Kawazu

Kawazu, a coastal town on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, is famous for its early-blooming cherry blossoms. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in February attracts visitors who come to see the vibrant pink flowers lining the Kawazu River. The town is also home to the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, a scenic hiking area that inspired Yasunari Kawabata’s novel The Dancing Girl of Izu.

Beyond its natural beauty, Kawazu is known for its hot springs, with many ryokan and public baths offering relaxing onsen experiences. The Kawazu Bagatelle Park, a French-style rose garden, flourishes in its mild climate. The coastal location provides opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, while local restaurants serve kinmedai (golden eye snapper), a regional delicacy. Just two and a half hours from Tokyo, Kawazu is a perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.