The 26th Minami Sakura and Rapeseed Blossom Festival Blooming and Parking Update for Saturday, February 10 Blooming Update Behind Minami-Izu Town Hall → 50–70% in bloom Behind Roadside Station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana → 70% to full bloom Hino rapeseed field → At peak bloom ※The flowers are now at their best. Parking Congestion Status Roadside Station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana → Full (remains full at all times) Kinomiya Bridge Parking Lot → Busy to full ※From February 10 to 12, the Minami-Izu Town Hall parking lot will be open free of charge (no attendants will be on duty).

Hello! This is the Kawazu Tourism Association. Last week, the "34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" started on February 1st! When you visit Kawazu Town for the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, be sure to enjoy the exquisite gourmet food of Kawazu Town! This time, I would like to introduce "Restaurant Merecy". ・Enjoy a seaside resort in Imai Hama-style French Please enjoy Imai Hama-style French while looking at the sea...! ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Restaurant "Merecy" 【Address】35-1 Mitaka, Kawazu Town, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Phone number: 0558-32-0109 【Business hours】12:00~14:00/17:00~21:00 【Regular holiday】Open open all year 【Parking lot】Yes Inside Izu Imaihama Tokyu Hotel. ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4~13 parking lot to Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Large vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots to the Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to the Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in 2024 will be held until Thursday, February 29! Every night during the exhibition period, the cherry blossoms are lit up at night and you will be enveloped in a fantastic scenery. This time, we will introduce the lodging facilities that you want to visit when sightseeing at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Have a blissful time with hot springs and fresh cuisine from Kawazu! The lodging I would like to introduce this time is "Izu no Dancer's Lodging Fukudaya". ・ Tradition and new aesthetic sense resonate, polished design"The ultimate in relaxation" created by modern craftsmen The "Extreme of the Scenery" that is integrated with the nature of Kawazu, the "Extreme of the Hot Spring" that continues to flow as a spiritual spring over a thousand years from the source tower that rises pure white steam, and here is the time when you can see the deep peace brought about by the new exquisite space and the sophisticated space. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Izu no Odoriko's Lodging Fukudaya 【Address】236 Yugano, Kawazu Town, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Phone number: 0558-35-7201 Check-in/Check-out is 15:00 last check-in 18:00, check-out 10:00. [Total number of rooms] 6 No shuttle service 【Parking lot】10 cars ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4~13 parking lot to Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Large vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots to the Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to the Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

The 26th Minami Cherry and Canola Flower Festival Bloom report for February 9 Areas where flowers have not yet opened are at 50–70% bloom, while the main venue area is at 70% to full bloom and is now at its best viewing time. We recommend changing your plans when you go out.

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in 2024 will be held until Thursday, February 29! Enjoy the early blooming cherry blossoms of Kawazu for three consecutive weekends! In this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots in Kawazu Town that you can enjoy together with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! This time, I would like to introduce the "Dancer Literary Monument of Izu". ・A masterpiece of Japanese literature The Dancer of Izu This stone monument was erected on November 12, 1965 Showa 40 in an empty space next to the "Fukuda House" associated with Yasunari Kawabata, to commemorate the stage of "Izu no Odoriko", and an unveiling ceremony was held with Mr. Kawabata in attendance. The stele is engraved with a passage from that famous sentence. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Izu Dancer Literary Monument 【Address】Yugano, Kawazu Town, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Phone number: 0558-32-0290 Kawazu Tourism Association 【Parking lot】20 passenger cars available ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4~13 parking lot to Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Large vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots to the Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to the Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in 2024 will be held until Thursday, February 29! Please enjoy the early arrival of Spring. This time, we will introduce the lodging facilities that you want to visit when sightseeing at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Have a blissful time with hot springs and fresh cuisine from Kawazu! This time, I would like to introduce "Nanataki Onsen Hotel". ・ You can enjoy hot water from your own source 24 hours a day, and there are three types of open-air baths: cypress, rock, and jacuzzi. There are two private baths, an open-air bath and an indoor bath, so you can relax without worrying about your surroundings. Meals are served in the room both morning and evening. Use the hot spring for day trips. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Nanataki Onsen Hotel 【Address】Shizuoka, Kamo-gun Kawazu TownNashimoto 372 Phone number: 0558-35-7311 Check-in/Check-out is 3:00 p.m. and check-out 10:00 a.m. [Total number of rooms] 20 【Pick-up and drop-off】Negotiable [Parking lot] 10 cars ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4~13 parking lot to Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Large vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots to the Ekimae Venue about 700~800m, to the Mine Onsen Venue about 700~800m [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Hello! This is the Kawazu Tourism Association. Last week, the "34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" started on February 1st! When you visit Kawazu Town for the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, be sure to enjoy the exquisite gourmet food of Kawazu Town! This time, I would like to introduce "Takumitei Ichiyama". ・ Calm interior with a sense of luxury You can enjoy our proud seafood bowl and tempura made with seasonal ingredients. It is a 5-minute walk from Kawazu Station, so please come and visit us with sightseeing. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Takumitei Ichiyama 【Address】78-2 Sasahara, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-34-2020 【Business hours】11:00~14:00/17:30~22:00 【Regular holiday】Closed on Mondays 【Parking lot】Yes ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Mt. Komuro in Izu Mt. Omuro was famous, but this was my first time. The summit was an unexpectedly healing area, and it seemed to be popular with couples who got along well.

