Tired of waiting for cherry blossom season? Good news—spring comes early at Yoyogi Park, thanks to its stunning Kawazu sakura! While most of Tokyo’s cherry trees wait until late March to put on a show, these vibrant pink blossoms start blooming as early as February. It’s a perfect spot for those craving an early taste of hanami.
When I visited, it was already a little late in the season, so the leaves had already started sprouting alongside the flowers. But honestly? It was still a joy to see after a long, cold winter. If you’re looking for a peaceful, crowd-free sakura experience, Yoyogi Park’s early bloomers are a must-see.
What Makes Kawazu Sakura Special?
Early Blooming Beauty
Unlike the more famous Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms (which only bloom for about a week), Kawazu sakura lasts much longer—usually from mid-February to early March. That means you get a whole month of gorgeous pink flowers while the rest of Tokyo is still stuck in winter mode.
Vibrant Pink Blossoms
Kawazu sakura is known for its deep pink petals, which are much richer in color than the almost-white Somei Yoshino. The contrast against the winter sky makes it a dreamy sight, especially on a sunny day.
A Rare Sight in Tokyo
Kawazu sakura is mostly found in Shizuoka Prefecture, where the famous Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival takes place. In Tokyo, it’s not as common—so spotting it in Yoyogi Park feels like a hidden gem moment.
Where to Find Kawazu Sakura in Yoyogi Park
The Best Spot: Central Plaza
The Central Plaza is the main area to see these early cherry blossoms. There are about 10 Kawazu sakura trees planted here—not a large number compared to famous riverside spots lined with rows of Kawazu sakura (check out the best ones here). However, Yoyogi Park’s convenient access and the fact that it doesn’t get overly crowded during this period make it an appealing choice.
Picnic Fun
If you’re planning a hanami picnic, this area is a great choice—just bring your own picnic sheet since there aren’t designated seating areas. Enjoying an early taste of spring under these vibrant pink blossoms is a peaceful way to escape the city’s winter blues.
Other Cherry Blossoms in the Park
If you visit later in the season, don’t worry—Yoyogi Park has other cherry blossom varieties too, like Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Satozakura. So even if you miss the Kawazu sakura, you can still enjoy a full hanami experience in March and April.
Best Time to Visit and What to Expect
Peak Bloom Period for Kawazu Cherry Blossoms
- Early Blossoms: Mid-February
- Full Bloom: Late February
- Flowers Fading: Early March
Since the bloom time can vary slightly due to weather, it’s best to check the latest sakura forecasts or the latest photos on Google Maps before heading out.
Weather and Atmosphere
Tokyo is still a bit chilly in February, so dress warmly! But the soft pink blossoms against the crisp winter air make for an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Yoyogi Park
Closest Stations
- JR Yamanote Line: Harajuku Station (5 min walk)
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line: Yoyogi Park Station (3 min walk)
- Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line: Meiji-Jingumae Station (3 min walk)
By Car or Taxi
- Taxis from Tokyo Station take about 25 minutes (~Â¥3,700).
- Parking is available, but weekends get crowded—public transport is your best bet.
Walking Routes
For easy access to the Kawazu sakura, enter via the West Gate and head straight to the Central Plaza.
