Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Japan, renowned for its breathtaking views. Particularly in spring and autumn, the park transforms into a picturesque wonderland, captivating visitors with its stunning floral landscapes. This guide introduces two iconic highlights: the mesmerizing Nemophila blooms in spring and the vibrant Kochia bushes in autumn. These seasonal displays are a quintessential way to experience the unparalleled natural beauty unique to Japan.
Spring—A Carpet of Blue: Nemophila
In spring, the entire Miharashi Hill area of Hitachi Seaside Park is blanketed with approximately 5.3 million Nemophila blossoms, creating a mesmerizing blue carpet that seems to merge the sky and the earth. This ethereal scenery, reminiscent of a seamless connection between the sky and the sea, has gained immense popularity on social media. From the top of the hill, the endless expanse of blue flowers contrasting with the sky offers a breathtaking view, making you feel as if you’re walking through a serene blue ocean.
The best time to see Nemophila is from April to May. During this period, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking floral scenery while feeling the refreshing breeze of spring. Taking photos amidst the blue blossoms is a popular activity, making it an ideal spot for capturing memorable moments with family or as a couple.
Autumn — A Fiery Red World: “Kochia”
In autumn, the same “Miharashi Hill” reveals a completely different look. Kochia (broom grass) begin to change color, and from late September to mid-October, the entire hill is transformed into a brilliant red landscape. This vivid red display of Kochia creates a scene reminiscent of being surrounded by a sea of autumn foliage, leaving visitors truly awe-inspired.
The round, fluffy shape of the Kochia resembles colorful cotton candy, giving it a charming and whimsical appeal. The contrast with the blue sky enhances its beauty, creating a visually stunning landscape. Especially during sunset, the red Kochia takes on a warm orange hue as it is bathed in the golden light, offering a breathtakingly serene and picturesque view.
Enjoy the Changing Seasons — Access and Facilities
Hitachi Seaside Park, a national treasure in Ibaraki Prefecture, is just a two-hour trip from Tokyo by train and bus, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. The park also offers restaurants and cafes where visitors can savor dishes featuring local Ibaraki ingredients.
The park is equipped with rental bicycles, allowing visitors to explore its vast grounds while taking in the stunning floral displays at their own pace. Additionally, within the grounds, you can find structures that recreate traditional Japanese houses, adding a touch of cultural charm to your visit.
At the restaurant, you can enjoy special menus during seasons like the Nemophila season. During the Nemophila period, they sold a bright blue Nemophila curry. Although it looked blue, the taste was just like regular curry.
A Journey Surrounded by the Magic of Kochia and Nemophila in the National Hitachi Seaside Park’s Breathtaking Seasonal Views
The Hitachi Seaside Park is a place where you can enjoy two breathtaking seasonal views: the Nemophila in spring and the Kochia in autumn. This park, a concentrated showcase of Japan’s natural beauty, offers a different face with each season, making it well worth a visit to experience the changing seasons unique to Japan. When you travel to Japan in spring or autumn, be sure to visit and experience these stunning landscapes, and enjoy the magical moments woven by Japan’s nature.
Basic Information
| Business Hours
3/1 ～ 7/19：9:30 AM ～ 5:00 PM
7/20 ～ 9/1：9:30 AM ～ 6:00 PM
9/2 ～ 10/31：9:30 AM ～ 5:00 PM
11/1 ～ 2月末：9:30 AM ～ 4:30 PM
Check the calendar
Closed Days
・Every Tuesday
・12/31、1/1
・From the day before the first Tuesday in February until the following Friday
Open Every Day
・3/26 ～ 5/31
・7/21 ～ 8/31
・10/1 ～ 10/31
・12/25 ～ 30、1/2 ～ 7
| Prices
Standard pricing
・Adults (15 years old and over)：450 yen
・Seniors (65 years old and over)：210 yen
Seasonal pricing
・Adults (15 years old and over)：800 yen
・Seniors (65 years old and over)：560 yen
* Junior high school and younger students are admitted free of charge.
* Seasonal rates apply in April/May and October.
* The period of seasonal pricing is subject to the actual growth conditions of the plants(Check the exact dates).
| Address
605-4 Oonuma, Watari, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, 312-0012, Japan
312-0012 茨城県ひたちなか市馬渡 字大沼605-4
| Access
Around 15 minutes to the West Gate or 20 minutes to the South Gate by bus from Katsuta Station East Exit Bus Stop No.2.
Special non-stop bus from Katsuta Station East Exit to West Gate (Spring/Autumn Peak Season only)
| Train
- Tokyo(東京)
JR Tokyo-Ueno Line Platform 8 (Bound for Katsuta)
- Ueno(上野)
JR Jo-Ban Line (No transfer needed)
- Toride(取手)
JR Jo-Ban Line (No transfer needed)
- Katsuta(勝田)
If you take the JR Jo-Ban Line bound for Katsuta from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station, you can reach Katsuta Station without transferring.