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, the earliest event in Honshu where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, is being held. Please enjoy the arrival of spring one step ahead! This time, we will introduce accommodations that you want to visit when sightseeing at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Have a blissful time with hot springs and fresh cuisine from Kawazu! This time, I would like to introduce "Adult Hidden Inn Flower Wind". ・Built on a hill overlooking the sea of Imaihama. All 5 rooms have an open-air bath. Handmade hospitality with a comfortable space and seasonal ingredients. A woman-friendly inn. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Adult Hideaway Hana no Kaze 【Address】97-73 Mitaka, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-34-1188 Check-in/Check-out is 3:00 p.m. and check-out 10:00 a.m. [Total number of rooms] 6 【Pick-up and drop-off】Negotiable 【Parking lot】6 cars ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, the earliest event in Honshu where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, is being held. In this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots in Kawazu Town that you can enjoy together with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! This time, we will introduce the "Experiential Frog House KawaZoo". Japan's largest frog facility. Kawazoo, an exhibition and breeding facility for frogs. A large number of frogs from all over the world are always on display, from rare frogs to familiar frogs. In addition, Kawazoo's unique experiential exhibition has made it possible to have an unprecedented "frog experience". Frog lovers and non-frog lovers alike will enjoy it. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】体感型frog館KawaZoo 【Address】377-1 Nashimoto, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-36-3990 【Business hours】10:00~16:30 Last admission until 16:00 【Regular holiday】Open all year round 【Parking lot】Yes ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

2.7 Minami no sakura (Kawazu cherry blossoms) In areas where they bloom late, they are 30–50% open In earlier-blooming spots, they are at their best (80%–full bloom) Those planning a visit around late February will be disappointed, as there is a high chance they will have fallen by February.

The 2024 "34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" will be held until February 29 Thursday! Please enjoy the early arrival of spring. This time, we will introduce accommodations that you want to visit when sightseeing at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Have a blissful time with hot springs and fresh cuisine from Kawazu! This time, we will introduce "Kawazu Nanadaru Mountain Stream Onsen Tea House MIZUMARI". All rooms are proud of their guest rooms with open-air baths flowing from their own hot springs + kaiseki cuisine with the fruits of Izu's mountains and seas! Whether you're traveling with children or traveling alone, you'll be satisfied. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Kawazu Nanadaru Keiryu Onsen Tea House MIZUMARI 【Address】424-2 Nashimoto, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-35-0505 Check-in/Check-out: Check-in 15:00 Check-out 11:00 [Total number of rooms] 4 【Pick-up and drop-off】Pick-up available conditions apply 【Parking lot】Yes ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Opened in 1984 (Showa 59) as the “Hall of Shikkui Trowel Paintings: Chohachi Art Museum of Izu,” it exhibits about 50 works by Irie Chohachi, a master plasterer from Matsuzaki who gained renown in the Edo period. Chohachi developed a unique art form called shikkui kogane-e—plaster trowel paintings—that blends plastering techniques with the Kano school methods of Japanese painting, earning high artistic acclaim. Skilled plasterers from across Japan came together to create the building, which showcases traditional plastering craftsmanship. The museum won the Yoshida Isoo Award—often called the Akutagawa Prize of architecture—for its fusion of Edo-era and 21st-century design, and it has attracted attention as a world-class architectural work.

