Catch Early-blooming Cherry Blossoms Near Yokohama (From February Until Early March)
- Written by: LIVE JAPAN's editorial team
Seeing cherry blossoms in Japan isn’t limited just to April! You can also catch these gorgeous flowers slightly earlier—from February to March—if you know where to go.
Just around an hour south of central Tokyo is the coastal town of Miurakaigan, where a special variety of these cherry trees, called kawazu-zakura, can be found.
What Makes Kawazu Cherry Blossoms Special?
Kawazu-zakura are a type of early-blooming cherry tree that bloom from February to March each year. Unlike the more common Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, Kawazu-zakura are known for their vibrant pink petals and extended bloom period, making them a favorite for visitors eager to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms before spring officially arrives.
At Miurakaigan, visitors can enjoy the quiet beauty of approximately 1,000 Kawazu-zakura trees that blossom along the railway tracks from Miurakaigan Station on the Keikyu Line to Komatsugaike Park.
Conveniently located, Miurakaigan Station is easily accessible—just 63 minutes from Shinagawa Station, 73 minutes from Haneda Airport International Terminal Station, and 45 minutes from Yokohama Station.
When to Visit
To make the most of your visit, timing is key. Kawazu-zakura will be in bloom for at least 1 month along the Keikyu Line! Here's a typical bloom schedule for the Kawazu cherry blossoms:
・Early February: Blossoms begin to bloom.
・Mid to Late February: Full bloom—this is the best time to visit.
・Early March: Blossoms start to fall.
Be sure to check the live camera before your visit to see how this year's bloom is progressing.
- 21st Miurakaigan Sakura Festival: February 5 – March 2, 2025
- KEIKYU Open Top Bus Miura – Sakura Decorations: February 5 – March 1, 2025 (*Not in operation on February 12)
- Nighttime Sakura Light-Up at Station Plaza: February 5 – March 2, 2025, 5 PM – 8 PM
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
The Miura Beach Cherry Blossom Festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, especially on weekends. If you want to enjoy the blossoms at a more relaxed pace:
1. Visit on a weekday.
Crowds tend to be lighter, allowing you to fully enjoy the atmosphere.
2. Arrive early in the day.
The festival area is quieter in the morning, giving you a peaceful start to your day.
3. Consider park-and-ride options.
If you’re driving, traffic and parking can be challenging near Miurakaigan. Instead, park at a station farther away (like Shinagawa or Yokohama) and take the train to Miurakaigan Station.
Must-See Spots & Activities
1. Head to Komatsugaike Park
Follow the cherry blossom trail to Komatsugaike Park, a serene spot with a large pond surrounded by cherry trees. The reflection of the blossoms on the water makes for a picturesque view. The park also provides a great rest stop after your walk.
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Komatsugaike Park小松ヶ池公園
- Address 2, Kamimiyada-2518 Minamishitauramachi, Miura, Kanagawa 238-0101
2. Iconic Photos with Keikyu Trains
The combination of pink cherry blossoms, yellow rapeseed flowers, and the red Keikyu Line trains is a sight you won’t forget. Be sure to stop for photos along the tracks—just be mindful of other visitors!
3. Strawberry Picking
The area around Miurakaigan is dotted with strawberry farms, many of which welcome visitors during February and March. These strawberries are at their sweetest this time of year, and picking your own is a fun way to round off your cherry blossom experience.
4. Enjoy a Seafood Bowl
After soaking in the beauty of Kawazu cherry blossoms, treat yourself to one of Miurakaigan’s culinary highlights: a fresh seafood bowl, or kaisen-don. Miurakaigan and the surrounding Miura Peninsula are renowned for their fresh catch, particularly tuna, a local specialty. Many restaurants near Miurakaigan Station serve kaisen-don topped with generous portions of fresh sashimi, including tuna, whitebait, and other seasonal seafood.
You can even purchase a special day package (Misaki Maguro Tuna & Travel Day Trip Ticket) that lets you travel across the Miura Peninsula and sample the local tuna dishes.
LIVE JAPAN's editorial team is a multicultural mix of native editors who have lived in Japan for over five years, alongside Japanese editors with a deep passion for travel. We're devoted to sharing the wonders of Japan. From cultural insights and history to events, practical travel tips and coupons, we're here to help make your journey unforgettable!
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*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
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