When is the best time to visit the Kawazu Cherry Blossoms?

The Kawazu-zakura bloom from early February through early March, with peak viewing typically in mid-February. The blooming period lasts approximately one month. Exact timing varies annually based on weather conditions. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends during the festival period.

How do I get to Kawazu from Tokyo?

Take the JR Odoriko limited express directly from Tokyo Station to Kawazu Station, which takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, take the JR Tokaido Line to Atami, then transfer to the Izukyu Line to Kawazu Station. The viewing area is 3 minutes on foot from the station.

Is there an admission fee to see the cherry blossoms?

No admission fee. Viewing the cherry blossoms along Nanohana Road is free. Parking fees apply if arriving by car. Festival food stalls, vendors, and river cruises charge separately.

What makes Kawazu cherry blossoms different from regular cherry blossoms?

Kawazu-zakura are a hybrid variety discovered in 1955 that bloom in February, approximately one to two months earlier than standard Somei Yoshino cherries. They feature deep pink blossoms rather than pale pink, and bloom for about one month instead of one week. The contrast with yellow nanohana flowers creates a unique pink-and-yellow landscape.

Can I visit Kawazu Cherry Blossoms as a day trip or should I stay overnight?

Both are feasible. A day trip from Tokyo takes 2.5 hours each way, and the main riverside walk can be completed in 2-3 hours. Staying overnight allows access to evening illuminations and local hot springs, with several accommodations offering cherry tree views.

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Trees - Nanohana Road

4.3 (1422)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Apr 6, 2026

The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Trees along Nanohana Road in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, represent one of Japan's earliest and most distinctive cherry blossom viewing experiences. The Kawazu-zakura variety, which originated from a naturally occurring hybrid discovered in 1955 along the Kawazu River, blooms significantly earlier than the standard Somei Yoshino variety. These deep pink blossoms typically appear from early February through early March, extending the viewing season to approximately one month compared to the typical week-long window of other cherry varieties.

The scenic corridor stretches approximately 4 kilometers along the Kawazu River, featuring around 850 Kawazu cherry trees that create a stunning contrast against fields of bright yellow nanohana (rapeseed flowers) planted deliberately along the riverbanks. This combination of vivid pink and yellow has become the signature landscape of the area, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually during the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, which has been held every year since 1991. The festival transforms the quiet town into a vibrant celebration with food stalls, local product vendors, and evening illuminations that highlight the blossoms along the river promenade.

Visitors can walk the full riverside path, stopping at various bridges that offer elevated viewing perspectives. The Iinohana Bridge and Kawazu Sakura Kanko Kotai Bridge are particularly popular vantage points for photography. River cruises operate during peak season, allowing guests to view the blossoms from the water. The town's hot springs provide complementary experiences, with several ryokan and public baths offering views of cherry trees from their facilities.

Access to Kawazu is primarily via the Izukyu Line, with Kawazu Station serving as the main arrival point. From Tokyo, visitors typically take the JR Odoriko limited express, which requires approximately 2.5 hours direct travel time. Local buses connect the station to various viewing spots, though the main riverside walk begins just 3 minutes on foot from the station.

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Trees - Nanohana Road

4.3 (1422)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Apr 6, 2026

What other travelers are saying about Kawazu Cherry Blossom Trees - Nanohana Road

It is about 3.5 hours drive from Tokyo. Visited late February many cherry blossoms trees blooming. I think I read some where that there are 800+ trees. Really large crowd near the station. Crowds get significant less further away which in my opinion have trees that are just as beautiful. Toilets are horrible along the seaside. There is a public toilet in the city hall. Those are much cleaner.

Yau Hong Chong

Mar 4, 2026

Visited Kawazu today, 17 February 2026. The sakura were in full bloom. Kawazu is known for its early-blooming cherry blossoms in February, so it’s well worth a visit if you’d like to enjoy sakura before the peak season in March and April. If you’re coming from Tokyo, try taking the Odoriko Limited Express for an easy and comfortable ride. It’s best to get on the first train of the day. The area can get quite crowded later on, so make sure to reserve seats for both the outbound and return trips.

Lovely walk and plenty of good food. Must come if you have the time. Locals are super tourist friendly helping you out. Must try their sakura grilled rice cake and sausage with fresh wasabi mayonnaise

It is amazing and much better than the crowded sakura in Tokyo! This Feb sakura is darker pink than the April ones. I think this is nicer.

Past full bloom. Petals fell. It's the end of the blossom so be quick.