A wide area of the southern Izu Peninsula, including Nishi-Izu and Minami-Izu, formed from submarine volcanoes and volcanic islands that erupted before Izu collided with the main island of Honshu. Senganmon, which lies at the end of a walking path, and Mt. Eboshi, seen to the right of Senganmon, are parts of a volcanic neck—the exposed "magma conduits" that once lay beneath submarine volcanoes. At Senganmon, a tunnel carved by the waves cuts through the center of the rock, forming a huge gate-like opening. Locals once likened this to the gate of Kumomi Sengen Shrine at the summit of Mt. Eboshi and called it Sengenmon, but it later became known as Senganmon, meaning it is worth a thousand kanme (an old measure of value), or "a gate worth a thousand coins."

"The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" is being held. About 850 cherry trees bloom along the Kawazu River, and about 8,000 cherry blossoms in total! In this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots in Kawazu Town that you can enjoy together with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! This time, we will introduce the "Izu Narada no Sato Kawazu Heian Buddha Statue Exhibition Hall". ・ Sitting statue of Yakushi Nyorai and eleven-sided Kannon standing statue are lined up. A total of 24 Heian Buddhas are on display, including the oldest sitting statue of Yakushi Nyorai in Shizuoka Prefecture and the Nitenritsu statue, which has been acclaimed at exhibitions throughout Europe. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Izu Narada no Sato Kawazu Heian Buddha Statue Exhibition Hall 【Address】138 Yatsu, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-34-0115 【Business hours】10:00~16:00 【Closed】Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, year-end and New Year holidays December 29th ~ January 3rd 【Parking lot】1 microbus, 5 passenger cars 【Other】Admission fee: 300 yen for high school students and older, 100 yen for elementary and junior high school students, 200 yen for people with disabilities presentation of disability certificate, free for children ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

February 6th: 26th Minami no Sakura and Rapeseed Blossom Festival Bloom Report The cherry blossoms are early this year. Behind the town hall → 20–30% in bloom Behind Roadside Station → 50–70% in bloom (peak viewing) Overall, the downstream areas are also steadily reaching peak bloom. They are likely to fall by late February.

Ishibu Rice Terraces lie at the western tip of the Izu Peninsula in Matsuzakicho, Shizuoka Prefecture. Spanning about 4.2 hectares and roughly 370 stone-walled rice paddies at elevations between 120 and 250 meters, these terraces are rare in eastern Japan. They offer sweeping views over Suruga Bay, and on clear days you can see Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps. In 2000, the 4.2-hectare terraced area, which had been abandoned and covered in pampas grass, was restored and used as a catalyst for revitalizing the local community. In 2010, the 16th National Satoyama (Terraced Rice Fields) Summit was held there.

Hello! This is the Kawazu Tourism Association. Last week, the "34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" started on February 1st! When you visit Kawazu Town for the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, be sure to enjoy the exquisite gourmet food of Kawazu Town! This time, I would like to introduce "Izu Orange Center Restaurant Kawazu no Sho". The raw fruit juice is exquisite. You can enjoy your meal calmly in a wooden Japanese-style building made of gassho. From the window seat, you can also see Oshima in the weather. There are chair seats and tatami rooms, and child seats are also available. Itamae will cook the seafood and mountain food of Izu, and you can enjoy the meal alone or with your family. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Izu Orange Center Restaurant Kawazu no Sho 【Address】1266-31 Mitaka, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-32-1134 【Business hours】10:00~16:00 【Regular holiday】Irregular holidays 【Parking lot】Yes ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, the earliest event in Honshu where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, is being held. Please enjoy the arrival of spring one step ahead! In this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots in Kawazu Town that you can enjoy together with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! This time, I would like to introduce "Sotaro Cedar Tree". ・ Cedar trees on the Odoriko Trail in Izu The Sotaro cedar trees are over 130 years old and planted in Meiji 10, and "Sotaro" is the name of the person who developed this area a long time ago. The nearby Sotaro Park has a rest area for hikers. It is a forest road lined with beautiful cedar forests. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Sotaro cedar trees 【Address】Nashimoto, Kawazu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Parking】None ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property: Iwashina School Completed in Meiji 13 (1880), this school features namako-style walls and shrine-temple–inspired architecture. Blending Matsuzaki’s traditional building techniques with Western architectural elements, its design is celebrated as a masterpiece of wooden construction and is the oldest school building in the Izu region. This two-story wooden hipped-roof structure is symmetrically laid out, and its exterior is clad in namako-style walls. The tablet reading Iwashina School above the main entrance bears the calligraphy of then-Grand Minister Sanjo Sanetomi, and local lore says the dragon carved above it was made by master carpenter Irie Chohachi using only a chisel borrowed from a colleague. With its striking Western-influenced design, the building ranks among Japan’s older modern school structures, alongside the former Rikusawa School in Kofu and the former Kaichi School in Matsumoto. It was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 1975 (Showa 50). In Matsuzaki, strong local support for education raised donations to fund construction, covering more than 40 percent of the total building cost.

