Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Guide
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival: An Early Spring Spectacle! Guide
Experience the magic of spring at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held annually in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture. Unlike the more common Somei Yoshino cherry trees that bloom in late March or early April, the Kawazu-zakura variety blossoms much earlier, typically from late February to early March. This makes the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of cherry blossoms weeks ahead of the main season. The Kawazu-zakura cherry trees were discovered in Kawazu in the 1950s, and their early blooming characteristic quickly made them a local treasure. The trees are a hybrid of the Oshima cherry and the Kanhizakura cherry, resulting in their distinctive pink blossoms and extended blooming period. The festival has grown into a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Japan and the world. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Stroll along the Kawazu River, lined with thousands of blooming cherry trees, creating a breathtaking tunnel of pink. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with food stalls, traditional performances, and illuminated cherry blossoms at night. Indulge in local delicacies like sakura mochi (rice cakes filled with sweet bean paste and wrapped in cherry blossom leaves) and sakura-flavored ice cream.
Transportation
The most convenient way to reach Kawazu for the Cherry Blossom Festival is by train. * **Train:** Take the JR Odoriko limited express train from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station directly to Kawazu Station. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.