Experience the earliest cherry blossoms in Eastern Japan and the unique culture of the Izu Peninsula.

Kawazu cherry blossoms are the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in Eastern Japan. To check the blooming status in Kawazu Town, you can visit the official website, which is updated every morning. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held from early to late February each year. During this period, there are many food stalls and unique souvenirs available for tourists to purchase near Kawazu Station and along the Kawazu River, creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms along the river while tasting delicious local snacks, offering a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. A special recommendation is the sakura-flavored taiyaki, available only during the festival. Freshly made, it is warm and chewy, and its pink color perfectly complements the cherry blossom scenery. Holding it under the cherry trees makes for a perfect photo opportunity. For those interested in night cherry blossoms, there is an evening illumination ceremony from 6 PM to 9 PM.
Transportation: If traveling from Tokyo, you can take the Odoriko Limited Express train directly to JR Kawazu Station. This is the most convenient and fastest method, though it is also more expensive. For a cheaper option, you can take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station, then transfer to the JR Ito Line to Kawazu Station.
If you are visiting the Higashi-Izu area for the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, you can also experience the Japanese Doll Festival, also known as Girls' Day, held from late January to late March each year. The main venue is the Hina-no-Yakata at Izu Inatori Bunka Park, which requires an admission fee. The exhibition features thousands of miniature hina dolls and large hina decorations, which are colorful and symbolize the healthy growth of girls. Additionally, there are souvenir stalls where visitors can purchase hina dolls and decorations. If you want to buy some traditional Japanese cultural souvenirs, consider hina dolls and decorations as precious travel memories.
Transportation: Get off at Izu-Inatori Station on the Izu Kyuko Line and walk for about 15 minutes.

Post by Chlooee | Feb 28, 2025