Hitachi Seaside Park
Endless Hills of Blue and Red Blooms
Hitachi Seaside Park was established in 1991 on 350 hectares of land formerly occupied by a U.S. military base. After the facility's return to Japan, the site was transformed into a public recreational space combining nature, culture, and leisure. The park's development focused on creating seasonal flower displays that would draw visitors year-round, taking advantage of the coastal location and rolling topography. The signature Miharashi no Oka (Miharashi Hill) was specifically designed with gentle slopes perfect for mass flower plantings visible from distance.
The park gained international fame in the 2010s when photographs of the blue nemophila fields went viral on social media, particularly among Asian tourists. The ethereal blue carpet of 4.5 million baby blue eyes flowers blooming simultaneously created images that seemed almost computer-generated. This social media phenomenon transformed the park from a regional attraction into one of Japan's most photographed destinations. The autumn kochia (burning bush) similarly became Instagram-famous, with the same hills turning vivid red in October.
Today, Hitachi Seaside Park attracts over 2 million annual visitors, with peak crowds during nemophila season (late April-May) and kochia season (October). Beyond flowers, the park features cycling paths, amusement rides, BMX course, athletic facilities, and event spaces. The park has become a case study in transforming former military land into celebrated public space, and in leveraging seasonal natural phenomena for tourism. The flower hills represent modern Japan's appreciation for seasonal beauty (shiki no aware) expressed through contemporary landscape design and social media aesthetics.
Key Highlights
- 4.5 million blue nemophila flowers creating sky-blue hills (April-May)
- 32,000 kochia bushes turning brilliant red in autumn (October)
- 350-hectare park with diverse gardens and recreational facilities
- 11-kilometer cycling course through flower fields
- Amusement park area with Ferris wheel and observation tower
- Year-round seasonal blooms: tulips, daffodils, roses, cosmos
Access Information
Location
605-4 Onuma-cho, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki 312-0012, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Ajigaura Station (Hitachinaka Seaside Railway) - 20 min by bus or 40 min walk
- • Katsuta Station (JR Joban Line) - 25 min by bus
Opening Hours
Hours vary by season: March-October: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM; Extended summer hours to 6:00 PM; November-February: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM; Closed most Mondays (except holidays)
Admission Fee
Adults (15-64): ¥450; Seniors (65+): ¥210; Children under 15: Free; Annual pass: ¥4,500; Higher fees during peak seasons possible
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinagawa/Tokyo)
Take JR Joban Line Limited Express 'Hitachi' or 'Tokiwa' to Katsuta Station (75-85 minutes, ¥3,410), then Ibaraki Kotsu bus bound for Seaside Park (15-20 minutes, ¥400, hourly) to main west entrance. Total journey approximately 2 hours.
120 minutes
From Katsuta Station
Take Ibaraki Kotsu bus from East Exit bound for Hitachinaka Seaside Railway to Kaihin Koen (Seaside Park West Entrance) stop (15 minutes, ¥400). Buses run every 30-60 minutes, more frequently during peak flower seasons. Or take Hitachinaka Seaside Railway to Ajigaura, then walk or bus.
20 minutes
From Tokyo by Car
Take Joban Expressway north to Hitachinaka IC (75 minutes, ¥3,000 tolls), then 10 minutes to park. Parking available (¥510). Driving offers flexibility but parking fills quickly during peak seasons - arrive before 9 AM.
90 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Nemophila Blue Hill Magic
Peak nemophila bloom typically occurs late April to mid-May. Miharashi Hill transforms into an ethereal blue carpet of 4.5 million baby blue eyes flowers. Best photo time: early morning (9-10 AM) when soft light enhances blue tones and crowds are manageable. Midday harsh sun washes out colors. The blue flowers merge with blue sky on clear days creating surreal landscape. Check bloom forecast online before visiting - peak lasts only 2-3 weeks. Weekdays significantly less crowded than weekends which can see 20,000+ visitors.
Photography Tips
Nemophila season: Shoot from hill base looking up to capture blue flowers against sky. Wide-angle lenses capture the endless field effect. People silhouettes add scale. Morning or late afternoon offers best light. Kochia season: The round red bushes photograph beautifully backlit. Get low angles for dramatic compositions. The pathway through kochia creates leading lines. Throughout year: The Ferris wheel provides aerial photography perspectives (¥600 ride). Bring telephoto lens for flower closeups. The park's scale requires walking to find best angles.
Cycling the 11km Course
The 11-kilometer cycling course loops through the park passing flower fields, forests, and coastal areas. Bike rental available (¥400 for 3 hours, ¥250 for additional hours; tandem and electric bikes cost more). The flat terrain is easy for all ages. Cycling allows covering much more ground than walking - the park is massive (350 hectares). However, during peak nemophila/kochia seasons, bikes are restricted from the hill area due to crowds. Rentals available at West Entry and South Entry.
