Earliest Cherry Blossoms in Japan: Atami Zakura (Atami Cherry Blossom) Guide

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 Comparison

How to Visit & Events 

Access

• From Tokyo to Atami

  Shinkansen (Hikari): as fast as 35 minutes

  Shinkansen (Kodama): about 40–50 minutes

• From Atami Station

  To Itokawa Promenade: 10–15 min walk

  To Atami Plum Garden: 15 min by bus / 30 min walk

Events

• Itokawa Sakura Festival（あたみ桜糸川桜まつり）

  Usually mid-January to early February

  Night illuminations, local food stalls

  2027 schedule: 1/9~2/7
  

• Atami Plum Festival（熱海梅園梅まつり）

  Usually early January to early March

  Tea ceremonies, cultural performances

  2027 schedule: 1/9~3/7

Recommended Itinerary from Tokyo

1. Depart Tokyo in the morning

2. Walk along Itokawa Promenade for cherry blossoms

3. Visit Atami Plum Garden to enjoy both plum and cherry

4. Relax in a hot spring bath

5. Dinner with fresh seafood

6. Nighttime cherry blossom illumination

7. Enjoy a hot spring and stay overnight in Atami for more relaxing experience

Tips & Common Mistakes

• Check 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 Checklist

• Please 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.