The original tree was accidentally discovered in 1955 by a local resident named Yoichi Iida along the banks of the Kawazu River.
Genetic testing identifies this cultivar as a natural hybrid between Oshima-zakura and Hikan-zakura.
The tree is estimated to be roughly 70 years old as of 2026.
Kawazu-zakura is the earliest blooming cherry variety in the Izu Peninsula region.
The bloom duration of this specific tree typically lasts longer than the standard one-week peak for most cherry blossoms.
The Kawazu Sakura Original Tree is the progenitor of the Kawazu-zakura variety, a unique cherry blossom species discovered in 1955. Located on a private residential property in Kawazu, Shizuoka, the tree is approximately 70 years old. It is an Oshima-zakura and Hikan-zakura hybrid known for its early blooming period, typically occurring from early February to early March. Unlike the common Somei Yoshino cherry trees, this specimen produces distinct, large, deep-pink petals. The tree is designated as a protected natural treasure by the local town government. Visitors can view the tree from a designated public viewing area situated on the edge of the property. The surrounding Kawazu River area features over 8,000 descendants of this original tree, creating the famous cherry blossom corridor.
The designated public viewing point directly in front of the tree fence, allowing for a clear shot of the trunk and blossoms.
Visit during the early morning hours to avoid peak crowds from tour buses.
Bring a camera with a macro lens to capture the unique texture and deep color of the petals.
Ensure you stay within the marked public observation zones as the tree is on private property.
Do not visit outside of the peak blooming season, as the tree looks like an ordinary, non-flowering deciduous tree for the rest of the year.
The tree is only visually significant during the early spring blooming season.
Respect the privacy of the property owners; do not cross fences or enter private gardens.
