Guide
Higashizawa Rose Park is a specialized rose park located in Murayama City, Yamagata Prefecture. Spanning approximately 7 hectares, the park is home to roughly 750 varieties and 20,000 rose bushes. The park offers a rich, natural space where the air is filled with the scent of roses, changing its character with each season. Visitors can enjoy a multi-sensory experience through the 'Scented Rose Area,' which focuses on fragrance, and various facilities that allow you to enjoy rose-themed treats.
The park was developed to promote the cultivation and appreciation of roses. The annual 'Rose Festival,' held during peak blooming periods, has become a symbolic event for the local community. Designed to harmonize with the natural topography, the park plays a vital role in showcasing the local environment alongside seasonal flora. With its diverse range of rose varieties, the park holds significant botanical value and serves as a major regional tourism resource.
The park features a Classic Garden with beautiful landscapes and a dedicated area focused on the sensory experience of rose scents. The sheer variety of roses creates a vibrant, colorful spectacle. A must-visit spot is the 'Rose Exchange Hall,' where you can experience rose-themed culinary culture. Here, you can purchase unique rose-flavored soft-serve ice cream and relax on the terrace while overlooking the stunning garden scenery.
Nature changes beautifully throughout the year at Higashizawa Rose Park. The most spectacular time to visit is during the Rose Festivals in June and from mid-to-late September, when the blooms are at their peak. In mid-April, you can also enjoy the sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom, offering a different seasonal charm. Please note that the park is closed from November to March, so it is important to check the season before your visit.
Stroll through paths surrounded by the colors and scents of roses. At the Rose Exchange Hall, you can experience the culture of roses through taste by trying their signature rose-infused soft-serve ice cream. The second-floor terrace offers a perfect spot for a break, providing a panoramic view of the vast garden. Observing the subtle shifts in seasonal plant life is a unique way to connect with the park's natural rhythm.
The park is surrounded by the lush, natural landscapes of Murayama City. It is accessible via a roughly 20-minute walk from JR Murayama Station, making it reachable via public transport. The surrounding area features various nature-based sightseeing spots, making the park an excellent starting point for a travel route through Yamagata Prefecture.
Payments at the Rose Exchange Hall and souvenir shops can be made via cash or credit cards (Visa/MasterCard, etc.). However, as conditions may change during special events, we recommend carrying cash just in case.
While basic information is provided on signs and notices, detailed English support from staff may be limited. It is helpful to have a translation app ready for more complex inquiries.
Admission fees apply during the Rose Festival periods, but no advanced reservations are required. For standard visiting days, no special reservations are needed to use the park facilities.
The park is designed following the natural terrain and includes some slopes. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Depending on the season, the sun can be strong, so bringing a hat or a parasol is advisable.
Photography is permitted throughout the park. However, please be considerate of other visitors. If you plan to use a tripod or engage in professional-scale photography, please follow local rules and guidelines.
The main paths in the park are paved with asphalt, and certain areas are wheelchair accessible. However, due to the natural slopes, assistance may be required in some sections. Multipurpose toilets are located at four points: near the main entrance, the west entrance, the Classic Garden, and the vicinity of the Boathouse. Service animals are also welcome.