Kawazu Sakura blooms earlier than most other cherry blossoms in Japan, typically in February. This makes it particularly ideal for Hong Kongers or Taiwanese living in the UK, Europe, or North America who may return home for Lunar New Year and want to take advantage of the season to enjoy cherry blossoms. In 2024, after spending Lunar New Year in Hong Kong, I took a trip to Tokyo and was lucky enough to catch the Kawazu Sakura in full bloom. This travelogue shares my personal experiences (mainly my obsession with the dreamy pink taiyaki), along with practical tips like transport and blooming season to help you plan your visit!
What is Kawazu Sakura?
Kawazu Sakura (カワヅザクラ, Kawazu-zakura) is an early-blooming cherry blossom variety first discovered in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture. Known for its vivid pink petals and long blooming season—lasting about a month—it’s a top choice for cherry blossom enthusiasts eager for a taste of spring.
- Blooming Period：February to early March
- Kawazu Sakura Festival：Held annually, this festival features illuminated cherry blossom tunnels from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, creating a magical evening ambience. You’ll also find local food stalls and unique souvenirs along the way. For 2025, the festival will take place from 1 to 28 February, lasting a full month.
- 2025 Blooming Forecast & Updates：Kawazu Sakura Official Website
- Day Trips from Tokyo to Kawazu：Get Your Guide｜Klook｜KKDAY
Kawazu Sakura blooms earlier than most cherry blossoms in Japan, so you can avoid the busy March cherry blossom season.
How to Get to Kawazu Sakura
Travelling by train from Tokyo to Kawazu is a scenic and convenient option, with two main choices: local trains and express trains:
- Local Trains：Take the Ueno-Tokyo Line (Tokaido Line) from Tokyo Station to Atami, then transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line to Kawazu Station. A one-way ticket costs approximately ¥3,750, and the journey takes around 3.5 hours.
- Limited Express “Odoriko” Train：This direct service runs from Tokyo Station to Kawazu Station, taking about 2.5 hours one way. The fare is approximately ¥5,930, and it includes reserved seating. This is the most comfortable and convenient option, though it is more expensive.
I took the local train from Tokyo Station on the Ueno-Tokyo Line (Tōkaidō Line) to Atami.
I found lots of info online mentioning the Ueno-Tokyo Line, but the Tōkaidō Line is the same one.
Hop off directly to Atami Station.
This is the local train.
At Atami Station, transfer to the Ito Line / Izu Kyūkō Line.
I boarded the “Black Ship” train.
Inside the train, it looks like this.
Kawazu Sakura Pink Tunnel: A Dreamy Cherry Blossom Experience
Upon arriving at Kawazu Station, follow the crowd towards the river, where you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking cherry blossom tunnel. The dense rows of Kawazu Sakura create a pink corridor of flowers. As you stroll through, sunlight filters through the branches, casting beautiful shadows, and petals fall gently in the breeze, adding a touch of romance.
After arriving at Kawazu Station, you’ll see this map.
Exit the station and follow the crowd towards this tree.
Cherry blossom “appetisers” along the way.
Next, you’ll enter the beautiful cherry blossom tunnel! I originally wanted to upload a video, but it’s too slow to load here (haha). I’ll share it once I upgrade my hosting plan or get IG!
Sakura and the River: A Beautiful Landscape on the Kawazu River
The Kawazu River is another highlight of the journey. The cherry trees lining both sides of the river, forming a harmonious scene with the bright blue sky.
At the end of the tunnel, head up the stairs.
You’ll see cherry blossoms along the Kawazu River.
A wider shot of the view.
Pink Taiyaki: A Sweet Taste of Spring
Pink Taiyaki is a must-try seasonal treat during the cherry blossom festival, with its adorable shape and delicate flavours. Holding this sweet delicacy under the cherry trees, you’ll feel like you’re reliving the excitement of first love (laughs).
Such a dreamy vibe!!!
A Symphony of Colours: Cherry Blossoms and Rapeseed Flowers
Kawazu is not only home to the romantic pink blossoms but also bursts with the lively golden hues of rapeseed flowers. The contrast of cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers creates a vibrant, colourful field, adding extra cheer to the spring festival.
This spot is perfect for a photo shoot!
Local Stalls at the Kawazu Sakura Festival
As a new Brit, when travelling in Japan, indulging in local delicacies during the cherry blossom festival was a must—especially the freshly grilled seafood! (A small chuckle for my fellow island dwellers!)
I bought a grilled fish on a stick and went to watch the monkey show, but I was too focused on eating… forgot to take a photo!
The Kawazu Sakura journey is a wonderful day trip from Tokyo, particularly perfect for those visiting in spring. Since my trip was a family visit and I didn’t have much time, I only stayed in Kawazu for half a day. However, if you have more time, you can also enjoy strawberry picking, hot springs, and a visit to the famous Zenchoji Temple. If you’re planning to visit Tokyo in the spring, be sure to check out the practical information I’ve gathered here, or consider other day trip options below.
- Day Trips from Tokyo to Kawazu：Get Your Guide｜Klook｜KKDAY
For European trips, I tend to recommend Get Your Guide, but for Asian destinations, Klook and KKDAY offer more options. Of course, if you prefer a more leisurely experience, taking the train on your own is also a good choice.
To read more travel guides from the UK or Europe, don’t forget to click on my other posts!
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