Hitsujiyama Park (Shibazakura)
Pink Flower Carpets on Hillside Canvas
Hitsujiyama Park takes its name from the historical sheep farming that occurred in this area during the Meiji period (1868-1912) as part of Japan's modernization efforts. The park occupies hillsides overlooking Chichibu city in western Saitama Prefecture, surrounded by mountains that create a natural amphitheater. While sheep farming ended long ago, the park retained its name and developed as a public recreational space in the post-war period, with cherry blossoms and seasonal flowers attracting local visitors.
The transformation into a major tourist destination began in 2000 when the city began planting shibazakura (moss phlox, ground-covering flowering plants) on a hillside slope. What started as a modest 6,000 square meter planting expanded dramatically over the following decade. By 2010, the Shibazakura no Oka (Moss Phlox Hill) covered 17,600 square meters with over 400,000 plants in nine varieties creating elaborate patterns of pink, magenta, white, and purple. The strategic hillside planting allowed optimal viewing from both below and eye-level walking paths, with distant mountain vistas providing dramatic backdrop.
Today, the annual Chichibu Shibazakura Festival (late April-early May) attracts over 300,000 visitors during the three-week bloom period, making it one of the Tokyo area's most popular spring flower events. The park has become internationally recognized through social media, with images of the flower-covered hillsides going viral. Beyond shibazakura season, the park offers cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, and autumn foliage, though the spring moss phlox display remains the primary draw. The park demonstrates how strategic horticultural planning and social media visibility can transform a regional park into a must-visit destination.
Key Highlights
- 400,000 shibazakura plants covering 17,600 square meter hillside
- Nine varieties creating pink, white, and purple patterns
- Mountain backdrop providing dramatic landscape views
- Annual Shibazakura Festival (late April-early May)
- Located in scenic Chichibu mountain region
- Additional seasonal attractions: cherry blossoms, sheep (April-May)
Access Information
Location
6360 Omiya, Chichibu, Saitama 368-0023, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Seibu-Chichibu Station (Seibu Chichibu Line) - 20 min walk or shuttle bus
- • Chichibu Station (Chichibu Railway) - 25 min walk
Opening Hours
Park grounds: Open 24/7 year-round; Shibazakura Festival period: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with admission control); Off-season: Free access anytime
Admission Fee
Shibazakura Festival period only: Adults ¥300; Elementary/Junior high: ¥150; Off-season: Free
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Ikebukuro)
Take Seibu Ikebukuro Line Limited Express 'Laview' or 'Red Arrow' directly to Seibu-Chichibu Station (78 minutes, ¥1,500 express surcharge + ¥780 base fare). From station, walk 20 minutes or take shuttle bus during festival (¥200, 5 minutes, frequent service). Most convenient direct Tokyo access.
90 minutes
From Seibu-Chichibu Station
Walk 20 minutes from station through town (mostly flat, then uphill final approach). During Shibazakura Festival (late April-early May), free or low-cost shuttle buses run every 10-15 minutes. Walking is pleasant and allows exploring Chichibu town.
20 minutes
From Tokyo by Car
Take Kanetsu Expressway to Hanazono IC (70 minutes), then Route 140 to Chichibu (30 minutes). Parking available during festival (¥500) but very limited - public transit strongly recommended during peak bloom.
90 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Peak Bloom Timing
Shibazakura typically peak from late April through early May (Golden Week), with exact timing varying yearly by temperature. The festival runs 3-4 weeks to cover early, peak, and late bloom. Monitor the official website's bloom status updates starting mid-April. Peak week sees the most vibrant colors and largest crowds. Early bloom (late April) offers 70% color with fewer people. Late bloom (early May-Golden Week) risks browning but coincides with holidays bringing maximum visitors. Weekday visits highly recommended over weekends.
Photography Paradise
The hillside design allows photography from multiple elevations - shoot from below looking up at flower carpet with mountains behind, or from elevated paths looking down at patterns. Wide-angle lenses capture full hillside scope. Macro lenses for flower details. Best light: morning (9-11 AM) or late afternoon when sun illuminates flowers at angle. Overcast days reduce harsh shadows. The geometric planting patterns create deliberate color blocks - frame these intentionally. Arrive at opening (8 AM) for photos without crowds. Tripods allowed.
Avoiding Festival Crowds
The compact site (17,600 sq meters) feels very crowded when popular. Strategies: Visit weekday mornings (8-10 AM) - most visitors come afternoon. Avoid Golden Week (late April-early May) when packed with holiday crowds and traffic jams. Early or late bloom periods offer reduced flowers but also reduced congestion. The viewing paths are one-way during peak times. Allow 60-90 minutes to walk paths, photograph, and enjoy without rushing. Lines form at popular photo spots on weekends.
