Missed cherry blossom season? Don’t worry because while cherry blossoms may be a symbol of Japan, the country boasts a magnificent array of flowers blooming throughout the year.

 

From vibrant petals to captivating blooms, there's always a floral spectacle – and corresponding viewing festivals – waiting to be discovered. No matter when you schedule your trip, you can experience the magic of Japan’s flower-viewing festivals. Ready to explore? Read on.

 

1. Poppies and lavenders in Farm Tomita Flower Fields (Hokkaido)

 

Farm Tomita Flower Fields Irodori Field ©Farm Tomita

 

Though Hokkaido is most known for its beautiful winter scenery, spring unveils another level of charm at the flower fields which are home to many vibrant perennials – flowers that can withstand the cold winter temperatures and typically have a lifespan of two or more years.

 

At Farm Tomita, you can find thirteen different garden areas and fields where multiple varieties of flowers grow — including the popular Irodori Field known for the rainbow of colorful flowers that cover the rolling hills. As spring awakens, marvel at the gorgeous hues of Iceland poppies and oriental poppies at the Spring Field. And when summer approaches, the Traditional Lavender Field turns purple as the lavenders start to bloom. Don't miss the postcard-perfect beauty of the snow-capped Tokachi Mountains rising majestically in the distance.

 

You can also take home some souvenirs infused with the essences of the flowers that grow on the farm. If you like the scent of lavender, you can make scented bookmarks that are doused in lavender oil made from the farm’s distillery. And to make the most of your visit, check out the many cafes, shops, and art exhibits available within Farm Tomita.

 

Best time to visit to see poppies: Early to mid-July (varies per field and poppy variety)
Best time to visit to see lavenders: Early to mid-July

 

 

2. Lotuses in Takada Castle Site Park (Niigata Prefecture) 

 

©Joetsu Tourism Convention Association

 

Lotus flowers hold deep cultural and religious meaning that spans internationally. In Japan, you can find lotus flowers in ponds near temples and shrines. In Buddhist cultures, it is said that these flowers symbolize purity and resilience due to their remarkable ability to rise above murky waters with their pristine petals on the surface.

 

If you want to see lotus flowers in full bloom, try to catch the Takada Castle Site Park Lotus Festival in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture. Held every summer at the Takada Castle Site Park, the castle's outer moat which encompasses a vast 19 hectares, transforms into a sea of pink and white as magnificent lotus flowers burst into full bloom on the water's surface. The castle is also hailed as one of the top three castle night views in Japan.

 

Best time to visit: Mid-July to early August

 

 

3. Sunflowers in Manno Town (Kagawa Prefecture)

 

©Kagawa Prefecture Tourism Association

 

The sight of sunflowers will be the highlight of your trip to Japan. Known as “the flower of summer”, these bright blossoms take over the landscape from late July to September — depending on the area — stealing the show at festivals nationwide.

 

If you’re aiming to see Japan’s sunflowers chasing the sunlight, don’t miss out on the Himawari Festival in Manno Town, located in the southwestern part of Kagawa Prefecture. The festival is held annually in July to celebrate the town’s most valuable bloom.

 

Visitors can marvel at over 1.2 million sunflowers that grow in and around the town. Aside from wandering through the various sunflower fields, you can also attend the town’s music festival, visit the lively bazaars, or participate in a photography contest. You can also enjoy Manno Town’s various specialties, including Michiru (a sunflower seed shochu or Japanese distilled beverage), or take home a bottle of pure, additive-free Manno sunflower oil.

 

Best time to visit: end of June to early July

 

Whether you’re a nature lover or a traveler looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, remember these places when you’re planning your next trip to Japan.

 

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