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Summer

Exploring Sunflower Fields in Japan

In Japan, vast fields of vibrant sunflowers bloom from the end of July to August. Explore sunflower landscapes at Nogi Town, Yama no Gakkou, Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park, and Suhara Himawari no Sato.

Exploring Sunflower Fields in Japan
Photo by Sousuke48 on PhotoAC

Like cherry blossoms (sakura) are to spring, sunflowers (himawari) are to summer. With the distinct seasons in Japan, you can enjoy the changing flora and fauna depending on the time you visit. The end of July to August is prime time to find a garden full of sunflowers, their bright yellow faces looking up toward the sun. You may have heard songs that evoke this association of sunflowers with the sun and summer. For example, Himawari no Yakusoku by Hata Motohiro, Himawari by Yonezu Kenshi, or Himawari by Kiroro.

Sunflower gardens are typically vast and contain thousands of flowers, often far from public transportation stops. Given the summer heat, make sure you plan your route well in advance.

Some examples with further details below:

  • Nogi Town in Tochigi
  • Yama no Gakkou in Aomori
  • Himawari Mura in Ishikawa
  • Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park in Yamanashi
  • Suhara Himawari no Sato in Gifu

Nogi Town | Tochighi

A vast sunflower field that covers around 43,000 square meters, boasting over 300,000 sunflowers. The "Sunflower Maze" is a popular attraction, standing at over 2 meters tall. Every year, the town hosts a festival during the blooming season featuring singers, fireworks, and a product exhibition. The 2023 festival is scheduled for July 29-30.

  • Best time to visit (estimate): End of July to the beginning of August
  • Getting there: 25 min walk or 4 min taxi from JR Nogi Station
    (There's a free shuttle from the station during the festival dates)

Yama no Gakkou | Aomori

Community members transformed a cherished primary and secondary school that had to shut down because of the decreasing population. They planted over 2 million sunflowers behind the school, aiming to create a space that revitalizes both locals and visitors. In addition to the sunflower fields, the venue holds diverse activities and classes for people to experience the country life.

Himawari Mura｜Ishikawa

The "Sunflower Village" or "Himawari Mura" features a sunflower field with over 350,000 flowers planted with the assistance of local children. You can oversee the entire area from a nearby observation deck.

Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park｜Yamanashi

A park at an altitude of 1,000 meters is home to various seasonal flowers. Enjoy 130,000 sunflowers and colorful zinnia flowers in August with Mt. Fuji in the background.

  • Best time to visit (estimate): Mid-to-late August
  • Getting there: 30-min bus ride on the Fujikko bus departing Mt.Fuji Station
  • Website: http://www.hananomiyakokouen.jp/

Suhara Himawari no Sato｜Gifu

Another park with a delightful variety of seasonal flowers. In the summer, visit to see not only yellow sunflowers but also red, orange, and white. Many photogenic objects are in the park, such as a "happiness-bound train" and retro post boxes.

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