Kawazu-zakura Cherry Blossom Festival

Overview

The Kawazu-zakura Cherry Blossom Festival, held along the banks of the Kawazu River in Kawazu Town on the Izu Peninsula, is one of Japan's earliest and most beloved cherry blossom events, typically running from early February through early March. While the rest of Japan waits for the iconic Somei Yoshino to bloom in late March or April, Kawazu bursts into colour weeks ahead — a rare winter-to-spring spectacle that draws visitors from across the country. At the heart of the festival is the Kawazu-zakura, a cherry variety native to this very town. In around 1955, a local resident named Katsumi Iida discovered a small sapling growing wild along the riverbank. The tree was later identified as a natural hybrid of Oshima-zakura and Kanhizakura, and officially registered as a new cultivar under the name 'Kawazu-zakura' in 1974. Today, approximately 850 of these trees line both banks of the Kawazu River along a roughly four-kilometre promenade. Their blossoms are notably deeper in colour than Somei Yoshino — a vivid, almost magenta pink — and they remain in bloom for close to a month, making for a leisurely viewing window that sets this festival apart from the fleeting cherry seasons elsewhere in Japan. The visual drama is heightened by the carpet of yellow rapeseed flowers that blanket the riverbanks beneath the canopy of pink blossom — a pairing that feels uniquely Kawazu. After dark, illuminations transform the riverside into an ethereal scene, with the deep-pink flowers glowing warmly against the night sky. Food stalls serving local Izu specialties add to the festive atmosphere. For exact festival dates and details, please refer to the official website.

Access

📍 Address: Along the Kawazu River, Kawazu, Kamo, Shizuoka

Kawazu Station on the Izukyu Line is the nearest station, just a short walk from the riverside promenade. By car, temporary festival parking lots are available but fill quickly on busy days — public transport is strongly advised during the festival period.

Map

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