Hello everyone! Matsuzaki Tourism Association here! Matsuzakicho, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture, lies in the southern part of the Izu Peninsula, facing Nishi-Izu Town, Kawazu Town, Shimodacho, and Minami-Izu Town. Sixty-four percent of the town is forested, and with about 6,000 residents it has the smallest population in Shizuoka Prefecture. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Matsuzaki in Shizuoka Prefecture offers a peaceful, nature-surrounded retreat. We will share recommended information about the town, so please look forward to it. === Top sightseeing spots in Matsuzaki, Shizuoka Prefecture === Matsuzaki offers many popular attractions we hope you will visit! Experience the traditional Japanese agricultural landscape at the beautiful stone-walled terraced fields of Ishibu Rice Terraces; see works by Irie Chohachi, famed for his late-Edo period plaster paintings, at the Chohachi Art Museum; stroll along Namako Wall Street, where buildings preserve the technique of laying square roof tiles and raising the seams with plaster in a rounded pattern; relax at Matsuzaki Onsen with its day-use baths, guesthouses, and hotels; and visit Inashimo Shrine, whose ginkgo tree on the grounds is about 1,000 years old and designated a prefectural natural monument. Matsuzaki is full of recommended sightseeing spots. The Izu Peninsula, including Matsuzaki, is designated a Japan Geopark because its landforms and geology vividly reflect earth activity such as submarine volcanoes. In Matsuzaki you can feel the power of nature at geospots like Senganmon, Muroiwa Cave, Mt. Eboshi, Ishibu Rice Terraces, and Bentenjima. === Recommended gourmet foods in Matsuzaki, Shizuoka Prefecture === When you visit Matsuzaki, don’t miss the local flavors you can only taste here. Sakuraba-zuke (cherry leaf pickles), a traditional flavor, accounts for about 70 percent of national production and is made in Matsuzaki. Enjoy kawano-ri (river seaweed) with its distinctive taste, grown in the clear waters near the mouth where the Nakagawa and Iwashina River meet; fresh sweetfish caught in the same rivers; Eikyuu Ponkan, a sweet, juicy citrus produced only in Matsuzaki; and Dioscorea japonica (wild yam) grown from the bounty of Matsuzaki’s nature. These delicacies will please food lovers. They also make great souvenirs. === Recommended events in Matsuzaki, Shizuoka Prefecture === Events and festivals held throughout the year are another charm of Matsuzaki. In the agricultural off-season (typically from mid-February to May 5), seven varieties of flowers burst into bloom across rice paddies in the Flower fields in rice paddies; about 1,200 cherry trees line the Nakagawa River and are illuminated during the bloom season along the Cherry trees along the Naka River; and the Osawa Sakura Festival showcases a magnificent cherry tree more than 80 years old in full bloom. These events captivate visitors. On February 23, 2012—Mount Fuji Day—Matsuzaki declared itself "the town where Mount Fuji looks the most beautiful in the world." The grand panorama of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay is a spectacular sight you must see in person. With seasonal natural beauty, a geopark that reveals the earth’s grandeur, deeply flavored local cuisine, and warm-hearted events, we will continue sharing information to make you fall in love with Matsuzaki, Shizuoka Prefecture. We hope you’ll become captivated by our town!

The 26th Minami Cherry and Rapeseed Flower Festival On Saturday, February 3, six stalls will be open at the vendor area! Each stall offers items carefully made with selected ingredients, so quantities are limited. Open only on weekends and public holidays! Feel free to join the Garagara Pon lottery and win prizes! Tonight, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the cherry blossoms will be illuminated and bamboo lanterns will be lit!

