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 blossoms begin to bloom in mid-February, with peak flowering occurring in March when the festivities reach their climax. Around 1,200 trees (800 Kawazu-zakura and 400 Somei-yoshino cherry trees) line the Kawazu River, creating two vibrant pink corridors of blossoms along the waterway. With enchanting evening illuminations, the beauty of the cherry blossom season is truly breathtaking.
Riverside cherry blossom trees bloom in unison, forming a pink ribbon. (Image source / Kawazu Sakura Festival Information Bureau)
Pink cherry blossoms and yellow flowers create a bright and adorable pathway. (Image source / Kawazu Sakura Festival Information Bureau)
The Kawazu-zakura is the earliest blooming cherry blossom variety in mainland Japan. It is said to be a natural hybrid of the beni-shidare-zakura and the Oshima cherry, producing large flowers with a deep pink hue. Blooming typically begins around early February each year, with the full bloom period lasting about a month. There are many great spots to view the Kawazu-zakura, and aside from cherry blossoms, three riverside areas also feature golden fields of rapeseed flowers, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm of two kinds of floral splendor. Notable viewing spots include the cherry blossoms in front of Kawazu Station, the “Sakura of the Town Office” near the Kawazu Town Office, and nearby, you can also see the original Kawazu-zakura tree, which is around 60 years old. In addition, the “Toyochi no Sakura” near Toyohan Onsen is also worth a visit.
Cherry blossoms in full bloom. (Image source / Kawazu Sakura Festival Information Bureau)
Cherry blossom trees glow brilliantly under the sunlight. (Image source / Kawazu Sakura Festival Information Bureau)
There are also beautiful yellow rapeseed flower fields to enjoy. Another highlight is the area along the riverbanks, including Iriyama, Yunohana, Kawazuzakura Park, Futo, and Shida, all of which offer excellent viewing spots. The evenings are also a key time for blossom viewing, and there are many food stalls set up for night-time enjoyment. In addition to dining, live music performances are also available. For families traveling with children, there is also a dedicated kids’ area. The festival period spans roughly one month.
A one-month blooming period. (Image source / Kawazu Sakura Festival Information Bureau)
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