Mountain Backdrop Views
Hitsujiyama Park's elevation and location provide stunning views of Mt. Buko and surrounding Chichibu mountains behind the flower fields. Clear days (more common in spring) offer the most dramatic backdrops. Early morning often provides clearest mountain visibility before afternoon haze. The combination of colorful foreground flowers with mountain landscapes creates uniquely Japanese scenic beauty. Some viewpoints place Mt. Buko directly behind peak flower displays - seek these angles.
Festival Food & Local Specialties
During the festival, food stalls sell Chichibu specialties: miso-potatoes (boiled potatoes with sweet miso), waraji-katsu (oversized pork cutlet), handmade soba, and local sake. Several permanent restaurants near the park serve these year-round. The sheep farm area (April-May only) offers soft-serve ice cream. Prices moderate (¥500-1,000 for items). Pack picnic to enjoy on park lawns outside festival area. Limited dining options off-season.
Live Sheep Encounters
True to its name, real sheep graze in a dedicated area of Hitsujiyama Park during spring-summer (April-May primarily). Children can observe and sometimes interact with sheep. The sheep farm area is small but adds unique character matching the park's historical name. Free to observe. Located near the shibazakura area. The combination of flowers and pastoral scenes creates charming, unexpected juxtaposition.
Exploring Beyond Shibazakura
The larger Hitsujiyama Park includes cherry blossom areas (early April, before shibazakura), walking trails, athletic fields, and observation points. Outside festival season, the park offers peaceful local recreation space with mountain views, free entry, and minimal tourists. Spring cherry blossoms and summer hydrangeas provide additional seasonal flowers. The park connects to Chichibu city's historic district and shrines for full-day itineraries.
Chichibu Region Combination
Hitsujiyama Park combines well with other Chichibu attractions: Chichibu Shrine (historic main shrine, 15 min walk), nostalgic Chichibu town (old-style shops, sake breweries), Nagatoro river valley (30 min train, boat rides through gorge), and Mt. Mitake hiking. The scenic Seibu Railway journey from Ikebukuro passes through mountains making the trip itself enjoyable. Consider staying overnight in Chichibu to explore the region, or visit as ambitious day trip from Tokyo (allow 8-9 hours total including transit).
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Hitsujiyama Park for shibazakura?
Mid-April to early May is peak shibazakura season when over 400,000 pink moss phlox plants bloom. The annual Shibazakura Festival typically runs from mid-April through early May. The exact dates vary yearly based on bloom conditions. Late April usually offers the most vibrant displays. Check the official website for current bloom status before visiting.
How long should I spend at Hitsujiyama Park?
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours during shibazakura season. This allows time to walk the hillside paths, take photos, and enjoy the view from different angles. Outside of peak bloom season, 30-45 minutes is sufficient to explore the park. If you plan to eat at food stalls or visit nearby Chichibu attractions, allocate 2-3 hours total.
Is Hitsujiyama Park crowded during the festival?
Yes, extremely crowded on weekends and holidays during peak bloom, especially late April. Weekday visits are significantly less crowded. Early morning arrivals (before 9am) or late afternoon (after 3pm) help avoid tour groups. The park can accommodate large crowds, but parking becomes difficult on popular days.
What are the admission fees for Hitsujiyama Park?
During the Shibazakura Festival, admission is 300 yen for adults and free for children under 15. Outside of festival season, the park is free to enter year-round. Parking costs 500 yen during the festival period. The fees help maintain the extensive shibazakura plantings and park facilities.
How do I get to Hitsujiyama Park from Tokyo?
Take the Seibu Railway Ikebukuro Line from Ikebukuro Station to Seibu-Chichibu Station (about 80 minutes express). The park is a 20-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride from the station. During the festival, shuttle buses run from the station for 200 yen. From central Tokyo, the journey takes about 2 hours total.
Can I take photos at Hitsujiyama Park?
Yes, photography is encouraged and the pink hillside creates stunning photo opportunities. The best viewpoint is from the observation area overlooking the entire shibazakura carpet. Tripods are allowed but may be restricted in crowded areas. Morning light provides the best photography conditions. The contrast with Mount Buko in the background is particularly photogenic.
Is the park wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Partially accessible. The main observation deck and some paved pathways are wheelchair-friendly with gentle slopes. However, some hillside paths are steep with steps and gravel surfaces. The upper areas may be challenging for wheelchairs and strollers. Accessible restrooms are available near the entrance.
