San-ko Cosmos Festival

Event Overview

The San-ko Cosmos Festival, held at the San-ko Cosmos Garden in Nakatsu City, Oita, is a beautiful seasonal event marking the arrival of autumn. The festival transforms 15.6 hectares of vast rice fields into a spectacular landscape where approximately 24 million cosmos flowers bloom in full glory. Adding to the vibrant scenery, about 100,000 sunflowers also bloom, creating a multi-colored landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. This is one of Nakatsu's most iconic sightseeing spots, offering an overwhelming sense of natural beauty.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is undoubtedly the endless carpet of cosmos flowers. The sight of colorful pink and white blooms swaying in the autumn breeze is truly breathtaking. As you stroll through the expansive grounds, you can feel the gentle transition of the seasons. It is a highly popular spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the perfect shot. The presence of sunflowers alongside the cosmos adds a unique depth and color to the landscape during this period.

Schedule & Dates

The 2026 event is scheduled from October 8 to October 25. The viewing hours are from 10:00 to 16:00. As this is a seasonal event, we recommend planning your visit carefully to ensure you arrive during the peak blooming period.

Venue & Access

The event takes place at the San-ko Cosmos Garden in Nakatsu City, Oita.

• *By Bus/Train**: Take the bus bound for Hachiman-yama from JR Nakatsu Station and get off at the Naratsu bus stop.
• *By Car**: It is approximately a 10-minute drive from the Nakatsu IC on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway, or about 1 hour from the Hita IC on the Oita Expressway.

Tips for Visitors

Because the venue covers a very large area, wearing comfortable walking shoes is essential. The scenery is so captivating that you may lose track of time while taking photos. Please allow plenty of time for your visit to enjoy the changing light and scenery at your own pace.

What to Bring & Etiquette

The venue is a vast outdoor area. Please wear comfortable shoes (such as sneakers). We also recommend bringing a hat and water to stay comfortable against the sun and changing weather. Entry is free of charge, but please respect local rules and maintain the beauty of the landscape during your visit. For more details, please check the official website.