Year-Round Seasonal Flowers
Beyond nemophila and kochia, enjoy: early spring (March-April) - daffodils, tulips; summer (July-August) - zinnias, sunflowers; autumn (September-October) - cosmos (2 million flowers); winter (December-January) - ice tulips in glass houses. The park uses strategic plantings to create color year-round. Each season has distinct character though none match the fame of nemophila blue and kochia red. Off-season visits offer peaceful experiences at the same low admission price.
Family Attractions
The Pleasure Garden amusement area features 25+ rides including Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and kiddie rides (¥300-600 per ride or day pass ¥3,800). Large playground areas with trampolines and athletic equipment. BBQ areas for family picnics (reservation required). The vast open spaces let kids run freely. Stroller rentals available. The park is extremely family-friendly with nursing rooms and family restrooms throughout. Allow full day to enjoy both flowers and attractions.
Dining Options
Multiple restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the park serve light meals, snacks, and drinks. Options include Japanese curry, pasta, burgers, and seasonal specialties. The Ocean View restaurant offers sea views while dining. Food courts near main areas provide quick meals (¥800-1,500). Bring picnic blankets - the park encourages picnicking in designated areas. Lawns perfect for spreading out with homemade lunch. Vending machines throughout. Alcohol permitted in designated BBQ areas only.
Best Visiting Strategy
Peak seasons (nemophila late April-May, kochia mid-October) require arriving at opening time (9:30 AM) or visiting weekdays to avoid overwhelming crowds. Purchase advance tickets online to skip entrance lines. Wear comfortable walking shoes - the park requires significant walking. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as shade is limited on hills. Spring and autumn can be windy near coast - bring light jacket. Off-season visits offer 90% less crowds, minimal compromise on flowers, and same cheap admission. Allow 3-4 hours minimum, full day ideal.
Planning Your Visit
The park's massive size (350 hectares) means you can't see everything in one visit - prioritize based on interests. Must-sees: Miharashi Hill (nemophila/kochia depending on season), cycling course if weather permits, and Ferris wheel for aerial views. Download the park map or use smartphone app to navigate. Multiple entrances serve different areas - West Entrance most convenient for Miharashi Hill. Check bloom forecasts and weather before traveling from Tokyo. The park makes an excellent day trip from Tokyo, or combine with other Ibaraki attractions like Mount Tsukuba.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Hitachi Seaside Park?
Late April to mid-May for baby blue eyes (nemophila), and early to mid-October for red kochia bushes are the most spectacular times. Spring also features tulips and daffodils, while summer offers rock gardens and sunflowers. Autumn brings cosmos flowers. Each season has unique floral displays, but spring nemophila is the park's signature attraction.
How long should I spend at Hitachi Seaside Park?
Plan for 3-4 hours minimum to explore the main gardens and Miharashi Hill. Full-day visits (6-8 hours) are ideal if you want to enjoy cycling, the amusement park, or see all gardens. During peak bloom seasons, allow extra time for photography and crowds. The park is 350 hectares, so there's plenty to see.
Is Hitachi Seaside Park crowded during nemophila season?
Yes, extremely crowded in late April and Golden Week (late April-early May). Weekends can have hour-long waits just to enter. Visit on weekdays, arrive right at opening (9:30 AM), or late afternoon for smaller crowds. Early mornings offer the best light for photography and fewer people on Miharashi Hill.
How much does admission to Hitachi Seaside Park cost?
Adults pay 450 yen, seniors 65+ pay 210 yen, and children under 15 are free. Prices may increase to 700 yen during peak seasons like nemophila and kochia. Season passes are available for 4,500 yen. The nearby amusement park Pleasure Garden requires separate tickets for rides.
Can I rent bicycles at the park?
Yes, bicycle rentals are available at three locations for 400 yen per 3 hours (regular bike) or 700 yen (electric-assist). The park has 11km of cycling paths connecting all major areas. Cycling is the best way to see the entire park efficiently. Tandem bikes and children's bikes are also available. Return by park closing time.
What are the baby blue eyes (nemophila) flowers?
Nemophila are small sky-blue flowers with white centers that bloom in late April to mid-May. About 5.3 million nemophila cover Miharashi Hill, creating a stunning blue carpet effect against the blue sky. The flowers are native to California and have become Hitachi's most famous seasonal attraction, drawing visitors from across Japan.
What is the best time of day to see the nemophila?
Early morning (9:30-11:00 AM) right when the park opens offers fewer crowds, fresh flowers, and ideal photography lighting. Late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM) provides beautiful golden hour light but flowers may look tired. Sunny days make the blue colors most vibrant. Avoid midday when crowds peak and harsh sunlight washes out colors.
