As we all know, springtime in Japan is synonymous with breathtaking beauty, and one of the most popular flowers to see during this season is the shibazakura, or moss phlox. These vibrant flowers bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white, covering the ground in a stunning carpet of color.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan during the spring, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to see these gorgeous flowers in bloom. In this article, I’ll be sharing some of the best places to see shibazakura, as well as some tips for making the most of your visit.
Best Places to See Shibazakura
Fuji Shibazakura Festival
Location: Yamanashi
Blooming Dates: Mid-April to late May
Just imagine it: a sprawling carpet of pink blossoms with the iconic Mount Fuji as its backdrop. That’s the Fuji Shibazakura Festival for you! Boasting over 500,000 shibazakura plants, it’s hands-down one of the best places to see shibazakura in Japan. You can read more about the Fuji Shibazakura Festival here or book the best tours from Tokyo here.
Higashimoto Shibazakura Park
Location: Hokkaido
Blooming Dates: Early May to early June
Higashimoto Shibazakura Park in Hokkaido’s Ozora Town is a renowned 10-hectare shibazakura viewing spot that comes alive with vibrant floral carpets during the blooming season. In addition to the stunning scenery, the park features exciting attractions such as a go-kart track, fishing ground, camping quarters, and relaxing hot spring and foot baths. Accessible by stairs or mini buses, this must-visit destination in Hokkaido promises an unforgettable shibazakura experience.
Takinoue Park
Location: Hokkaido
Blooming Dates: Early May to early June
Takinoue Park in Hokkaido’s Monbetsu District is a popular shibazakura destination, featuring a vast 100,000 square meters of vibrant pink flowers that create a stunning panorama. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery from the “Bell of Happiness” viewpoint atop the hill. During the Shibazakura Festival, be sure to treat yourself to the famous shibazakura soft-serve ice cream, which can only be found at this location.
Hitsujiyama Park
Location: Saitama
Blooming Dates: Mid-April to early May
Nestled at the base of Mount Buko, Hitsujiyama Park is a delightful shibazakura paradise. With over 400,000 plants spread across the hills, you’ll be swept off your feet by the stunning tapestry of colors. There’s also a small farm near the shibazakura location where you can see sheep and horses.
Tokyo German Village
Location: Chiba
Blooming Dates: Early to late April
A German-themed leisure park located in Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo German Village has around 250,000 shibazakura flowers, making it one of the largest moss phlox gardens in the Kanto region. Visitors can also enjoy various attractions, including zoos and playgrounds, making it a perfect destination for those seeking more than just flower viewing.
Tobu Treasure Garden
Location: Gunma
Blooming Dates: Early to late April
Tobu Treasure Garden, located in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, is a beautiful 80,000-square-meter garden boasting nearly one million flowers from 4,000 different varieties. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of flowers, and if you time your visit right you can see shibazakura blooming alongside cherry blossoms or nemophila (baby blue eyes). It’s also a walking distance from Morinji, a curious temple with plenty of tanuki statues.
Chausuyama Highlands
Location: Aichi
Blooming Dates: Early May to early June
Situated along the boundary of Aichi and Nagano Prefectures, Chausuyama Highlands is a breathtaking location that celebrates the blooming of shibazakura from May to early June. Covering 22,000 square meters, the hillside is adorned with over 400,000 pink moss flowers in various shades of pink, white, and purple. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant flower fields by walking through them or by taking a ski lift ride overhead. You can also expect special events, food stalls, and nighttime illuminations during festival dates.
Hana no Jutan
Location: Hyogo
Blooming Dates: Late April to early May
Hana no Jutan is a popular moss phlox destination in Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture, bustling with visitors every year during its blooming period from mid-April to early May. The park is home to about 100 million moss phlox, creating a stunning “flower carpet” that covers the entire hillside. The picturesque setting and sweet scent make it a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic, with visitors allowed to bring pets, food, and drinks, making it an ideal location for couples and families alike.
Hanago OKADA
Location: Kyoto
Blooming Dates: Mid to late April
Hanago OKADA is a floral wonderland where visitors can enjoy a variety of flowers blooming from April to June. The landscape features around 115,000 moss phlox. In addition to the flowers, the park also offers a seasonal strawberry sales corner, where they sell freshly picked strawberries from their own farm and original strawberry sweets.
Sekoragen Farm
Location: Hiroshima
Blooming Dates: April to mid-May
A renowned moss phlox spot in Western Japan, Sekoragen Farm boasts picture-perfect spots throughout its vast area. The site features not only moss phlox, but also a diverse array of flowers, including rapeseed blossoms, nemophila, and tulips, all in one location. The highlight of the park is the floral artwork created by around 800,000 plants of four types of moss phlox, showcasing unique designs such as hearts and smiling faces.
Expert Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure
- Check live cameras and/or the latest photos on Google Maps to determine the current blooming states of flowers.
- Avoid visiting during Golden Week, as attractions tend to be crowded.
- Consider joining a tour to maximize your sightseeing experience on one-day trips.
- Research the ideal photo spots at each location beforehand.
- Use location tags or hashtags on Instagram for shot references and inspiration.
FAQ
What is shibazakura?
Shibazakura is a type of perennial plant that blooms in vibrant shades of pink, purple, and white, creating stunning floral carpets in Japan during the spring months. The Japanese name literally means “lawn cherry.”
Is there an English name for shibazakura?
Yes, shibazakura is also known as moss phlox, creeping phlox, and pink moss.
What does shibazakura mean in the language of flowers?
In English, moss phlox symbolizes harmony, unity, agreement, and the coming together of people. In Japanese, shibazakura symbolizes the same things with the addition of “a timid heart.”
When is the best time to see shibazakura in Japan?
It varies according to location, but the season typically stretches from April to June.
Are there any entrance fees for shibazakura festivals?
Some shibazakura festivals and parks may charge an entrance fee, while others are free. It’s best to check the specific details for each location before planning your trip.
A Seasonal Spectacle
Japan’s shibazakura spectacle is truly a sight to behold. With this guide to the best places to see shibazakura in Japan and expert tips for your adventure, you’ll be well-prepared to witness the mesmerizing beauty of these vividly bright floral carpets. So pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a colorful journey through Japan’s breathtaking shibazakura landscapes.
