Where Spring Begins Early

– Kawazu Sakura and Hot Springs in Minami-izu –

Report by Masahiko Kaji

Spring in Japan is widely associated with cherry blossoms that bloom in late March.
But in the warm valleys of the Izu Peninsula, spring arrives much earlier.I recently visited Minami-izu, located at the southern tip of the peninsula, to see the famous Kawazu Sakura, an early-blooming variety of cherry blossom.

The Izu Peninsula is recognized as part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, a region shaped by volcanic activity that created dramatic coastlines, abundant hot springs, and fertile river valleys.

Along the Aono River in Minami-izu, about 800 Kawazu Sakura trees line both sides of the river for nearly two kilometers, forming a continuous corridor of soft pink blossoms.

The trees here are large and full-shaped, creating an especially impressive landscape.One of the most memorable sights is the contrast between the blossoms and the steam rising from the nearby Shimogamo Onsen hot springs.
White steam drifts through the riverside air, while the pink blossoms spread across the sky above the river.

A Cherry Blossom That Blooms Ahead of Spring

Kawazu-zakura (Cerasus × kanzakura ‘Kawazu-zakura’) is a cherry tree variety native to Japan.

While Japan’s most famous cherry blossom, Somei Yoshino, typically blooms in late March in Tokyo, Kawazu Sakura begins flowering in mid-February.

Another distinctive feature is its long blooming season.
Unlike many cherry blossoms that fall within a week or two, Kawazu Sakura can remain in bloom for nearly a month.

Japan is said to have around 600 varieties of cherry trees, each with its own seasonal rhythm.

Kawazu Sakura is cherished because it signals the very beginning of spring in Japan.

A Moment of Life Beneath the Blossoms

While walking along the river, I noticed a newly married couple taking commemorative photographs beneath the blossoms.

Scenes like this are common during Japan’s cherry blossom season.

For many people in Japan, cherry blossoms are not only a natural spectacle, but also a moment to celebrate life—gathering with family and friends, welcoming the arrival of spring, and marking milestones.

In Minami-izu, where the blossoms appear earlier than anywhere else, that celebration begins quietly in February.

Tokyo International Hiking is a Facebook-based hiking group that enjoys nature in Tokyo and the surrounding areas.On February 15, 17 members from nine countries celebrated the opening of Japan’s flower season together.

＃Japan Mountain Day Foundation
#Tokyo International Hiking Club
# Mt Fuji 

On this day I explored the Akita side of Mt. Chōkai, walking from the mid-slopes down toward the foothills, including the Ryūgahara Marsh at Harai River and the Nikaho Highlands. At these lower elevations the autumn foliage is only just beginning. To my delight, I also came across a gentian-like flower, Swertia japonica (commonly known as Senburi), blooming late in the season.

Mount Chokai :Rising above the Sea of Japan coast, Mount Chōkai (2,236 m), lying on the border of Akita and Yamagata Prefectures, is a sacred volcano admired for its graceful, Fuji-like shape. The mountain is home to a rich ecosystem, from alpine flowers to colorful forests in autumn, and offers seasonal landscapes along with a cultural heritage that continues to inspire visitors.

＃Mount Chokai

＃Akita Prefecture

＃Yuri Honjyo Municipality