Are the red kochia bushes worth visiting?
Absolutely! In early to mid-October, 32,000 kochia bushes on Miharashi Hill turn brilliant red, creating a stunning autumn landscape. The transformation from green to red happens over about two weeks. This is less crowded than nemophila season. Combine with cosmos flowers that bloom simultaneously for maximum color.
Is the park suitable for young children?
Yes, very family-friendly! The Pleasure Garden amusement area has over 25 rides for various ages. Large playground areas, open lawns for playing, and gentle cycling paths make it ideal for families. Bring a picnic blanket. Stroller rentals available for 300 yen. Children under 15 enter free, making it budget-friendly.
Are there restaurants and food options in the park?
Yes, multiple restaurants and cafes serve Japanese and Western food, including seasonal specials. Budget 800-1,500 yen per meal. Food stalls offer snacks and drinks throughout the park. You can also bring your own food and picnic on designated lawns. Vending machines are plentiful. The seaside restaurant offers ocean views.
How do I get to Hitachi Seaside Park from Tokyo?
Take the JR Joban Limited Express from Tokyo or Ueno Station to Katsuta Station (70-85 minutes). From Katsuta Station, take a bus bound for Hitachi Seaside Park (15-20 minutes, 400 yen). During peak seasons, direct buses may run from Tokyo. Total journey is about 2 hours. The park is not easily accessible by train alone.
Is the park wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, mostly accessible with paved paths throughout the main areas. Miharashi Hill has a gradual slope that wheelchairs can manage, though it may be tiring. Wheelchair and stroller rentals available at the entrance for 500 and 300 yen respectively. Accessible restrooms are located throughout. Some garden areas have gravel paths.
Can I bring pets to Hitachi Seaside Park?
Yes, leashed pets are allowed in outdoor areas except for Miharashi Hill during peak flower seasons (nemophila and kochia) and some gardens. Pets must be kept in carriers or strollers in restricted areas. Clean up after your pet. Service animals are permitted everywhere. Check current pet policies before visiting.
Are there lockers for luggage storage?
Yes, coin lockers are available at the main entrance area in various sizes (300-600 yen). Lockers may fill up quickly during peak seasons, so arrive early if you need storage. The park is about 2 hours from Tokyo, so many day-trippers use these facilities.
What should I wear to Hitachi Seaside Park?
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for several hours of walking on paved and some gravel paths. Bring layers as coastal winds can be cool even on warm days. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is essential as much of the park is exposed. Avoid high heels. For cycling, wear pants rather than long skirts.
Can I take professional photos or have a photoshoot?
Personal photography is welcome and encouraged. Professional photoshoots for commercial purposes or with large equipment require advance permission from park management. Wedding photography is popular during flower seasons but requires booking. Tripods are allowed but be considerate of other visitors during crowded periods. Drones are prohibited.
What other flowers bloom besides nemophila and kochia?
The park has year-round blooms: 260,000 daffodils in April, 170 varieties of tulips in April-May, 600,000 cosmos in September-October, sunflowers in late August, and ice plant gardens. Winter features pine trees and pampas grass. The annual flowering schedule ensures something is always in bloom across the seasons.
Is there an ocean view at the park?
Yes! The park is located along the Pacific coast. Miharashi Hill offers panoramic ocean views combined with flower fields - especially stunning with nemophila creating a seamless blue horizon. Some areas have direct beach access. The combination of flowers and ocean makes this park unique among Japanese gardens. Clear days offer the best visibility.
Should I visit on a weekday or weekend?
Weekdays are strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons (late April-early May, October). Weekend crowds can be overwhelming with long lines for parking, entry, and popular spots. Weekday visits offer better photography opportunities, easier cycling, and more relaxed exploration. If weekends are your only option, arrive at opening time.
Can I combine Hitachi Seaside Park with other attractions?
Yes, nearby attractions include Nakaminato Fish Market (15 minutes by bus) for fresh seafood, Oarai coast and shrines (20 minutes), and Mito's Kairaku-en Garden (40 minutes), one of Japan's three great gardens famous for plum blossoms. Most visitors dedicate a full day to the park itself given the 2-hour journey from Tokyo.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Fukuroda Falls
One of Japan's three most beautiful waterfalls, cascading 120 meters in four distinct tiers through a forested gorge, with observation decks offering dramatic seasonal views.
Mount Tsukuba
A sacred twin-peaked mountain offering cable car and ropeway access to stunning Kanto Plain views, ancient shrines, hiking trails, and beautiful seasonal foliage accessible from Tokyo.
Tsukuba Space Center Area
JAXA's primary research facility offering tours of Japan's space program, featuring rocket exhibitions, astronaut training facilities, and interactive space science exhibits.