Are there food and drink options at the park?
During the Shibazakura Festival, numerous food stalls sell local Chichibu specialties including miso potato, grilled ayu fish, and yakitori. Prices range from 300-800 yen per item. Soft drinks and ice cream are also available. Outside festival season, bring your own refreshments as options are limited. Picnicking is allowed in designated areas.
What are the nine varieties of shibazakura colors?
The park features nine varieties creating a colorful mosaic: deep pink, light pink, magenta, white with pink centers, pure white, lavender, and striped patterns. The different blooming times and colors create artistic designs visible from the observation deck. MacDaniel's Cushion and Scarlet Flame are among the popular varieties planted.
Can I visit Hitsujiyama Park outside of shibazakura season?
Yes, the park is open year-round and free outside festival season. You can see seasonal flowers including cherry blossoms in early April, hydrangeas in June, and autumn colors in November. The park also has a small petting zoo with sheep (hitsuji means sheep in Japanese). However, the shibazakura bloom is the main attraction.
Is parking available at Hitsujiyama Park?
Yes, but parking is limited and fills early during the festival. The main parking lot holds about 300 cars and costs 500 yen during festival season. Arrive before 9am on weekends to secure parking. Temporary parking areas open during peak season. Using public transportation is recommended on busy days.
What is the sheep petting zoo at the park?
The park has a small sheep farm with about 30 sheep that visitors can observe and sometimes feed. The sheep area is open year-round and free to visit. It's particularly popular with children. The park's name Hitsujiyama means Sheep Mountain, referring to this feature. Feeding times are posted at the entrance.
Are pets allowed in Hitsujiyama Park?
Yes, pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. During the crowded festival period, be mindful of other visitors. Clean up after your pet and dispose of waste properly. Pets cannot enter the sheep petting area. The hillside paths are suitable for walking dogs.
What should I wear when visiting?
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the hillside paths involve some climbing on uneven surfaces. The park is mostly outdoors with limited shade, so bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. Avoid high heels or dress shoes as some paths are steep and gravelly.
Can I combine Hitsujiyama Park with other Chichibu attractions?
Absolutely. Nearby attractions include Chichibu Shrine (10 minutes walk), Chichibu Muse Park (15 minutes drive), and the historic Chichibu Railway SL steam train. The famous Mitsumine Shrine is about 50 minutes away by bus. Many visitors combine the shibazakura with a full day exploring Chichibu's temples, shrines, and nature spots.
Are there English signs and information?
Basic English signage is available at major points including the entrance and observation areas. Festival maps often have English versions. Most staff speak limited English, but the park layout is straightforward. The main goal is simply to walk the paths and enjoy the flower views, which requires minimal navigation.
What is the view like from the observation deck?
The observation deck offers panoramic views of the pink shibazakura hillside with Mount Buko's distinctive quarried face in the background. On clear days, you can see across the Chichibu Basin. This vantage point reveals the artistic patterns created by different colored varieties. It's the most popular photo spot in the park.
Can I visit in the rain?
Yes, the park remains open in light rain and the flowers look beautiful with water droplets. However, hillside paths can become slippery and muddy. Bring rain gear and wear shoes with good traction. Heavy rain may close certain steep paths for safety. The vibrant pink colors often appear more saturated after rain.
Are there souvenirs available?
During the festival, shops sell shibazakura-themed souvenirs including postcards, magnets, and local Chichibu products like sake and miso. Shibazakura plants in pots are sometimes available for purchase. Prices range from 300 yen for small items to 2,000+ yen for premium goods. Local sweets and pickles make good edible souvenirs.
Why is this location significant for shibazakura?
Hitsujiyama Park is one of Japan's largest shibazakura displays covering about 17,600 square meters with over 400,000 plants. It's recognized as one of the eight scenic shibazakura spots in the Kanto region. The hillside location creates a dramatic carpet effect visible from the observation area, making it a premier destination for moss phlox viewing.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
A romantic 1,500-year-old shrine famous for matchmaking blessings, the summer Wind Chime Festival with thousands of glass chimes, and photogenic red torii gates.
Kawagoe Old Town
Known as 'Little Edo,' this charming historic district preserves Edo-period kurazukuri warehouse buildings and traditional atmosphere, just 30 minutes from Tokyo.
Nagatoro River & Iwadatami
A scenic river gorge featuring unique layered rock formations called 'Iwadatami' resembling tatami mats, best explored by traditional boat rides and riverside walks through crystalline schist cliffs.