The 2024 "34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" that started yesterday will be held until February 29 Thursday! This time, we will introduce accommodations that you want to visit when sightseeing at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Have a blissful time with hot springs and fresh cuisine from Kawazu! This time, I would like to introduce "Oyado Hanakaigetsu". "Hanakaigetsu" is located in Kawazu Onsen Township in Higashi-Izu, which is famous for "Kawazu cherry blossoms". The inn is located on a hill and offers a spectacular view of the ocean. Forget about everyday life and enjoy a leisurely trip to Izu. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Oyado Hanakaigetsu 【Address】807-66 Yatsu, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-34-0877 Check-in/Check-out is 3:00 p.m. and check-out 10:00 a.m. [Total number of rooms] 5 【Pick-up and drop-off】Negotiable 【Parking lot】7 cars ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Yesterday, the 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, the earliest event in Honshu where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, has opened. At night, the pink cherry blossoms are beautifully lit up. Please enjoy the arrival of spring one step ahead. In this post, we will introduce sightseeing spots in Kawazu Town that you can enjoy together with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! This time, I would like to introduce "Hatcho Pond". Enjoy a stroll on the hiking trail Amagi Volcano erupted repeatedly about 20~800,000 years ago. Hatcho Pond on top of Mt. Amagi was called a crater lake, but it has become clear that it is an active lake formed by the formation of a depression in the innermost part due to the displacement of an active fault on the slope of Mt. Amagi, and water accumulates there. On the gentle slopes of Amagi Volcano around the pond, primeval forests such as beech and Himeshara spread, and you can enjoy a walk. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Hatcho Pond 【Address】Nashimoto, Kawazu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Parking】None ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Hello! This is the Kawazu Tourism Association. The "34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival" started today, February 1st! When you visit Kawazu Town for the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, be sure to enjoy the exquisite gourmet food of Kawazu Town! This time, I would like to introduce "Oceans". "Crocodile food" that can only be eaten here, only the restaurant is OK! ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Oceans 【Address】406-2 Kawazu-chohama, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture [Phone number] 0558-34-0003 【Business hours】10:00~16:00 【Regular holiday】Open all year round ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

Hello! This is the Kawazu Tourism Association. The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival has started today. Enjoy the early blooming cherry blossoms! This year's event will be held on February 1 Thursday ~ 29 Thursday, 2024. This time, we will introduce accommodations that you want to visit when sightseeing at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. This time, I would like to introduce "Amis Droles". At night, the pool is lit up and you can enjoy a fantastic night pool. ◆ Detailed information ◆ [Spot name] Amis Droles 【Address】171-1 Yatsu, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka [Phone number] 0558-36-3333 Check-in/Check-out: Check-in 15:00 / Check-out 11:00 [Total number of rooms] 5 【Pick-up and drop-off】Yes [Parking lot] 10 cars ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

The 34th Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival starts today! It is the earliest event in Honshu where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing. Please enjoy the arrival of spring one step ahead. Here are some sightseeing spots in Kawazu Town that you can enjoy together with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! This time, I would like to introduce "Kawazu's specialty wasabi". Wasabi paddies are built in places with clean spring water. There are many wasabi fields in Kawazu, which has been blessed by the nature of Amagi, and it is one of the representative landscapes of Kawazu. Wasabi flowers are small, neat white flowers that bloom all over the rice fields in March. ◆ Detailed information ◆ 【Spot name】Wasabida 【Address】Nashimoto, Kawazu Town, Kamo District, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Parking】None ◇ ◆ ◇ Parking information for those who come to the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival by car ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ About the parking lot ◆ Business hours:8:30~21:00 ・Regular car ●Regular car 4 ~ 13 parking lot about 700 ~ 800m to the station front venue, about 700 ~ 800m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 200 yen ・Heavy-duty vehicles ●Large 1 and 2 parking lots: about 700 ~ 800 m to the front of the station, about 700 ~ 800 m to the mine hot spring venue [Daytime] 8:30~17:00・・・1 car / 5,000 yen [Night] 18:00~21:00・・・1 car / 1,000 yen

