Matsukawa Lake (Okuno Dam): Plum Blossoms Update + Easy Walk Routes (Map Included)

✅ What you’ll get from this post

• A quick “what’s blooming now” note (based on my visit)
• Two simple walking options (short / a bit longer)
• Where to look first so you don’t wander around

🧾 Quick table

• Time: Short stroll / longer lakeside walk (choose on the day)
• Cost: Free to enjoy the area (transportation is separate)
• Difficulty: Easy-to-moderate (watch slopes and cold weather)
• Highlights: ① Plum trees ② A dam-and-lake viewpoint ③ Quiet, nature-filled scenery
• Watch-outs: Cold shade / slippery ground after rain / keep an eye on daylight

Map (open first)

Bloom update: plums (as of my visit)

I came to see how the plum blossoms were doing. It wasn’t full bloom yet, but many buds were already swelling and some trees were clearly flowering.

On that day, it felt like the area was about 1–2 weeks away from its peak (weather can shift this earlier or later).
If you mainly want photos, check which section has more open flowers first, then decide your route.

(Photo: plum blossoms — close-up)
(Photo: a wider view of the plum area / slope)

What this place is like (in one minute)

Matsukawa Lake is created by Okuno Dam, and the park area is surrounded by hills and forest. It’s an easy spot to slow down—especially when you combine flowers with a short walk.

There’s also a longer lakeside option if you feel like stretching your legs (see routes below).
(Photo: dam / lake view)

Best timing (general guide)

A local guide page introduces this rough seasonal flow around Okuno Dam / Matsukawa Lake:

• January: wintersweet (roubai)
• February: plum blossoms
• March: Kawazu-zakura (early cherry blossoms)
• April: Somei Yoshino (standard cherry blossoms)

Year-to-year timing changes, so use this as a guide and rely on recent updates when planning.
(Photo: signboard / park map, if you have it)

🧭 How to walk it (two simple options)

Option 1: Short and easy (flowers-first)

This is for “I just want plums + a nice view.”

• Parking area → head toward the plum spot first
• Take photos → move to an open viewpoint area
• Return the same way

Tip: If it’s windy or cold, do the photo part early and keep the viewpoint stop short.

Option 2: A bit longer (add more lakeside scenery)

If you have time, add extra lakeside walking after the plum area.

• Parking area → plum spot → viewpoint → continue along the lakeside path → return

This option works well when the ground is dry and you still have daylight.

⚠️ Notes that make the day easier

• If the ground is wet, don’t push into slippery slopes. Take photos from stable footing.
• Shade stays cold. Bring one layer you can put on/off.
• Decide a “turn-back time.” Photos and footing get harder late in the day.

Who this is for / not for

Good fit if you:

• Want a low-stress flower stop in Ito (not a crowded “must-see” spot)
• Prefer walking at your own pace with space around you

Maybe skip if you:

• Need “guaranteed full bloom” (flowers vary by weather)

Alternative idea: If plums are still early, plan for the cherry season next (Kawazu-zakura → Somei Yoshino).

FAQ

Q1. Is it worth going even if it’s not full bloom?
A. If you’re okay with “some trees open, others still in bud,” it’s still a pleasant walk—especially with the dam and lake scenery.

Q2. How long should I budget?
A. For photos + a short stroll, keep it simple. If you extend along the lakeside paths, allow extra time.

Q3. What should I bring in winter?
A. A warm layer for shade, comfortable shoes with grip, and something to keep hands warm if you’ll stop for photos.

References

• Ito Marine Town: “Okuno Dam (Matsukawa Lake)” (typical bloom months & basic info)
  https://ito-marinetown.co.jp/sitescene/izu/okunodam/
• Rakuyu (older related post): “Okuno Dam & Matsukawa Lake cycling / plum area notes”
  https://rakuyu.co/2020/01/26/post-4085/

Last updated: 2026-01-24 (edit if your visit date differs)