Most travelers imagine cherry blossoms in spring, but Atami Zakura（熱海桜） bloom much earlier. From late December to February, this variety of cherry tree paints the seaside city of Atami with bright pink blossoms, making it the earliest cherry blossoms in Japan. Located just 40 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, Atami offers an easy day trip or overnight escape. This guide explains blooming times, highlights, events, access, and tips to enjoy your winter hanami.Atami Cherry Blossom Season: From January to early February.Atami Cherry Blossom is one of the earliest blooming cherry blossoms in Japan, alongside the cold-weather cherry blossoms of Okinawa. It blooms about a month earlier than the famous Kawazu Cherry Blossom, which is widely recognized for its early flowering. Additionally, while most cherry blossoms bloom for just 1-2 weeks, Atami Cherry Blossom boasts a much longer blooming period of over a month.The reason for this extended blooming period lies in the way the flowers grow. Each branch develops two stages of buds: the first blooms early, and the second blooms later, resulting in a prolonged viewing season.What is Atami Zakura? Atami Zakura are a special early-blooming type related to the Kanhi-zakura, characterized by vivid pink petals. Visitors can enjoy them in two main spots:Itokawa Promenade（糸川遊歩道） – A riverside path lined with cherry trees, featuring evening illuminations.Atami Plum Garden（熱海梅園） – Famous for its plum blossoms, but also home to early-blooming cherry trees, creating the rare chance to see both plum and cherry together.Blooming period: usually from late December to February, much earlier than Tokyo (late March–April).Blooming Season ComparisonLocationBlooming PeriodAtami Zakura (Atami)Late Dec – FebTokyo (Ueno, Chidorigafuchi)Late Mar – Early AprKyoto (Philosopher’s Path)Early AprHow to Visit & Events AccessFrom Tokyo to AtamiShinkansen (Hikari): as fast as 35 minutesShinkansen (Kodama): about 40–50 minutesFrom Atami StationTo Itokawa Promenade: 10–15 min walkTo Atami Plum Garden: 15 min by bus / 30 min walkEventsItokawa Sakura Festival（あたみ桜糸川桜まつり）Usually mid-January to early FebruaryNight illuminations, local food stalls2026 schedule: 1/10~2/8Atami Plum Festival（熱海梅園梅まつり）Usually early January to early MarchTea ceremonies, cultural performances2026 schedule: 1/10~3/8Recommended Itinerary from TokyoDepart Tokyo in the morningWalk along Itokawa Promenade for cherry blossomsVisit Atami Plum Garden to enjoy both plum and cherryRelax in a hot spring bathDinner with fresh seafoodNighttime cherry blossom illuminationEnjoy a hot spring and stay overnight in Atami for more relaxing experienceTips & Common MistakesCheck the latest bloom status – Weather affects timing.Avoid peak crowds – Visit on weekdays or mornings.Dress warmly – December–February is cold, with sea breezes.Accessibility – Itokawa is mostly flat, while Atami Plum Garden has slopes and uneven paths.Pre-Visit ChecklistPlease check the “Cherry Blossom Blooming Conditions” page for the latest updates.Check the weather forecast and bring warm clothing if necessary:Japan Meteorological Agency Weather Forecast (English)We recommend visiting on weekdays or in the morning on weekends for a smoother experience.