Awaji Hanasajiki

Overview & Charm

Awaji Hanasajiki is a massive prefectural park located on a high plateau between 235m and 298m above sea level on the northern side of Awaji Island. The site is vast, covering an area approximately four times the size of Koshien Stadium, and is characterized by an immense sea of flowers blooming toward the Osaka Bay. With roughly 2.5 million flowers planted throughout the year, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation of color with every season. Following a major renewal in 2020, the park now features enhanced facilities including an observation deck, a cafe restaurant, and shops selling local specialties.

History & Cultural Background

The park opened on April 4, 1998, as a way for Hyogo Prefecture to showcase its status as a 'Flower Island.' It has played a vital role in regional tourism, notably hosting the 'Awaji Flower Expo 2015: Flower & Greenery Fair.' On March 20, 2020, the park underwent a significant renewal and was officially renamed 'Hyogo Prefectural Park Awaji Hanasajiki,' introducing more convenient facilities and new vantage points for visitors to enjoy.

Main Highlights

The park is divided into areas with different seasonal themes. In spring, the landscape is covered in bright yellow rapeseed blossoms; in summer, sunflowers and cleome take center stage; and in autumn, the hills turn with colorful cosmos. The 'Celestial Flower Garden' and 'Garden of Joy' are particularly famous for blending seasonal blooms with a panoramic view of Osaka Bay. A standout feature is the 'Observation Deck,' situated about 10 meters above the ground, offering an unobstructed view of the sea. This deck is connected to the main facility via a modern skywalk-style corridor.

Seasonal Recommendations

The scenery depends entirely on when you visit. Spring (April–May) is the season for rapeseed, Summer (July–August) for sunflowers and cleome, and Autumn (September–October) for cosmos. While the flowers look stunning in bright daylight, the scenery at dusk is also incredibly beautiful. We highly recommend checking the official website's live camera before your visit to check the current blooming status and weather conditions.

Experiences & Activities

Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the vast natural landscapes. The park frequently hosts seasonal events such as the 'Rapeseed Festival,' 'Poppy Festival,' or 'Cosmos Festival.' For a more relaxing experience, you can dine at the 'Cafe Restaurant Galleri,' which offers meals with a breathtaking view of the flowers and the sea. Additionally, the 'Hanasajiki Terrace' on the first floor features a shop where you can purchase fresh local produce, such as vegetables and fruits from Awaji Island, allowing you to bring a taste of the region home with you.

Surrounding Area

Located in the northern hilly region of Awaji Island, the park is surrounded by beautiful coastlines and various tourist attractions. The on-site specialty shop is an excellent place to pick up local ingredients to enjoy during your travels around the island.

Essentials: Clothing & Etiquette

Because the park covers a vast area, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. As there is little shade in some areas, please bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

• Payment Methods: Cash and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) are accepted at the on-site shops and cafes.
• English Support: English information is available on signage and at various facilities.
• Reservations: No advanced reservation is required for entry.
• Photography: Photography is free and encouraged; please follow park etiquette.
• Accessibility: Wheelchairs are available for rent.
• What to Bring: It is useful to bring beverages for hydration and items for sun protection.