If you think cherry blossom season in Japan only happens in April, think again! Nestled in the picturesque Izu Peninsula, the town of Kawazu is home to one of Japan’s earliest and most breathtaking cherry blossom displays. The Kawazu Sakura Festival is in full bloom right now in March, offering visitors a rare chance to experience stunning pink blossoms long before the famous Somei Yoshino trees begin to flower.
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Why Kawazu Sakura is Special
Unlike the delicate pale pink cherry blossoms you might be familiar with, Kawazu Sakura is a vibrant shade of pink and stays in bloom for nearly a month—much longer than typical sakura. Walking along the Kawazu River, you’ll be surrounded by over 8,000 cherry trees in full bloom, creating a tunnel of pink petals that feels like a scene from a dream.
More Than Just Cherry Blossoms
The festival isn’t just about admiring the flowers! The streets near the river come alive with local food stalls, offering everything from freshly grilled seafood to sakura-themed treats like sakura mochi and pink soft-serve ice cream. You can also find unique souvenirs and warm up with a cup of amazake (sweet rice wine) as you stroll through the festival.
Avoid the Crowds – Stay Overnight and Enjoy the Night View
Since Kawazu Sakura is gaining popularity, the trains from Tokyo can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends. Instead of rushing for a day trip, why not stay overnight? In the evening and early morning, the crowds thin out, and you can enjoy a more peaceful and intimate hanami (flower viewing) experience. The cherry trees are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere.
End Your Day with a Unique Japanese Experience: Snack Bars!
After a day of admiring cherry blossoms, why not immerse yourself in local nightlife? Kawazu and nearby towns have hidden snack bars, cozy and intimate establishments where you can chat with friendly locals over a drink. It’s the perfect way to experience authentic Japanese hospitality while enjoying a relaxing evening.
If you’re looking for a less crowded, early-blooming cherry blossom experience with an unforgettable night out, Kawazu is the place to be. Come for the sakura, stay for the culture, and make memories you’ll cherish forever! 🌸🍶✨
Experience a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide tour
After you enjoy the place, you can go to Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.
Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.
When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!
Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.
New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!
