Hanamiyama Park

Hanamiyama Park is a renowned flower-viewing spot located in the Watari district of Fukushima City. It gained widespread recognition thanks to the late Shōtarō Akiyama, a prominent Japanese photographer, who praised it as "a paradise on Earth in Fukushima." His frequent visits for photography helped introduce the park to audiences nationwide. The park features flower fields, small streams, and the original scenery of a satoyama (village forest) landscape, all lovingly nurtured by generations of local flower farmers, captivating all who visit.

The park originated from the Abe family, who transitioned from silkworm farming to flower cultivation between the Taisho era and early Showa period. They cleared a woodland area in front of their home to plant flowers, hoping to share its beauty with many. In 1959, they opened the fields to the public, and since then, it has been cherished as a representative tourist destination of Fukushima.

In spring, approximately 70 different species of flowers including ume (plum blossoms), tokaizakura (Prunus serrulata var. spontanea), higanzakura (eastern hill cherry), someiyoshino (Japanese cherry), renge (forsythia), boke ( Japanese flowering quince), hanamomo (flowering peach), and mokuren (magnolia) bloom in succession, painting the entire mountain in soft pinks and yellows, creating a truly stunning spectacle of floral beauty. Due to the diversity of flowers, the peak viewing season stretches from late March to late April, allowing visitors to enjoy different aspects with each visit. At the foot of the mountain, canola flowers planted by local elementary school students add to the vibrant scenery.

From the summit, you can overlook the city of Fukushima, and enjoy the flowers set against the majestic backdrop of the Azuma and Adatarayama mountain ranges. In early spring, the remaining snow on Azuma Kōfu forms a shape known as the "Azuma Snow Rabbit", creating a delightful contrast with the blossoms.

The park features three scenic walking courses, lasting 30, 45, or 60 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the views at their own pace. Additionally, guests can take guided tours with volunteer guides known as "Fukushima Flower Guides", gaining deeper insights into the charm of the flowers.

The landscape of Hanamiyama Park, which symbolizes the spring of Fukushima, truly represents a "paradise on Earth." Surrounded by a patchwork of colorful flowers, visitors can spend a dreamlike moment in its beauty. Today, it attracts numerous tourists from both Japan and abroad, becoming a proud tourist spot for Fukushima City.