If you are looking for unique and beautiful place to visit in Japan, you may try Matsuda Cherry Blossom Festival. Here you can enjoy Cherry Blossom bit earlier around Tokyo. This festival happens every year on Mount Matsuda between February and early March in the town called Matsuda of Kanagawa prefecture.
This festival is not that much known from outside of Japan, therefore it may be a unique chance to enjoy the cherry blossom ahead of the season around Tokyo.
Every year, over 360 cherry trees at the festival shower their beauty over its visitors during full bloom at Nishihirabatake Park on Mount Matsuda. Not to mention that, you can enjoy the stunning view of Mount Fuji while enjoying the Cherry blossom at the same time.
Full bloom happens from mid February and lasted for about 2~3 weeks. This timing is earlier around Tokyo which makes it a best place to visit in Japan. You can watch the vast pink wood of Cherry tress from the below while passing by the mountain side or going to the festival.
How to visit this festival?
By car from Tokyo it takes about 2 hours to reach this place. By train it is about 1 and half hours. If you go by train, the cost is between 1000 yen and 1500 yen on way depending on time of the day. You can go Matsuda Cherry Festival from Tokyo and come back on the same day.
Matsuda Cherry Blossom Festival – Entry Fees and Address
Admission fee for entering the festival is 300 yen per adult. Entry is free for Children under 15 years. Parking fee is generally free but during peak time prepare 1000 yen just in case. The park opens at 9:00 and closes at 17:00.
Address: 2951 Matsuda Soryo, Matsuda town, Ashigarakami-gun, Kanagawa.
Website: https://trip.pref.kanagawa.jp/destination/matsuda-cherry-blossom-festival/441
There is a short walk to reach the actual event since the festival happens on the South side of Mount Matsuda.
When to visit Matsuda Cherry Blossom Festival?
Although the festival runs between February and Early March, perhaps between February 20 and April 10 is ideal for visiting the place due to the high possibility of full bloom.
Some Handy Tips
Some handy tips before before getting there are – Watch the weather before visiting the festival, get some ideas about the blooming condition. A sunny day with little to no clouds is ideal condition to get the best experience. If possible visit the festival between 11:00 and 14:00.
Bring water since there is a short walk to reach the mountain where the main festival held. Stay a bit careful since while on the spot because the place is at the mountain side. If you have children with you, keep an eye on them. In general it is safe to explore the area. There are wooden seats in one place at the festival where you can relax if there is less crowd.
Now that you know about this unique and wonderful place to visit in Japan, why not visit this pink paradise when you get a chance? On a sunny day the majestic view of Cherry Trees over the mountain will give you a wonderful experience. If you have travel itinerary around Tokyo during festival time, keep Matsuda Cherry Blossom Festival in your bucket list.
