Shizuoka Cherry Blossoms: 9 Famous Locations and Tips

Shizuoka in Spring

Shizuoka Prefecture, southwest of Tokyo, is known for its early-blooming cherry blossoms. The western region, including Hamamatsu City, sees Kawazu and Kanhi-zakura cherries bloom from early February to early March, thanks to its warm climate.

In Shizuoka City, various early-blooming varieties appear from late January, followed by peak Kawazu blossoms in late February and early March. The eastern region, particularly Numazu and Gotemba, features Kawazu cherries blooming from mid-February, peaking in March, with scenic views of Mount Fuji.

The Izu Peninsula is especially famous for its early blooms, with Atami and Doi cherries starting in January and Kawazu cherries in Kawazu Town peaking by early February. Izu-Kogen continues to offer various blossoms throughout March, making Shizuoka a top destination for early cherry blossom viewing.

Beatiful Cherry Blossom Spots in Shizuoka

1. Hamamatsu Flower Park
2. Higashioyama - Hanakawa Embankment
3. Arasawa Furusato Park
4. Shimizu Kiyomigata Park
5. Shimizu Ward, Yui Yachiyo (Nishiyamadera Asoguchi Land Improvement District)
6. Ita District
7. Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika
8. ACAO FOREST
9. Rokusen no Sato Park

1. Hamamatsu Flower Park (Western Area)

Photo by AC

Hamamatsu Flower Park has around 400 early-blooming cherry trees, including Kanzanji cherry, Hina cherry, and Minato cherry trees. This assorted variety makes it a popular spot for enjoying early cherry blossom viewing. One highlight of the park is that visitors can enjoy various flowers throughout all four seasons in addition to cherry blossoms.

The best viewing period is from early February to early March when the soft pink flowers beautify the park. Additionally, the park features well-equipped restaurants and shops, making it perfect for families and couples to stroll and enjoy cherry blossom viewing in Shizuoka.

Events are also held regularly on the park's vast grounds, with various flowers welcoming visitors to the grounds.

Hamamatsu Flower Park

195 Kanzanji-cho, Nishi-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka 431-1209

In the vast 300,000 square meter garden, you can enjoy 3,000 kinds of plants that change with the seasons, including cherry blossoms, tulips, wisteria, roses, irises, plum blossoms, and seasonal flowers. The bright and clear Crystal Palace greenhouse, the Great Fountain Show where water dances in time with music, and the Flower Train, a sightseeing ride that runs through the garden, are also popular. The garden is also open at night during the cherry blossom, wisteria, and Christmas seasons. Winner of the 16th Shizuoka Prefecture Urban Landscape Award Grand Prize (Japan Institute of Architects Shizuoka Regional Association Award).

Hotels near Hamamatsu Flower Park

Hotel Wellseason Hamanako

Shizuoka Prefecture > Hamamatsu

4.4 /5

Very Good

9 reviews

$116～

Sansuikan Kinryu

Shizuoka Prefecture > Hamamatsu

4.4 /5

Very Good

7 reviews

$386～

Kaikatei

Shizuoka Prefecture > Hamamatsu

4.1 /5

Very Good

7 reviews

$195～

2. Higashioyama - Hanakawa Embankment (Western Area)

Photo by AC

This picturesque spot along the Hanakawa Embankment is home to about 400 Kawazu cherry trees, with approximately 130 Somei Yoshino cherry trees blooming from late March to early April.

The Kawazu cherry blossoms begin to gradually bloom around mid-February. Although the lingering cold is still present, visitors can continue to marvel at a soft pink tunnel until early March.

Every year, local events and food stalls coincide with the cherry blossom season. This means visitors can fully immerse themselves in the hanami (cherry blossom viewing) atmosphere. Coupled with the tranquil flow of the Hana River, it creates an enchanting cherry blossom spot that is perfect for strolling around with family and friends.

Higashioyama - Hanakawa Embankment

2671 Oyamacho, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture 431-1102

The Hanagawa Embankment, located in Hamamatsu City's Higashidaiyama district, is a spot with approximately 1km of cherry blossom trees maintained by local residents. From mid-February to early March, approximately 400 Kawazu cherry blossoms bloom dark pink flowers, delighting the eyes of visitors. You can feel the arrival of spring while strolling under the cherry blossom tunnel. In addition, during the best time of year, the "Tokyo University Cherry Blossom Festival" is held, selling local specialties and various events, making it bustling with many cherry blossom viewing visitors. The lights are also lit up at night, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic atmosphere that is different from that of the daytime. (Photo by AC)

3. Arasawa Furusato Park

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Arasawa Benizakura (mid-February), Kanhi-zakura, Yoshino cherry blossoms, and about 230 cherry trees are planted in the park. This provides a beautiful array of blossoms to enjoy during your visit.

The sight of the vibrant deep red Arasawa Benizakura in mid-February is truly worth seeing.

The expansive grounds feature many walking paths and resting areas, making it an ideal spot for families with small children to enjoy cherry blossom viewing. Known as a famed cherry blossom spot in Shizuoka, it is also recommended for those looking to experience hanami in a relaxed atmosphere while avoiding crowds.

