Shizuoka and Izu City Cherry Blossom Private 2 Days Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Japan’s cherry blossom season away from the crowds, this Shizuoka and Izu City Cherry Blossom Private 2 Days Tour might be just what you need. Designed for small groups—up to three people—it offers a personalized way to see some of the most photogenic spots in the region, all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, examining its features reveals it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an intimate, flexible, and scenic escape into Japan’s floral season.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines important cultural sites with breathtaking natural beauty, especially during cherry blossom season. The inclusion of Kunozan Toshogu Shrine—a historic site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu—and Miho no Matsubara, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, ensures a mix of history and postcard-perfect landscapes.

Plus, the opportunity to visit Kawazu’s famed early-blooming cherry blossoms during the festival is a highlight for anyone wanting to see Japan’s iconic sakura in full bloom.

One potential consideration is the tour’s reliance on good weather. While the itinerary is packed with scenic and cultural stops, poor weather could impact some views, especially at outdoor spots like Miho no Matsubara.

Also, at $1,620 for up to three people, the price reflects a private, tailored experience rather than a group tour, which may be a bit steep for budget travelers. Still, for those craving a personalized, hassle-free cherry blossom experience, this tour offers strong value.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a balance of cultural insight and natural beauty, prefer private guides, and want to see Shizuoka’s key cherry blossom sites without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re after authentic sights, stunning vistas, and the comfort of private transportation, this tour could be a memorable addition to your Japan trip.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for up to three travelers
• Visits to iconic cherry blossom spots with free admission
• Includes transportation, fuel, parking, and tolls—no hidden costs
• Flexible route and timing, dependent on blossom forecasts and weather
• A mix of cultural sites and natural scenery, including UNESCO and World Heritage sites
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort, intimacy, and local insights

Day 1: Cultural Heritage and Mount Fuji Views

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is the first stop, a shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. It’s not just historically significant but also visually stunning in spring. The cherry blossoms bloom around the shrine, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. We loved the way the shrine’s architecture blends with the natural surroundings, giving you a real sense of Japanese history amid floral beauty. Expect about three hours here—plenty of time to wander the grounds, enjoy the views, and soak up the atmosphere.

Next, the tour brings you to Miho no Matsubara, a scenic pine grove that ranks among Japan’s most famous vistas—especially during cherry blossom season. This spot offers sweeping views of Mount Fuji, which, in spring, combines with the cherry trees to craft some of the most iconic Japan images. The tranquility and natural beauty here are perfect for a leisurely stroll along the coast, with about two hours allocated. We’ve read travelers highlight how the combination of blossoms and Fuji’s silhouette makes for unforgettable photos.

Day 2: Izu’s Hot Springs and Kawazu’s Famous Blooms

The second day begins with a visit to Shuzenji Temple, a peaceful retreat in Izu. The temple’s ancient buildings sit amid blossoming cherry trees, providing a harmonious blend of spiritual calm and floral splendor. Expect roughly three hours here, giving you time to walk around the temple, explore the surrounding hot spring town, and enjoy the scenic views.

The highlight of day two is visiting Kawazu, home to one of Japan’s most renowned cherry blossom festivals. The Kawazu Sakura trees bloom early, sometimes as early as February, and stay vibrant for several weeks. Travelers note the bright colors and extended flowering period make this a must-see. During the festival, you’ll find many spots where the blossoms seem to spill over the landscape, creating a dazzling display. We’ve seen reviews praising the delicious local food and the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect end to the trip. The allocated three hours should give you ample time to enjoy the blooms, take photos, and perhaps sample some regional sweets or snacks.

This tour is designed with convenience in mind. The air-conditioned private vehicle ensures comfort, especially during spring when the weather can be variable. The tour covers fuel, parking, and tolls, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs—just bring your camera and a sense of adventure.

While meals and attraction tickets are not included, this allows flexibility for you to choose local restaurants or cafes at your own pace. You might find plenty of tempting options near the cherry blossom spots, from traditional sushi to sweet treats like sakura mochi.

The tour’s confirmation is immediate, and it’s suitable for most travelers, provided the weather cooperates. Keep in mind the cancellation policy is flexible up to six days in advance, offering peace of mind if plans change.

At $1,620 for a private tour, the per-person cost for a trio is reasonable considering the personalized service, private vehicle, and exclusive access to sought-after sites. This isn’t a cheap day trip, but it’s a good value if you value comfort, customization, and avoiding the hassle of public transportation or self-driving. The itinerary’s focus on top cherry blossom spots ensures that your time and money are spent on truly picture-worthy locations.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to see how Japan celebrates sakura—from the historical Kunozan Toshogu Shrine to the long-flowering Kawazu Cherry Trees. The combination of cultural heritage sites and natural landscapes makes this a well-rounded experience, especially during blossom season when the scenery is at its most photogenic.

We noted that the stops are well-spaced, allowing for leisurely exploration rather than rushed visits. The flexibility to discuss the route with your driver means you can prioritize spots you’re most excited about. Plus, with free admission to all sites, your main expenses are the tour fee, food, and personal souvenirs.

This experience is best suited for couples, friends, or small families who want a customized, intimate tour without the stress of navigation. It’s ideal if you enjoy history, nature, and photography, and prefer to avoid large tour groups. If cherry blossom viewing is high on your list and you want to combine it with cultural visits, this tour offers a well-balanced itinerary.

However, if you’re seeking a budget-friendly option or are less mobile, you might prefer more self-guided or group-based options. Also, keep in mind that the experience hinges on good weather, as outdoor scenic views are a major feature.

For travelers eager to enjoy Japan’s cherry blossoms in a comfortable, flexible, and culturally rich setting, this private tour offers significant value. It delivers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty with historical significance, all within a manageable two days. The private nature means you can enjoy the sites at your own pace, and the focus on iconic spots ensures that your photographs and memories will be truly special.

While the price may seem high, the inclusion of private transport, expert guidance, and access to prime locations justifies the cost for those seeking a seamless and personalized experience. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want the comfort of being driven between sites, avoiding public transit or complicated planning.

In short, if you’re after a stress-free way to see Japan’s famous cherry blossoms, coupled with authentic cultural sights, this tour stands out as a thoughtfully designed option worth considering.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned vehicle use, with fuel, parking, and tolls covered in the price.

Are attraction tickets included? No, all the sites listed are free to enter; you only pay for optional meals or souvenirs.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to six days before the experience for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and some extra cash for food or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s primarily designed for small groups of adults, but families with children comfortable with walking and outdoor activities might enjoy it too.

How flexible is the itinerary? The route can be discussed with your driver based on bloom forecasts and weather, allowing some customization.

What if the weather is poor? The tour requires good weather for outdoor sites; if canceled due to foul weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long are the stops? Expect to spend about 3 hours at Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, 2 hours at Miho no Matsubara, 3 hours at Shuzenji Temple, and 3 hours at Kawazu.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The sites are outdoor and may involve walking on uneven terrain, so consider your mobility needs before booking.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of private transportation, access to prime cherry blossom spots, and the chance for a personalized experience in a scenic part of Japan.

This private 2-day tour presents a beautifully curated way to see some of Japan’s most iconic cherry blossom locations, blending natural vistas with meaningful cultural sites. Designed for those who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenery, it promises a memorable spring adventure in Japan.