When people think about Kawazu cherry blossoms, they usually picture heading south of Tokyo to Izu, where they’re famous. But did you know you can also see them right here in Tokyo? These cherry blossoms are special because they bloom way earlier than most sakura, usually starting in early February, and they stick around for almost a month longer than Somei Yoshino cherry trees.
If you’re looking to enjoy Tokyo’s early cherry blossoms, here are 10 of the best places to soak up the pink magic of Kawazu cherry trees this spring!
Kawazu Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo
1. Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa – A Secret Garden Getaway

Tucked away in Minato City, the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa has a stunning Japanese garden that feels like a secret hideaway from the city. The Kawazu cherry trees start blooming in mid-February, filling the garden with soft pink petals.
As the season goes on, other types of cherry trees—like Somei Yoshino and weeping sakura—take over, keeping the garden colourful all the way until April. The trees look especially breathtaking against the red Kannon-do Hall and the pond, which are both officially recognised as cultural landmarks.
If you’re looking for a peaceful hanami experience, this is the place to go.
Best time to visit: Mid-February to early April
2. Kyu-Nakagawa River – A Stunning Sakura Reflection

If you love the idea of cherry blossoms reflected on calm river waters, you’ll love Kyu-Nakagawa River. The Kawazu cherry trees bloom in early February, turning the riverside pink. As the weeks go by, more varieties—like Okanzakura and Somei Yoshino—start blooming, creating an ever-changing sakura display that lasts for nearly two months.
One of the best things about this spot is the view of Tokyo Sky Tree towering in the background. On a clear day, the combination of blue sky, pink blossoms, and the reflection on the river makes for an absolutely picture-perfect scene.
Best time to visit: Early February to early April
3. Shinjuku Gyoen – A Must-Visit for Sakura Lovers

Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the best places in Tokyo to see cherry blossoms, and its huge variety of trees means you’ll always find something blooming. With about 900 cherry trees across 70 different species, this garden has something special in every season. The Kawazu cherry blossoms start the show in mid-February, followed by different types of sakura well into April.
What makes this garden extra special is its unique mix of Japanese, French, and English garden styles. You can wander through traditional Japanese bridges and teahouses, walk past perfectly lined plane trees, or just relax on the wide lawns while enjoying the pink scenery. Just remember—for 2024, you need to book a spot in advance to see the cherry blossoms here, so don’t forget to plan ahead!
Best time to visit: Mid-February to late April
4. Nakagawa Waterfront Park – A Long-Lasting Cherry Blossom Spot
Located along the Old Nakagawa River, this park is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms over an extended period. The Kawazu cherry blossoms arrive first, but they’re just the beginning. The park is lined with 256 cherry trees of nine different varieties, including Somei Yoshino, Kanzan, and weeping cherry trees, making sure that the beauty lasts from February to early April.
Because the trees here bloom at different times, it’s a great spot if you miss the peak season elsewhere. Even if you come a little early or late, you’re still likely to find some gorgeous sakura in bloom!
Best time to visit: Mid-February to early April
5. Kiba Park – A Hidden Gem for Kawazu Cherry Blossoms

Located in Koto Ward, Kiba Park is one of the lesser-known sakura spots in Tokyo, but if you’re looking for Kawazu cherry blossoms specifically, it’s a great place to visit. Right outside the Fureai Hiroba entrance, along the Oyoko River, there are about 100 Kawazu cherry trees that bloom in mid-February.
What makes this location special is that it feels like a secret spot. Since most tourists don’t know about it, you’ll avoid the huge crowds that gather at more famous locations like Ueno Park or Meguro River. This means you can walk under the pink blossoms at a relaxed pace, take plenty of photos, and really soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Best time to visit: Mid-February
6. Shiba Park – Cherry Blossoms with a Tokyo Tower View

If you want to enjoy Kawazu cherry blossoms with an iconic Tokyo landmark in the background, Shiba Park is the place to go. Scattered throughout the park, you’ll find a mix of Kawazu-zakura and Kanhi-zakura cherry blossoms, both of which bloom much earlier than regular sakura.
The real highlight here is the view. You can take a walk under the cherry trees while looking up at the towering red and white Tokyo Tower, creating a beautiful contrast of colours. In the evening, when the tower is lit up, the blossoms look even more magical.
Since this park is centrally located and easy to access, it’s a great choice for a quick hanami trip if you’re staying in Tokyo.
Best time to visit: Mid-February to early March
7. Inokashira Park – Cherry Blossoms by the Water
Inokashira Park in Kichijoji is one of Tokyo’s most charming parks, known for its large central pond and scenic walking paths. While most people visit in late March for the regular cherry blossoms, Kawazu cherry trees bloom here much earlier, making it a great early-season hanami spot.
The best way to enjoy the sakura here is by renting a boat and rowing across the pond under the pink blossoms. The water is calm, the trees hang low over the water, and it’s honestly one of the most romantic cherry blossom experiences you can have in Tokyo.
Even if you don’t want to go on the water, the park has plenty of space to sit, relax, and enjoy the blossoms, making it a perfect place for a peaceful afternoon hanami.
Best time to visit: Mid-February to early March
8. Happo-en Garden – A Historic Garden with Early Sakura
Happo-en is a beautiful, traditional Japanese garden that features bonsai trees, koi ponds, and a tea house. While it’s mainly known for its historic landscape, it also has Kawazu cherry blossoms that bloom around mid-February.
This is a fantastic place to experience hanami in a refined, traditional setting. If you want to enjoy the blossoms while sipping on matcha tea, this is the perfect spot to do it.
Best time to visit: Mid-February to early March
9. Nishigahara Minnano Park – A Quiet Neighbourhood Spot for Early Sakura

Tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood, Nishigahara Minnano Park is a great local spot to see Kawazu cherry blossoms before the main sakura season kicks in. The park has a big open lawn, perfect for running around, playing games, or just stretching out and enjoying the fresh air. There’s also a jabu-jabu pond, which is great for water play in the summer.
The Kawazu cherry trees here start blooming as early as February, bringing a bright splash of pink to the park. It’s a laid-back, family-friendly spot where you can enjoy a peaceful hanami without the big crowds.
10. Toyokawa Inari Betsuin – A Shrine with Early Cherry Blossomswa Senbonzakura
For a more traditional hanami experience, Toyokawa Inari Betsuin is a fantastic place to see Kawazu cherry blossoms in a quiet, spiritual setting. This small shrine is famous for its hundreds of fox statues, but in February, the Kawazu cherry blossoms steal the show.
The mix of pink sakura petals, red shrine buildings, and stone fox statues makes for a gorgeous and uniquely Japanese hanami experience. Since this spot isn’t as well-known as other locations, it’s usually very quiet, making it perfect for a peaceful visit away from the crowds.
Best time to visit: Mid-February to early March
Experience Tokyo’s First Cherry Blossoms of the Year

If you thought you had to wait until late March to enjoy cherry blossoms in Tokyo, think again! Kawazu cherry blossoms bring the city to life as early as February, adding a bright pop of pink to parks, riversides, and gardens long before the usual sakura season.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful riverside stroll, a hidden local park, or a breathtaking view of Tokyo landmarks framed by blossoms, there’s a perfect Kawazu-zakura spot for you. The best part? Since these cherry trees bloom earlier than the rest, you can enjoy hanami without the usual crowds, making for a much more relaxed and magical experience.
Want to make the most of Kawazu cherry blossom season in Tokyo? Whether you’re after a custom itinerary, a private tour, or a fun group trip, we’ve got you covered! Our expert travel planners can help you find the best hidden spots, while our local guides will make sure you experience Japan beyond the guidebooks.
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