in Minamiizu Town: South of Kawazu, find 800 Kawazu Sakura trees mixed with yellow rapeseed flowers. This serene spot, also blooming early February to early March, offers stunning contrasts and fewer visitors.
Shuzenji Temple Area: For late March to early April visits, explore Izu's oldest hot spring town. Here, Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms grace ancient temples, bamboo groves, and streams, offering a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
Izu Kogen Sakura Namiki: This 3-kilometer path, mainly with Somei Yoshino trees (mid-March to early April), is perfect for quiet strolls. Visit early morning or after sunset for an almost deserted experience, often with evening illuminations.
Here're More Kawazu Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan
While Kawazu Town on the Izu Peninsula is the most famous spot for Kawazu Sakura, Japan offers several other places to enjoy these early-blooming beauties.
| Where to Go | Blooming Season | Crowding |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo Odaiba Aqua City Kawazu Sakura Avenue, Old Nakagawa River | Late February to Early March | ⭐⭐ (Lower) |
| Kyoto Fushimi Yodo Riverbank | Mid-March to Late March | ⭐⭐⭐ (Medium) |
| Tsukumishi, Oita Prefecture, Shioura Peninsula | Early February to Early March | ⭐⭐ (Lower) |
Where to See Cherry Blossom in Tokyo | Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo 2025
Kyoto Cherry Blossoms: 2026 Dates, 11 Best Spots & Festivals
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival: Your Guide to Making the Most of It
The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is a fun-filled event held every February! (For example, in 2025, it ran from February 1st to 28th). It's more than just looking at flowers; it's a whole experience! Here are my top recommendations:
✔ Cherry Blossom Viewing: This is the main event! Wander along the Kawazu River, visit the original tree, and simply let the beauty of the Kawazu Cherry Blossoms wash over you.
✔ Sakura Festival Stalls: As you stroll, you'll find lined street stalls offering delicious treats. Look out for Kawazu Sakura ice cream, sakura-themed taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), and sakura mochi!
✔ Nirvanado Temple Visit: Take a moment of calm at Sawada Nirvanado Temple. It's a peaceful spot that offers a different kind of beauty amidst the festival's lively atmosphere.
✔ Nighttime Illuminations: This is absolutely magical! From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM during the festival, the Kawazu Cherry Blossoms along the river are beautifully lit up.
Here's a quick look at some activities from the Kawazu Sakura Festival 2025 for your reference. Expect similar exciting events in 2026!
| Activities | Time | Where to Soak in |
|---|---|---|
| Opening ceremony | 2.1 | In front of Kawazu Cherry Blossom Tourism Exchange Center |
| Cherry Blossom Viewing | Early Feb - Early March | Kawazu Sakura Original Tree, Along the Kawazu River |
| Food Stalls | 2.1-3.9 | Along the streets from Kawazu Station to Kawazu River |
| Night Illumination | 2.1-3.9 (18:00-21:00) | Walking path near the river mouth, near Odoriko Onsen Kaikan, near 11 famous trees, Kawazu Nanadaru Loop Bridge |
| Nirvanado Festival / Visit | 2.15 (10:00-15:00) / 2.1-3.9 (9:00-16:00) | Sawada Nirvanado Temple |
| Beer Train | 2.11/16/24 | On the Izu Kyuko train, which makes stops at Ito, Izu Kogen, and Kawazu. Advance reservation required on the official website. |
| Mochi Distribution (Limited 500 portions) | 2.22 | Kasahara Park Temporary Information Center |
| Wajima Morning Market | 2.15/16/22/23 | Kawazu Cherry Blossom Tourism Exchange Center |
Planning Ahead: A Kawazu Sakura Forecast for You
As your local guide, I'm always looking ahead! Based on historical blooming patterns, climate trends, and expert predictions, here's my Kawazu Cherry Blossom forecast for 2026:
Best Viewing Period (Full Bloom): Expect the Kawazu Sakura to be at its peak from February 15th to March 5th, 2026.
Bloom Duration: Remember, each Kawazu Sakura blossom lasts for about 3-4 weeks, and the full bloom period can be enjoyed for about 10-14 days. So, even if you come in mid-March, you'll likely still see more than half of the flowers in bloom!
Key Factors Affecting the Forecast:
- Winter Temperatures: If the winter of 2025-2026 is warmer than usual, the bloom might be delayed by 1-2 weeks. However, if we get frequent cold snaps, they might even bloom a bit earlier!
- Early Spring Weather: Strong winds or heavy rain in March can shorten the blooming period, so let's hope for clear, sunny days to extend our viewing time!
Best Time To Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms 2025 | Sakura Season in Japan
Tokyo to Kawazu: Your Transport Options for Kawazu Cherry Blossom Season
Getting to Kawazu to see the stunning Kawazu Cherry Blossoms is easier than you think! Here are your best options from Tokyo:
Direct Train (Limited Express Odoriko): This is my top recommendation for ease and speed! Hop on the Limited Express Odoriko from JR Tokyo Station directly to Izu-Kyuko Kawazu Station. It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes. It's a comfortable ride with lovely views along the way.
Shinkansen (Bullet Train): If you prefer the Shinkansen, you can take it from Tokyo to JR Atami Station, then transfer to the Izu-Kyuko Line to Kawazu Station. This route takes about 1.5 hours in total. It's a bit faster but requires a transfer.
Tokyo to Izu (Peninsula or Islands): Shinkansen, Train, Bus or Car?
Your 2026 Japan Trip: How to Plan for Kawazu Cherry Blossoms?
Want to make those Kawazu Sakura dreams a reality? Planning is key!
Is Tokyo to Kawazu Day Trip Possible?
Absolutely! A day trip from Tokyo to Kawazu is very doable.
If you take the Limited Express Odoriko, you can be there in under 3 hours, enjoy the Kawazu Cherry Blossoms and the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, and be back in Tokyo by evening. It's a long day, but incredibly rewarding!
Beyond Kawazu: Tokyo + Hakone (Mt. Fuji) + Izu (Kawazu)
For an even richer experience, why not combine your Kawazu Sakura trip with other fantastic destinations? You could create an amazing itinerary:
Tokyo: Start with the vibrant capital.
Hakone (Mt. Fuji): Head to Hakone for stunning views of Mount Fuji and relaxing hot springs.
Izu (Kawazu): Then, journey down to Izu for the early Kawazu Cherry Blossoms and the lively Kawazu Sakura Festival! This allows you to experience a wonderful mix of city life, iconic natural beauty, and unique early spring blossoms.
Only 3-4 Weeks a Year! Book Your Kawazu Sakura Trip with Asia Odyssey Travel
These beautiful Kawazu cherry blossoms only grace us for a short window each year, about 3-4 weeks! So, if you're dreaming of seeing the earliest sakura in Japan and dive in the vibrant Kawazu Sakura Festival, now is the time to start planning!
Why not book your Kawazu Sakura trip with 株式会社 Asia Odyssey Travel Japan now and let us help you craft the itinerary? We are local!
- We base in Tokyo, Japan. Balance local resources and package prices!
- We offer both budget Japan Group Tours and Private Japan Tours. Cater to all travelers!
- Themed tours provided! Pick from our Japan Golf Tours, Tokyo Tours, Mt. Fuji Tours, Kyoto Tours, Nara Tours, Osaka Tours, etc.
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