Kawazu: Full Bloom

This year we started our cherry blossom reporting early - the first report was in January by Matt from Atami, followed by an Okinawa sakura report in February by Cassie. Both reports covered some of the early flowering varieties like the Atami cherry blossoms as well as the Kanhizakura in Okinawa.

Today, I continued with the early flowering cherry blossom variety reporting with a visit to Kawazu Town, south of Atami in the Izu Peninsula. The town was where the Kawazu Cherry Tree (Kawazuzakura) variety was discovered in the 1950s. In fact, the original/parent tree still lives and can be seen.

On my visit, I found the Kawazuzakura to be at their best viewing and expect the flowers to look pretty till late February. This coming weekend should be one of best times to view the pink blossoms. Every year, the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates these early flowering cherry trees, and this year is no exception. Until March 8, food stalls can be found along the walking path and the cherry trees are illuminated from 18:00 to 21:00.

Getting to and around Kawazu

Kawazu is about three hours from central Tokyo by train. From Tokyo Station, the direct Odoriko limited express trains provide direct access to Kawazu. Alternatively, take either the Tokaido Shinkansen or JR Tokaido Line to Atami Station, then transfer to the Izukyu Railway Line and get off at Kawazu.