HELLO TO EVERYONE WHO WATCHES COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! This is the Izu Tourism Association. Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, located in the central part of the Izu Peninsula with a population of about 26,000, was formed in 2004 by the merger of four towns in Tagata County: Shuzenji Town, Toi Town, Amagi Yugashima Town, and Naka Izu Town. Two-thirds of the city is an area rich in nature occupied by mountain forests. We will continue to provide recommended information on "Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture", which can be visited by many tourists who are fascinated by the pleasant warm climate of the Izu Peninsula and the beauty of nature! This is my first posted, and I will introduce all the recommended information in Izu City! We hope you enjoy it. ■■Recommended sightseeing spots in Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture■■ ・Joren no Taki Waterfall It is a powerful waterfall with a height of 25 meters and a width of 7 meters in Izu Amagi, which is known for the "Amagi-goe"Walk Over Amagi Pass of Sayuri Ishikawa, and you can enjoy trout fishing downstream of this Waterfall basin and wasabi cultivation along the mountain stream. ・Old Amagi Tunnel Amagisan Tunnel It is a historic tunnel that opened in 1905 on the former National Route 414 connecting Izu City and Kawazu Town. With a total length of 445.5 meters, it is the longest tunnel of an existing stone road in Japan. ・Lover's Cape From the observation deck on the cape, you can see a large panorama overlooking Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay. It is said that if you call the name of your loved one while ringing the Love Call Bell three times, love will come to fruition. ・Doi Gold Mine It is the largest gold mine in Izu, which boasted the second largest production in Japan after the Sado Gold Mine in Niigata Prefecture from the Edo period to the Showa period, and is now reborn as a tourist facility where you can enjoy the gold placer mining experience, and is popular as a power spot. The Kogane Kan exhibits a huge gold nugget weighing 250 kilograms, which is also recognized by the Guinness Book of Records. ・Roadside station There are two Roadside stations in Izu City: "Roadside Station Izu Tsukigase" and "Roadside Station Amagikoe". The "Showa no Mori Kaikan" located at "Roadside Station Amagikoe" is a facility where you can learn about the plants and animals of Amagi. ■■Izu City's specialties and local gourmet■■ ・Wasabi It is the largest Wasabi production area in Shizuoka Prefecture, produced in the clear stream of Mt. Amagi, and is made with the blessings of nature without using Fertilizers or Pesticides. For fresh wasabi, not only raw wasabi, but also Pickled Wasabi, Wasabi miso, Wasabi Nori, Soy Sauce Pickling, and Pickled in three cups are recommended, and it is a popular specialty for Souvenirs. ・Shiitake mushrooms In Izu, which has a warm climate, high-quality shiitake mushrooms are grown. Shiitake mushrooms that have cleared strict standards, such as umbrellas that are about 4 to 6 centimeters in size and in good shape, are branded and sold as "Seisuke Donko". Both are also popular thank-you gifts for Furusato Nozei. ■■Events and festivals in Izu City■■ ・Kobo Daishi Fireworks Festival Held every year on August 21 as a festival to comfort the spirit of Kobo Daishi, it is a fireworks festival launched from the mountainside, which is very rare in Japan. ・Amagi Firefly Festival You can admire the Genji fireflies that grew up in Amagi. Surrounded by the fantastic light of fireflies, it has become a summer tradition. ■■Accommodation in Izu City■■ Izu City has a variety of accommodation facilities that cater to the various needs of tourists visiting the city. At the historic Shuzenji Onsen, you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality at a number of hot spring inns and hotels. Shuzenji Onsen also has facilities where you can enjoy day-trip hot springs, and the Walking trail in the Hot Spring District "Bamboo Forest Path" is popular as a photo spot where the lush bamboo is lit up after sunset. Izu City is rich in nature, deep history, local gastronomy, and heartwarming hospitality. While enjoying the scenery of the four seasons, please spend a time that can only be experienced in Izu City. We will continue to introduce recommended spots in Izu City, so thank you.

The 26th Minami-no-Sakura and Nanohana Festival The Minami-no-Sakura and Nanohana Festival runs from February 1st to March 10th. Aono River in Minami-Izu Town fills with the love-cherry-pink Minami-no-Sakura. Peak viewing is expected around February 10th. If you arrive by public transportation Get off at Izukyu Shimoda Station and take the Tokai Bus bound for Shimogamo (Platform 3). Get off at Kujo Bridge (¥780) and walk about 2 minutes to the roadside station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana, which houses the general information center. (The cherry tree-lined avenue is behind it.) The field mustard (nanohana) fields are right by Hino (¥620) bus stop. Tokai Bus tel: 0558-22-2514 Note: Trains do not run through Minami-Izu Town. If you come by car Head for roadside station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana. There are dedicated parking lots nearby; please use them. ⚠ When viewing or photographing the nanohana fields or the nanohana along the cherry tree-lined avenue, do not step on the flowers. Please use the paths and stairs at all times. Please use the festival’s designated parking areas. Do not park at shops or on private land. Minami-no-Sakura and Nanohana Matsuri🌸 Minami-no-Sakura to Nanohana Matsuri "The 26th Southern Cherry Blossom and Field Mustard Festival" 1st February - 10th March 2024 In Shimogamo, Minami-Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan Inquiries Minamiizu Town Tourism Association (General Incorporated Association) Tel: 0558-62-0141 (9:00–17:00, open every day)

