Cherry blossoms herald the arrival of spring. This time, we will introduce four cherry blossom spots in Shizuoka Prefecture. Check the peak blooming period and be sure to go out and enjoy the cherry blossoms…

1. Atami Castle [Atami City]

The castle tower observation deck, where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama, is Atami’s best vantage point. Many Someiyoshino cherry trees are planted here, and the area is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. Many cherry trees are in full bloom and the area is bustling with visitors.

Access: About 10 minutes by car from JR Atami Station. From JR Atami Station, take the bus bound for “Atami Port” → get off at the last stop → take the ropeway → 3 minutes walk from the drop-off point. (Please check the ropeway operating hours in advance.)

2. Hamamatsu Flower Park [Hamamatsu City]

It is the main venue for the Lake Hamana Flower Festival, which is held with the catchphrase “Spring in Japan starts from Lake Hamana.” Every year from late March, 500,000 colorful tulips bloom one after another, competing with the 1,300 cherry trees that decorate the garden.

It is said to be the most beautiful “cherry blossom and tulip garden” in the world.

Access: Take the bus bound for Kanzanji Onsen from bus stop number 1 at the north exit bus terminal of JR Hamamatsu Station, and get off at the Flower Park bus stop (approximately 40 minutes). Approximately 15 minutes from the Hamamatsu-Nishi Interchange on the Tomei Expressway.

3. Izu Highlands Cherry Blossom Tree Line [Ito City]

▲Photo provided：Ito City Tourism Division

The 3,000m-long row of cherry trees turns brilliantly colored, making it a popular photo spot and driving course. The rows of cherry trees are affectionately known as the “cherry blossom tunnel” or “cherry blossom arch.”

▲Photo provided：Ito City Tourism Division

The rows of cherry blossom trees brighten up Izu’s spring season and attract many visitors.

Access: Immediately after getting off at Izu-Kogen Station on the Izu Kyuko Line

4. Hamamatsu Castle Park [Hamamatsu City]

Hamamatsu’s best cherry blossom viewing spot. In spring, approximately 330 cherry trees bloom in full glory, surrounding the castle tower. Many cherry blossom viewers come from inside and outside the city to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms both day and night.

Access: Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal, bus stop 13, get off at “Hamamatsu Castle Park Entrance” or bus terminal stop 1, get off at “City Hall South”.