Written by Aarohi Narain
Beautiful as they may be, it’s not all about the somei yoshino. Head to nearby Minami-Ashigara for a peek at stunning harumeki, an early blooming, pale pink variety of cherry blossom that’s worth the trip.
What happens?
Typically in early March each year, harumeki cherry blossoms in Minami-Ashigara City bloom, bringing an early taste of spring to Kanagawa, one of Tokyo’s neighboring prefectures. This locally registered variety is known for its soft pink petals, full blossoms, and sweet fragrance.
At the Haruki Path & Shiawase Path, over 150 cherry trees line a scenic 1.3 km riverside walkway.
Pro tip: Looking for an early cherry blossom escape in Kanagawa? Check out the cheery pink kawazu in Miura-kaigan and Matsuda.
Schedule 2025
The early cherry blossom festival goes from March 8 to 23, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How to get there
Take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Shin-Matsuda Station (about 1 hour and 15 minutes). From there, take a local bus headed for Sekimoto (関本) and get off at Ōkawa Bridge (大川橋), then walk 15 minutes to the Haruki & Shiawase Path. Alternatively, take a taxi (around 10 min).
The Daiyuzan Sightseeing Train Tour runs on March 15 and 16, with departures from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. The route covers key spots in Minami-Ashigara, including Ichinoseki Harane, Fukuzawa Park, Ashigara Roadside Station, and Tsujishita Ground, home to the Haruki Path & Shiawase Path cherry blossoms, before returning to Daiyuzan Station.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.