🗺️ Eastern Izu Road Trip Begins
Late February—still cold, and this year’s cherry blossoms are blooming late due to the lingering winter. The organizers must be having a tough time, but we’re here to support our beloved Kawazu Sakura Festival by eating lots of delicious food!
We skipped breakfast and hit the road.
Driving through Izu is a healing experience in itself. The roads are scenic and smooth—perfect for road trips. As we pass through tunnels formed by trees, the charred silhouette of Mount Omuro gradually comes into view. It looks like a scene straight out of a car commercial.
🐟 Izu’s “Marseille”—Inatori
A breathtaking ocean view welcomes us in Inatori, a seaside town known for kinmedai (splendid alfonsino), morning markets, hot springs, and even a safari park.
We drop by Tokuzoumaru, a popular souvenir shop. They offer generous samples and are always a hit with visitors from outside Shizuoka.
The Izu Peninsula is surrounded by the sea and packed with scenic spots—many part of a UNESCO Global Geopark. You could say, “In Izu, throw a stone and you’ll hit a scenic view!”
🚗 Arrival at Kawazu
Parking attendants are stationed all along the road, waving you in like it’s beach season. Most lots cost about 1,000 yen.
At the festival’s entrance, many cherry trees are still in bud. But thanks to the live camera feed, we already know that the main viewing area is in full bloom—no worries! Though, it does take away a bit of the surprise and excitement.
🍢 Tempted by Festival Food Stalls
From grilled seafood to yakisoba and edamame, food stalls are set up in a “festival tavern” style with seating in the back. I love this setup—I’ve loved it for lifetimes!
I almost gave in to the first stall, but with stoic determination, I pushed forward.
The aroma of soy sauce, sweets, and savory dishes is overwhelming. With an empty stomach, I’m utterly defenseless.
🌸 850 Cherry Trees Along the River
About 850 cherry trees line the river, and 8,000 trees in total bloom throughout the town. The crystal-clear water is home to large koi fish lazily swimming through.
Follow the path along the blossoms and you’ll eventually reach the sea.
A charming tunnel decorated with red handprints by local children. Super cute by day, maybe a bit spooky at night!
☕ “Hodohodo” Café
A cozy café with a terrace and great location. They also offer takeaway. 10/10 for the view!
🐟 Kinmedai Croquette Truck
A staple in Izu—reliable and tasty. You’ll see them often at local events.
🛒 Aoki Supermarket
A beloved Izu gourmet supermarket known for its top-quality local ingredients. Prices are a bit high, but perfectly tailored for loosened purse strings during festival season!
🚉 By the Station
A statue of the “Izu Dancer” reminds us of the literary history of Izu. Nearby Atami has the “Golden Demon” statue of Kanichi and Omiya—infamous for their dramatic love story.
Being near the station is convenient for travelers.
We pass by the famous Robata Izakaya—a popular spot with a long line. It was tempting, but today’s mission is festival food, so we keep moving.
The festival area is massive. It’s hard to measure, but think multiple Tokyo Domes!
🥤 In Search of a Meal
After wandering for a while, stomach acid levels are dangerously rising—must eat soon.
We spot many shops offering freshly squeezed mandarin juice, a specialty of Higashi-Izu. But citrus was a no-go for my empty stomach.
We find a stand selling grilled dango, warabi mochi, and karinto manju—all mouthwatering. But waiting in line while starving is risky… a hole in the stomach could open!
🍄 Mushroom Soup for 200 Yen?!
Wild mushroom miso soup for just 200 yen? You bet we’re going in.
We try a juicy, chewy sample of donko shiitake. The indoor space includes a souvenir shop and has a friendly, energetic market vibe.
Hand over half your ticket from the vending machine and enjoy:
Beer + Doteni stew + Mushroom soup = happiness.
The mushroom soup is packed with ingredients. Great texture, delicious and rare wild mushrooms—for only 200 yen. Winner of the “Best Value” Award!
🧂 Free Samples Galore
A couple of samples and some condiments were neatly placed on the table—simple, but thoughtful service.
We try spicy wasabi snacks—just the right amount of tingling heat.
All the staff are cheerful and attentive. Despite the crowds, it was a relaxing, satisfying experience. Thank you!
🌿 Riverside Break
You can descend to the riverbank—great for a break while listening to birdsong.
When you think of wasabi, you think of Izu—and vice versa!
🍖 Local Game Cuisine
A wild boar hotpot stand draws quite a female crowd.
The “Unnamed Boar Hotpot Stand” wins the “Most Rustic Vibes” Award.
🍻 Yakisoba & Beer—Festival Staples
Small stalls form a cozy village corner. We grab Genghis Khan-style lamb yakisoba and a beer—sitting on the terrace, soaking in the vibe.
Robata grilling, Korean food, grilled rice balls, salt-grilled sweetfish… all good stuff. A vendor couple flirts while cooking—spring is in the air!
🥬 Kawazu Sakura Tourist Exchange Center
Inside, you’ll find a farmers’ market with fresh local produce. We picked up some goodies to take home.
✨ Evening Illumination
At night, the cherry blossoms are lit up until 9:00 PM, and some food stalls stay open.
We’ll come again in a few days to see the final act of the season—a pink flurry of falling petals. It’s a breathtaking sight.
Salute to Katsumi Iida, the discoverer of the Kawazu-zakura!
🚗 Access Information
🚌 By Public Transportation:
From JR Tokyo Station:
- Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (approx. 50 minutes)
- Transfer to the JR Ito Line, then to the Izu Kyuko Line, and get off at Kawazu Station (approx. 2 hours total)
- The festival site is a 5–10 minute walk from Kawazu Station
📝 Trains may be crowded during peak bloom season. Arrive early if possible.
🚗 By Car:
From central Tokyo:
- Take the Tomei Expressway, exit at Atsugi IC, and follow signs to Route 135 southbound
- Kawazu is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours away depending on traffic
🅿️ Parking:
Temporary parking lots are available around the festival area. Most charge around 1,000 yen per car.
Attendants will guide you to available spots.
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