Phoenix Travel Agency:: Walk through the cherry blossom tunnel and head to the Izu Peninsula for a spring getaway!

Taiwan had just emerged from the chilly Lunar New Year, but Japan’s Izu Peninsula has officially ushered in early spring with the spectacular bloom of Kawazu-zakura (Kawazu cherries).

The Izu Peninsula, located about 100 kilometers from Tokyo, is not only a renowned seaside resort, but also one of the earliest places in Japan where cherry blossoms bloom due to its relatively warm climate. From early February to early March each year, the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is held here, attracting cherry blossom enthusiasts who flock to the eight-thousand-strong cherry blossom tunnel along the Kawazu River to stroll and admire the blossoms in full bloom on both sides.

Although Kawazu-zakura are single-petal flowers with large blooms and a flowering period of up to a month—unlike the quickly blooming and short-lived Somei-yoshino cherries found elsewhere in Japan—the Kawazu area is also covered with fields of rapeseed flowers. The lovely pink of the Kawazu-zakura, set against the warm, bright yellow of the rapeseed, creates a dreamy scene from afar and a picturesque one up close. If you have the chance to visit, try having a picnic under the cherry trees with onigiri (rice balls) and wagashi (traditional sweets), a uniquely Japanese delight. Additionally, there are foot baths along the walking path, so you can take a break and soak your feet while enjoying the blossoms—no need to worry if your feet get tired from all the walking.

★★★ Recommended Attraction = Odawara Castle Ruins Park
Odawara Castle was the stronghold of the Hojo clan during Japan’s Warring States period. To block Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s attack, the Hojo family greatly expanded the castle walls, making it the largest castle of its time. After the Meiji government abolished castles, Odawara Castle fell into disuse for quite some time until the donjon was restored in 1960 (Showa 35). ...Click to see all attraction details

★★★ Recommended Attraction = Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Loop Bridge is the area’s most famous landmark. The spiral curve of National Route 414 as it passes the entrance to the Okitaki Onsen cleverly solves the steep elevation changes with a spiraling bridge that winds its way down or up. The bridge stretches 1.1 kilometers in length, stands 45 meters high, and has an 80-meter diameter. Built with special materials and structures to prevent collapse from earthquakes, it opened in 1981 (Showa 56). The speed limit on the bridge is 30 km/h, allowing drivers to leisurely enjoy the bridge’s perfect structure while on the road...Click to see all attraction information

★★★ Recommended Attraction = Nakamise-dori
Vendors loudly hawk ningyo-yaki (doll-shaped cakes), senbei (rice crackers), and wagashi (Japanese sweets), while shops brimming with Edo-period toys, samurai swords, traditional umbrellas, and wooden clogs captivate foreign tourists with their glimpse into everyday life during the Edo era. The bustling Nakamise Street is always filled with the unique vibrancy of Asakusa...Click to see all attraction information

★★★ Recommended Attraction = MUJI Aoyama Store
MUJI fans simply must visit the Aoyama store. Though it’s just a modest three-story shop, this is the very first MUJI location—the global brand started right here. Although there are two larger, more product-rich branches within walking distance, the Aoyama store remains a top choice for many visitors to Omotesando...Click to see all attraction details