Izukogen cherry trees — Attraction in Ito

The Izukogen Cherry Tree Tunnel (伊豆高原 桜並木) is a picturesque nature escape ideal for spring travelers. With a blossom-lined road stretching over a kilometer, charming roadside shops, and ample photo opportunities, it's a tranquil experience—best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Just be aware of occasional inconsiderate tourists. (4/5)

Full Review Izukogen Cherry Tree Tunnel: A Seasonal Bloom Worth the Journey Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Tucked away in the quieter, more tranquil parts of the Izu Peninsula, Izukogen's Sakura Namiki (Cherry Tree Tunnel) offers a springtime experience that’s as photogenic as it is peaceful—well, most of the time. Come cherry blossom season, this stretch of road transforms into a delicate “tunnel” of sakura, where pastel petals arch above you and frame the scene like a watercolor painting come to life.

Running just over a kilometer, the road itself is modest but incredibly picturesque. Whether you’re strolling, driving slowly, or stopping to snap a photo beneath the canopy of blossoms, there’s no shortage of moments worth capturing. In fact, photo ops are the name of the game here. The contrast between the soft sakura and the occasional vintage architecture, small cafés, or roadside vendors makes for an immersive seasonal journey. Small hidden shops pop up along the way, adding pockets of discovery to the experience—selling local sweets, tea, or handmade crafts that are perfect for the slow traveler.

That said, while nature has its charm firmly in place, the same can’t always be said for every visitor. A few poorly mannered tourists decided to stop in the middle of the road or casually wander into traffic for that “perfect shot,” creating mild disruptions. Still, the setting is relaxed enough that these minor hiccups don’t detract too heavily from the ambiance.

Unlike more centralized tourist attractions, Izukogen doesn’t immediately link you to other popular sights—so plan your trip accordingly. It’s a destination that demands intention, but rewards you with serenity and beauty if you’re willing to make the trek.

For lovers of springtime travel, cherry blossoms, or nature photography, Izukogen Cherry Tree Tunnel is a seasonal gem. It's not built for spectacle or thrill-seeking—it’s meant for slowing down, breathing in the fresh air, and letting yourself fall into the rhythm of a town that moves to the gentle sway of falling petals. A quiet joy, and one I’m glad I took the time...

Izu Kogen Hanami Hill (ENG/+日本語) - 2.7km/8% - Izu Kogen/Shizuoka Prefecture - Max.16%/Elev.304m 伊豆高原花見ヒル-2.7km / 8％-伊豆高原/静岡県-最大16％/標高304m

The Izu Kogen "Hanami Hill" climb is named after the famous and popular seasonal cherry blossoms that line the hill during late April/early May (picture 2). (Some varieties bloom early - picture 1 is from last week - but most of the hill climb will bloom later.) The hill is very straight for the first 1.75km (picture 3) and then the road narrows and makes a few turns before the steep final section at 16% (picture 4). If you would like to climb the hill during the peak cherry blossom season, I strongly recommend riding before 8am as the road can get crowded and there is almost no bike lane. I generally use this route for descending on my return to Izu Kogen from western climbs and the view of Sagami Bay in the afternoon is quite nice. (picture 5). There are multiple intersections and many restaurants along the route so please use caution on the descent. My favorite Italian restaurant in Japan is located just west of the hill called Trattoria Pizzeria Pulcino. A recommended climb during cherry blossom season.

伊豆高原の「はなみヒルクライム」は、4月下旬から5月上旬にかけて丘に並ぶ有名で人気のある季節の桜にちなんで名付けられました（写真2）。（一部の品種は早く咲きます-写真1は先週のものです-しかし、丘の登りのほとんどは後で咲きます。）丘は最初の1.75kmの間は非常にまっすぐで（写真3）、その後道路は曲がりくねった狭くなり、16％の急な最終セクションあります。（写真4）。桜のピークシーズンに丘を登りたい場合は、道路が混雑する可能性があり、自転車専用車線がほとんどないため、午前8時前に乗ることを強くお勧めします。西登りから伊豆高原に戻る際は、普段このルートを使って下りますが、午後の相模湾の眺めはとてもいいです。 （写真5）ルート沿いには複数の交差点やカフェ・レストランがたくさんありますので、下りにはご注意ください。日本で私のお気に入りのイタリアンレストランは、TRATTORIA...

As of today 12 March, there are already a few trees in full bloom close to the station. There are plenty more that are yet to bloom but seemed to be only a matter of days. Beautiful walk to take pictures and enjoy the...