Travel to Izu to admire Japan’s earliest cherry blossoms & explore the romantic ancient city of Kamakura

By Qidou Travel Network; Photos by Phoenix Travel

After winter comes spring, when flowers bloom everywhere. Picnic under the cherry blossoms with plum wine in hand, watch the petals fall like rain, and immerse yourself in a scene straight out of a Japanese drama—your heart will be filled with joy. The Izu Peninsula, just a short trip from Tokyo, sees beautiful cherry blossoms as early as early February, making it a perfect spot for a spring stroll.

Call me No. 1—the earliest cherry blossom season in Japan

The Kawazu-zakura cherry blossoms on the Izu Peninsula are the earliest to bloom on Japan’s main island, known as the “first early cherry blossoms of Honshu.” The blooming season lasts from early February to early March (the festival typically runs around Feb 10–March 10). Compared to the white Yoshino cherry blossoms, the pink Kawazu-zakura are especially charming. They bloom along both banks of the Kawazu River, not only featuring large blossoms but also a longer blooming period. The clusters of pink flowers are a delight to the eyes, almost making the air itself seem pink—a truly romantic atmosphere.

▲ During the blooming season, the cherry trees along the riverbank are at their most beautiful.

▲ Visit Kawazu Town during cherry blossom season and enjoy a romantic time with your loved one.

▲ In addition to cherry blossoms, golden fields of rapeseed flowers create a stunning contrast.

▲ Fully bloomed Kawazu-zakura

▲ Street vendors in Kawazu Town. While admiring the cherry blossoms, try some grilled Japanese fish.

▲ Pairing grilled sakura mochi with cherry blossom viewing is also a great choice.

Also located in Izu, Shuzenji isn’t just a temple but a famous hot spring town in Central Izu. Its quaint and elegant townscape has earned it the nickname “Little Kyoto of Izu.” Stroll along the streets, cross Katsura Bridge, and you’ll find yourself in a serene bamboo grove path full of Zen. Walking through the bamboo forest, the tranquil atmosphere makes it hard to leave. In the hit Japanese drama “What Did You Eat Yesterday?”, the “honeymoon” of Mizuki and Hirakazu took place in Shuzenji Hot Springs—the red bridge where the two took a walk together is Katsura Bridge.

▲ The red Katsura Bridge. Legend says that couples who cross the bridge hand in hand will be blessed with a happy marriage.

Visit the King of Japanese Drama Locations—Kamakura Monogatari　

Just an hour’s drive from central Tokyo, Kamakura exudes a unique charm. Countless Japanese dramas and movies have been set in this seaside town, such as the famous “Slam Dunk,” “Last Cinderella,” “Our Little Sister,” and Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s latest film “Kamakura Story,” which showcases the fantastical appeal of this ancient city.

Kamakura was once the political and cultural center of the Kamakura Shogunate era and boasts a long history. Among its landmarks, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the most iconic shrine in Kamakura. It’s reported that during New Year’s, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the most visited shrine in all of Japan.

▲ There’s always a steady stream of visitors at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.

▲ Ema wooden plaques and omamori charms are must-buy souvenirs at the shrine.

After visiting Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the bustling Komachi Street leads from the shrine to the train station. This street is lined with a variety of local snacks and specialty goods—it’s a paradise for foodies and shoppers alike. Try Kamakura-yaki, Totoro-themed merchandise, wagashi (Japanese sweets), colored paper... and the Genkikouan Kamakura Main Store is also located here.

▲ A corner of Komachi Street

▲ Specialty shops on Komachi Street

▲ The Genkikouan main store on Komachi Street

Only second in size to the Great Buddha of Nara’s Todai-ji Temple, Japan’s second-largest Buddha statue is also in Kamakura—it’s the Great Buddha of Kamakura at Kotoku-in Temple. The Great Buddha is the main deity of Kotoku-in and its face alone measures about 2.35 meters, with the entire statue including the pedestal reaching 13.35 meters, making it a magnificent sight. In 2016, the Buddha underwent a “health checkup,” including cleaning and restoration, leaving it looking even more radiant.

▲ The solemn and majestic Great Buddha of Kamakura.

Additionally, Odawara Castle, also located in Kanagawa Prefecture, is a historic structure full of stories. It has changed hands many times and was once known as the most impregnable castle in the Kanto region. Inside the castle, you can rent ninja outfits, samurai armor, and traditional Japanese clothing such as uchikake and jinbaori, transporting you back in time to ancient Japan. You can take commemorative photos with Odawara Castle as the backdrop, capturing unforgettable memories.

▲ During cherry blossom season, visit Odawara Castle to see the beautiful blossoms. Nighttime also offers the chance to admire the cherry blossoms illuminated after dark.

More related information:
▲ Tokyo Izu Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, Snowfall Forest Feast, and Hot Spring Spiritual Retreat (5 Days)
https://goo.gl/8KZHkt
Feb 18 (guaranteed departure), Feb 20, Feb 27
Tour highlights: Japan’s earliest Kawazu-zakura cherry blossom festival, one-night stay at a hot spring inn, and dining at the Hanafubuki Garden Restaurant
For details, please contact:
Phoenix Tours 0800-089- 789
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