At a glance
Spectacular mountain slopes blanketed in pink moss phlox (shibazakura) transform Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park into a vibrant spring destination. Featuring go-karts, a fishing pond, and picturesque walking paths across 8 hectares of flowering hillside, this Hokkaido gem offers both natural beauty and family entertainment.
Photographs
Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park
Nestled across ten hectares of gently rolling hills at the foot of Mount Mokoto in northeast Hokkaido, Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park blossoms into a sea of pink moss phlox (shibazakura) each spring. Originating from just a few plants in postwar decades, this extraordinary garden was shaped by Mr. Suekichi Nakahachi’s dedication. He painstakingly planted one hectare per year, spending over two decades turning the hillside vivid pink by hand.
Beyond its sweeping floral carpet, the park offers a mix of gentle amusement and peaceful corners to explore. Families can race go-karts around an 820 meter track winding through swaths of pink blooms, enjoy casting lines in a trout fishing pond, or let kids run wild in the playground and activity area. For those who prefer less walking, a scenic park tram ferries visitors effortlessly to the observation decks, offering panoramic views without the climb.
At the heart of the hillside stands a pink torii gate, leading up stone steps to the Yamatsumi Shrine, a popular photo spot especially when set against the layers of shibazakura. Another fun detail: staff and visitors enjoy looking out for rare seven petaled moss phlox, believed to bring good luck, much like four-leaf clovers in the West.
What visitors might not see is the year round care behind the blooms. Maintenance teams, including the so-called Shibazakura Ladies, weed, replant, and nurture the flowers by hand, avoiding pesticides entirely to ensure each spring’s explosion of color is as breathtaking as ever.
Over the years, facilities have expanded. Camping areas with bungalow-style dream houses, stage spaces for festivals, and even footbaths fed by nearby onsen sprays enrich the visitor experience. Today, the site draws tens of thousands of visitors every season, from local families to international travelers, who wander through what truly feels like a living, blooming work of art.
Before you go
Admission is around ¥600 for adults (often ¥500 for groups of 10+), ¥300 for children, and admission is free outside the festival season. There’s free parking for about 1,000 cars. Tripods are discouraged during crowd times, but handheld or small tripods are fine if unobtrusive. Toilets, an information center, food stalls, and wheelchair‑accessible main routes are available. Visitors with mobility challenges can use the sightseeing tram service. Seasonal food stalls and a café serve local delights, especially the beloved pink shibazakura soft serve ice cream, flavored with milk from the region’s dairies.
The Shibazakura Festival runs annually from around May 3 to May 31. During this period, the park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and all facilities including the sightseeing tram, food stalls, and shop areas are in full operation. Outside of the festival season, the park remains open year-round with free entry, but floral displays are absent and most amenities may be closed or limited.
When to go
Mid to late May is the prime season for visiting Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park, when the iconic pink moss phlox blankets the hills in vibrant color. The park bursts into life during this period, with the delicate flowers creating a stunning pink carpet across the 8-hectare landscape. For the most peaceful experience, visit early on weekday mornings between 8 AM and 10 AM when crowds are minimal and lighting is ideal for photography. Weekend afternoons tend to be extremely busy, especially during peak bloom season, so plan accordingly to avoid the largest crowds.
Average crowd levels throughout the day, based on historical data.
Public review summary
Visitors praise the spectacular pink moss phlox displays in May, with many noting the stunning panoramic views and pleasant floral scents. The parks go-kart tracks and monkey shows add family entertainment value. While some mention crowding during peak bloom and steep walking paths, the overall experience is highly rated. The soft-serve ice cream and food options receive consistent praise.
What you'll find here
Location & access
- DirectionsAddress
393 Higashimokotosuehiro, 大空町 Ozora, Abashiri District, Hokkaido 099-3232, Japan
- How to get there
By Public Transportation: Take the JR Okhotsk limited express to Abashiri Station, then board a bus towards Higashimokoto (東藻琴); ride time is about 45 minutes. From the stop, it’s a short walk or a brief local taxi hop if needed. During festival season, a free shuttle bus may run to the park (reservation required). For the shuttle bus during season and for local bus timetables check here.
By Car: From Abashiri, drive approximately 30 minutes via Route 39 and 273 to reach the park. From Memanbetsu Airport, expect around 30 minutes. The park has ample parking onsite.
Common questions
When is the best time to see the moss phlox in bloom?
The moss phlox (shibazakura) reaches peak bloom in mid to late May, typically around May 20th. The flowers create a stunning pink carpet across the hillsides during this period. Visitors should plan their trip during this window for the most spectacular display, though exact timing can vary slightly depending on weather conditions.
Are there activities besides flower viewing?
Yes, the park offers several recreational activities including go-kart rides, a fishing pond, and hiking trails. There's also a playground for children and picnic areas. The park features a sightseeing car service to the observation point for those who prefer not to walk, and occasional special events like monkey shows are held.
What facilities are available at the park?
The park provides essential amenities including public restrooms, picnic tables, and wheelchair-accessible facilities. There's a large free parking lot that can accommodate up to 1,000 vehicles. Food stalls and shops are available where visitors can purchase refreshments, including popular items like shibazakura-flavored soft serve ice cream.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park features wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking facilities. While some areas may be challenging due to the hillside terrain, the main viewing areas can be accessed by wheelchair. A sightseeing car service is also available for those with mobility concerns.
How long should I plan to spend at the park?
The average visit duration is about 1 hour, though many visitors spend longer to fully enjoy the flowers and additional activities. Consider allowing extra time if you plan to try activities like go-karting, fishing, or hiking, or if you want to enjoy a leisurely picnic among the flowers.
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