Additionally, there are facilities in the area that offer local agricultural products. Visitors can enjoy seasonal flavors alongside the cherry blossoms.

4. Shimizu Kiyomigata Park (Central Area)

The coastal road and parks in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City feature around 480 Usuzumi-zakura cherry trees, making it a notable spot for cherry blossom viewing.

Blooming begins from late January to late February. The soft pink flowers stand out beautifully against the blue sky and the seaside scenery.

The approximately 2.1 km cherry blossom-lined path is perfect for a stroll while feeling the ocean breeze. It's an ideal spot for those wanting to start cherry blossom viewing early, enjoying the early-blooming varieties.

Additionally, local events are sometimes held during the season. Keep an eye on official information to enhance your experience!

5. Shimizu Ward, Yui Yachiyo (Nishiyamadera Asoguchi Land Improvement District) (Central Area)

Picture courtesy of Shizuoka Shimbun SBS

These fields were developed via an agricultural land improvement project, with around 450 Kawazu cherry trees blooming. They create a stunning pink cherry blossom tunnel from mid-February to early March.

One of the charms of this location is the ability to enjoy the contrast between the vibrant cherry blossoms and the serene rural landscape while gazing out at the sea.

During the cherry blossom season, locals often hold cherry blossom festivals, featuring booths where visitors can savor regional delicacies. For those looking to capture stunning photographs, early morning or sunset is the best time to visit.

6. Ita District (Numazu City) (Eastern Area)

Picture courtesy of Shizuoka Shimbun SBS

The Ita District in Numazu City is a quiet spot where you can enjoy about 80 early-blooming Kawazu cherry trees and around 20 Somei Yoshino cherry trees that bloom from late March to early April. The refreshing atmosphere along the seaside and the breathtaking view of Mount Fuji are major attractions of this area.

The Kawazu cherry blossoms, which start blooming around mid-February, have been carefully nurtured by the local community. These seasonal blooms have a long blooming period and offer a relatively relaxing hanami experience.

With fewer crowds, the tranquil atmosphere adds to its charm. It's a perfect place to stop by during a drive or to visit specifically for a stroll.

7. Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika (Eastern Area)

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A total of 3,810 early-blooming cherry trees, including Kawazu cherry and Kanhi cherry, are planted in this area. It is also known for its illuminated cherry blossoms every spring.

From late February to early March, vibrant flowers bloom all at once. Visitors can enjoy different atmospheres during the day and night.

The facility offers various amenities, including hot springs, accommodations, and restaurants. Therefore, it is a comprehensive resort that families, couples, and groups can enjoy. As a renowned cherry blossom spot in Shizuoka, it attracts many tourists from within the prefecture and beyond.

8. ACAO FOREST (Atami City) (Eastern Area)

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A total of about 1,400 cherry blossoms bloom in this expansive garden. This includes 150 Kanhi cherry trees, 50 Kawazu cherry trees, and 100 Atami cherry trees alongside Oshima cherry and wild cherry trees. From January to March, various cherry blossoms bloom in succession, vividly coloring early spring in Atami.

The park is not only home to beautiful flowers but also features many spots with breathtaking views of the ocean. As you walk along the pathways, the striking blue sea occasionally unfolds before your eyes.

The event "ACAO FOREST Early Blooming Cherry Blossom" is also held, featuring seasonal illuminations and special performances. It’s an excellent opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying the arrival of spring.

9. Rokusen no Sato Park (Izu City)

Picture courtesy of Shizuoka Prefecture

This park in Izu City allows visitors to enjoy around 270 cherry trees, including Kawazu cherries, Kanhi cherries, and Somei Yoshino (from late March). The Kawazu cherries start blooming in early February, followed by the Kanhi cherries with a slight delay. This makes it possible to enjoy cherry blossoms over an extended period.

The spacious grounds feature walking paths and rest areas, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the mountainous surroundings while enjoying the blossoms.

Local product sales and events are also held, providing a perfect opportunity to spend a leisurely holiday while experiencing the local atmosphere.

Rokusen no Sato Park

1041 Jo, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture 410-2503

Rokusen no Sato Park in Izu City is located on a small hill and is a park where you can enjoy the natural scenery of all seasons. In spring, approximately 270 cherry blossoms, including Kawazu cherry blossoms, cold cherry blossoms, and Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, will bloom, captivating visitors. In particular, during the cherry blossom season, cherry blossoms are lit up at night for a limited time, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic scenery that is different from the daytime. The park has a promenade, dog run, event plaza, and play equipment for children, so families and pets can enjoy it safely. Another attractive feature is the outstanding view overlooking the mountains and towns in the distance. This facility is free to use, so you can visit and interact with nature easily. (Photo by AC)

Hotels near Rokusen no Sato Park

Omisanso

Shizuoka Prefecture > Izu

4.3 /5

Very Good

3 reviews

$53～

In Conclusion

Shizuoka Prefecture is home to a diverse array of cherry blossoms, from early-blooming Kawazu cherries and Kanhi cherries to Somei Yoshino and weeping cherries, allowing for an extended period of cherry blossom viewing.

By exploring the blooming relay across various areas from the west to Izu, you can fully enjoy the arrival of spring. Be sure not to miss the best blooming periods and plan your visit!