Cherry blossoms in Japan can be seen mostly from late March to April.

But since you have come all the way to Japan, wouldn't you like to see cherry blossoms in January and February as well?

Actually, there is a place where you can see cherry blossoms even in January and February.

It is Atami. It takes one hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen bullet train.

Although it is not as well known as Tokyo or Osaka, it is very famous among Japanese people and is a popular tourist destination visited by over 3 million people a year.

Why is it so popular? It is because of its mild climate, hot springs, and the sea and seafood.

In Atami, there is an early-blooming cherry tree called "Atami Cherry Blossom. This early-blooming cherry blossom can be seen from mid-January.

A cherry blossom festival is held every year from mid to late January.

Ume plum blossoms also bloom at this time of year, making it the first time in Japan (even if you do not go to Okinawa!) that you can see both plum blossoms and cherry blossoms together.

You can see both plum blossoms and cherry blossoms at the same time.

You can feel spring early and take a hot spring bath.

Atami is a very popular tourist destination for Japanese people who love hot springs.

As of January 18, the early plum trees in Atami Plum Garden are in bloom.

The red and white plum blossoms at the front entrance are very beautiful!