The stunning sight of 1,200 cherry blossom trees lining the waterways during the Kawazu Cherry Blossom season

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, translated by Zhang Yingying

The Kawazu Cherry Blossom season in Kawazu Town, Shizuoka, is a major annual event locally. The blooming period begins in mid-February, with peak flowering in March when the festivities reach their climax. A total of 1,200 cherry trees (800 Kawazu-zakura and 400 Somei-yoshino) bloom along the Kawazu River, creating two vibrant corridors of pink blossoms along the waterway. With illuminated night views, the scenery of the cherry blossom season is simply breathtaking. The event attracts two million visitors every year.

There are plenty of spots to enjoy the Kawazu Cherry Blossom season. In addition to cherry blossom viewing, three riverside areas also feature fields of yellow rapeseed flowers, allowing you to experience the charm of two types of floral landscapes at once. Key cherry blossom viewing spots include those in front of Kawazu Station, near the Kawazu Town Office (similar to a local township office in Taiwan), where you can also see the original Kawazu Town Sakura tree not far away — a 60-year-old specimen. The Tochikaneko Sakura near Toyonaga Onsen is also worth seeing.

There are also charming spots nearby, such as Nei Koen Park, which is another highlight. Other recommended locations include Yunohana Onsen, Yunokawa Onsen, Atami Onsen, Ito Onsen, and Shimoda Onsen — all are prime spots for cherry blossom viewing. The town also actively promotes nighttime cherry blossom illumination. Within the city, you can walk to view the blossoms, and if you drive, you can reach your destination in about an hour. There are also designated parking areas where you can enjoy a picnic under the blossoms.