This is the Minami-Izu Town Tourism Association in Shizuoka Prefecture. Minami-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, sits at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, a natural treasure where verdant mountains meet crystal-clear seas. In upcoming Cool Japan videos, we will fully introduce the charms of this small town of about 8,000 residents, leaving nothing out. Stay tuned! For this first post, we will briefly share recommended spots and travel information for Minami-Izu Town, and we plan to introduce as many places as possible. ■■■ Introducing sightseeing spots in Minami-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture ■■■ Minami-Izu Town offers many spots to enjoy the beauty of nature! You are sure to find a favorite place of your own. ◇ Irozaki Ocean Park Irouzaki Ocean Park opened in 2019 on a 100-meter cliff as a facility to better enjoy Irouzaki. Parking and rest facilities are available, and the Minami Izu Visitor Center inside the park provides geo-site explanations and tours. Irouzaki is also popular as a power spot for matchmaking. ◇ Yuigahama Beach This beach stretches 1.2 kilometers of pure white sand. It has a gently sloping seabed and calm waves, and it is busy with swimmers in summer. The stunning sunsets over the open sea make it a popular photo spot. ◇ Roadside Station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana This roadside station at the southernmost tip of the Izu Peninsula offers fresh local vegetables and specialty products. It’s a great place to find souvenirs and local gourmet food, so be sure to stop by when visiting Minami-Izu Town. The facility also features a footbath using Shimogamo Onsen water to soothe your travel fatigue. ◇ Hagachizaki Monkey Bay At Hagachizaki, a wild monkey park attracts about 300 monkeys that come to feed, allowing close observation of their behavior. It is one of the largest monkey parks in eastern Japan. ◇ Hirizo Beach Hidden between Irouzaki and Nakagi, this beach is accessible only by boat and boasts exceptional water clarity. The area is part of a national park, preserving vast, unchanging natural scenery. ■■■ Local specialties and gourmet foods of Minami-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture ■■■ Surrounded by the sea, Minami-Izu Town is blessed with seafood, letting you fully savor the ocean’s bounty. ◇ Spiny lobster (ise-ebi) Minami-Izu Town ranks first in Shizuoka Prefecture and ninth nationwide for spiny lobster catch volume. The spiny lobster caught here is known for its size and rich flavor. ◇ Turban shell (sazae) and abalone The coastal waters around Minami-Izu Town are rich in seaweed, producing nutritious, flavorful turban shells and abalone. Sazae-meshi, a dish that lavishly uses the meaty local turban shell, won the top prize at the 2012 Izu Specialty Market. ■■■ Events and festivals in Minami-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture ■■■ Minami-Izu Town hosts various events and festivals throughout the seasons. ◇ Minami no Sakura and Nanohana Festival About 800 cherry trees line the banks of the Aono River and reach full bloom a little earlier than elsewhere. Along the river by Roadside Station Shimogamo Onsen Yunohana, the festival features lotteries, food stalls, and nighttime cherry blossom illuminations timed with the blooms. The carpet of pink cherry blossoms and yellow rape blossoms together is a sight worth seeing. ◇ Yuigahama Fireworks Festival This fireworks festival takes place at Yuigahama, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Beaches, where powerful offshore fireworks can be enjoyed from the sand. ■■■ Hot springs and accommodations in Minami-Izu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture ■■■ Shimogamo Onsen is a historic and beloved hot spring; soaking there lets you forget daily noise and refresh both body and mind. With the sea nearby, hotels, minshuku, and ryokan at Shimogamo Onsen serve exquisite dishes featuring abundant seafood and local ingredients. We will continue to share attractive information about recommended spots to inspire viewers of Cool Japan videos to visit Minami-Izu Town. We warmly await your visit! Please enjoy a wonderful trip to Minami-Izu Town!