The stunning pink-and-yellow hues of the Kawazu-zakura cherry blossoms in full bloom, with thousands of trees lining the streets

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 
The Kawazu-zakura cherry blossom season in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka, is a major local event. The blooming period begins in mid-February, with peak flowering in March when the festivities reach their climax. Around 1,200 cherry blossom trees (800 Kawazu-zakura and 400 Somei-yoshino) line the Kawazu River, creating two vibrant pink floral corridors along the waterway. Enhanced by evening illuminations, the scenery during the cherry blossom season is truly breathtaking.

The Kawazu-zakura is among the earliest-blooming cherry blossoms in mainland Japan. It is believed to be a natural hybrid of the beni-shidare-zakura and Oshima-zakura varieties, producing large flowers in a deeper shade of pink. The blooms typically appear around early February, taking about a month to go from first opening to full bloom. There are numerous spots to enjoy the Kawazu-zakura blossoms, and besides cherry blossom viewing, there are also three riverside areas where golden fields of rapeseed flowers bloom, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of two different flower seas. Key cherry blossom viewing spots include those in front of Kawazu Station, near the Kawazu Town Office—including the Town Office Cherry Tree—with the original Kawazu-zakura tree just a short distance away, estimated to be around 60 years old. Additionally, the Toyochi-no-Zakura near Toyonaga Onsen is also worth seeing.

There are also lovely photo spots as well. Another highlight is the riverside area, which is another must-visit spot. Other picturesque locations include Irie, Minami-Izu, Higashi-Izu, Shida, and Nishi-Izu, all offering great views. The riverside area is also a key focus for night illumination events. In addition to cherry blossom viewing, the organizers also invite local artists to provide live music performances, and there are plenty of food stalls to enjoy. Visitors can also take a riverboat ride lasting about an hour to admire the blossoms from the water. For those traveling with children, there are also many fun activities available.