I visited Hitsujiyama Park on April 16th to see the shibazakura (moss phlox). Although the sky was overcast, the flowers were in their prime, and I spent a relaxing hour and a half fully immersing myself in the breathtaking scenery.
The park is easily accessible—just an 80-minute ride from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Line’s limited express “Laview.” From Yokoze Station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the entrance. The admission fee is 500 yen. Inside the park, you’ll find a temporary food court called “Chichibu Marche,” where you can enjoy a local lunch amidst the flowers.
Framing the background is Mount Bukō (1,304m), the iconic symbol of the Chichibu region. Composed largely of limestone, the mountain has long been quarried for cement production. Its rugged, stepped appearance, carved out over the years, gives it a striking silhouette reminiscent of a giant pyramid.
The park is nestled in the Hitsujiyama hills to the north of Mount Bukō. Planting began around the year 2000, and it has since grown into a premier tourist destination. Across the 17,600-square-meter slope, approximately 400,000 moss phlox plants of ten different varieties are meticulously arranged, creating a stunning “floral patchwork” of vibrant colors.
After spending about an hour and a half at the park, you can return to Yokoze Station and take a short hop to Seibu-Chichibu Station. There, you can enjoy a local meal, stroll through the charming retro streets, and visit the historic Chichibu Shrine to round off your day trip.
Shibazakura Festival 2026 (Information)
・Event Period: April 3 (Fri) – May 6 (Wed), 2026
・Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
・Official Website: https://www.chichibuji.gr.jp/shiba2026/
Check the official website for the latest flowering conditions.