Shizuoka: Cherry Blossom, Plum Garden, & Fruit picking Tour

Experience the Charm of Shizuoka’s Cherry Blossoms, Plum Gardens, and Fruit Picking

If you’re seeking a day filled with visual delights, local culture, and delicious fresh fruit, this tour offers a great way to enjoy some of Japan’s most iconic seasonal sights. Although we haven’t personally taken it, the combination of Kawazu’s renowned cherry blossoms, Atami’s early-blooming plum garden, and Izu’s strawberry fields makes it an appealing option for those wanting a taste of authentic springtime in Japan.

What stands out most are the spectacular pink tunnels of cherry blossoms, the peaceful ambiance of the plum garden, and the hands-on fruit picking experience. Plus, the inclusion of footbaths, cultural performances, and artisan markets adds layers of local flavor. The only potential consideration is that weather conditions may affect the timing and vibrancy of the cherry blossoms, so flexibility is key. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun activities in a single day.

Key Points

• Beautiful cherry blossom viewing along Kawazu River, perfect for photos.
• Early-blooming plum garden with a variety of over 470 plum trees.
• Interactive strawberry picking that offers tasting and souvenirs.
• Includes cultural experiences like footbaths and artisan markets.
• All-day guided tour with flexible booking options.
• Ideal for families, couples, and groups seeking an authentic seasonal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

The heart of this tour is the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrated along the Kawazu River, where around 8,000 Kawazu cherry trees bloom from early February to early March. These long-lasting, vivid blooms are a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

What makes Kawazu’s cherry blossoms special is their resilience and extended blooming period, often lasting longer than the typical Somei Yoshino cherry. The pink tunnel of blossoms is a sight that’s hard to beat, offering ample opportunities for stunning photos. According to reviews, visitors “loved the way the trees formed a perfect pink corridor,” making it a very Instagram-worthy stop.

However, it’s important to remember that flowering depends heavily on weather conditions. Some travelers noted that the timing can vary slightly each year, so checking the bloom forecast before booking adds peace of mind. The tour guides are experienced in adjusting plans to make sure guests maximize their viewing opportunities within the given window.

Atami Plum Garden: Japan’s Earliest Blooming Jewel

Next, you visit the Atami Plum Garden, home to over 470 plum trees across more than 60 varieties. The garden is a peaceful retreat, offering a different vibe from the lively cherry blossom sights. The plum trees bloom earlier than cherry blossoms, typically from mid-January to early March, making it a perfect early-season stop.

The garden’s highlights include scenic waterfalls, charming bridges, and traditional tea houses, which create a lovely atmosphere for a relaxed stroll. Visitors often comment on the serene environment and the opportunity to sample some plum-flavored treats. The garden’s cultural performances and artisan markets add a further touch of local authenticity.

While some reviews mention that the blooming period can vary depending on the weather, the staggered blooming in different varieties extends the viewing window, increasing chances of seeing full blooms during your visit. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a quieter, more contemplative experience amidst nature.

Strawberry Picking at Izu Fruit Park

A highlight for many, the hands-on strawberry picking at Izu Fruit Park offers an engaging, tasty adventure. This activity is particularly great for families or groups who want to get involved rather than just observe. You’ll pick freshly ripened strawberries, often described as sweet and juicy, and enjoy tasting them right on-site.

The park also offers strawberry desserts and souvenir shopping, making it a sweet addition to the day. Some reviews have mentioned the DIY jam-making workshops as a fun bonus, although availability may vary. The experience typically lasts around 30 minutes, giving enough time to pick, taste, and explore without feeling rushed.

This activity adds significant value, especially considering the quality of the strawberries and the opportunity to take home some fresh produce or souvenirs. It’s a hit among visitors who appreciate the chance to engage directly with Japan’s seasonal bounty.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts at a central meeting point where your guide, identifiable by a LION TRAVEL vest and flag, will greet you, ensuring a smooth beginning. The day unfolds with:

• Izu Fruit Park: A 30-minute stop for strawberry picking, tasting, and exploring. Reviewers appreciated the friendly staff and the opportunity to sample delicious strawberries.
• Hama 79: A scenic stop featuring walks and photo opportunities. The location offers views like waterfalls and charming bridges, perfect for leisurely exploration.
• Atami Plum Garden: A one-hour visit where you’ll enjoy stunning scenery and cultural displays, capturing photos of blooming plum trees.
• Back to the starting point: The day wraps up with a return to the original meeting location, giving you ample time to reflect on a day full of natural beauty and cultural richness.

The entire experience is designed to balance sightseeing, activity, and relaxation, with enough free time at each stop to truly enjoy the surroundings.

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Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable transport, often with a small group setting, which enhances the experience by allowing for more interaction with your guide and fellow travelers. The duration of around 10 hours makes it a full-day commitment, but one that’s well-paced with breaks and scenic stops.

Since the tour is operated by LION TRAVEL JAPAN—a provider with a solid 4.6-star rating—you can expect professional guides fluent in Japanese, English, and Chinese. They typically have extensive local knowledge, ensuring you get the most out of each location.

Pricing and Value

While the tour fee is not explicitly listed, considering the inclusions—multiple sites, guided commentary, fruit picking, cultural performances, footbaths, artisan markets, and transportation—the value appears quite reasonable. For travelers who want a comprehensive day of seasonal highlights without the hassle of planning each stop, this tour offers a good balance of cost and experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience works best for those wanting to see Japan’s early spring blooms without the complexity of traveling solo or arranging multiple tickets. It’s ideal for families, couples, and small groups eager to enjoy authentic scenery and participate in hands-on activities like fruit picking.

People interested in local culture, photography, and nature will find plenty to love here. Since the tour includes cultural performances and artisan markets, it also appeals to travelers curious about Japanese traditions beyond just sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Japan’s springtime charm in Shizuoka. With beautiful cherry blossoms, early-blooming plums, and fresh strawberries, it’s a great way to experience seasonal highlights in a single day. The inclusion of cultural elements like footbaths and artisan markets adds a layer of authenticity that enriches the journey.

While weather can influence the bloom timing, the staggered blooming periods and the variety of stops help ensure a memorable experience regardless. The value-packed itinerary, guided by knowledgeable professionals, makes this tour suitable for anyone wanting a convenient, immersive, and visually stunning day.

If you’re after a beautiful, fun, and authentic slice of Japan in spring, this tour ticks all the boxes—just remember to check the bloom forecast and dress comfortably for a day outdoors.

FAQ

When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms on this tour?
The cherry blossoms bloom from early February to early March, but the exact timing can vary depending on the weather. It’s best to check the forecast close to your trip.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, Atami Plum Garden, strawberry picking at Izu Fruit Park, cultural performances, footbaths, artisan markets, and transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s activities like strawberry picking and scenic stops make it family-friendly and engaging for children.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Japanese, English, and Chinese, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
The main tour fee covers the sites, activities, and transportation. Extra costs might include souvenirs or additional food or drinks not included.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves walking at each stop, including sightseeing, photo stops, and exploring the gardens, but it’s designed to be manageable for most guests.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, particularly for the cherry blossom viewing, which is heavily influenced by weather conditions. Flexibility and checking bloom forecasts are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here: