Guide
Himawari no Oka Park is a vast multi-purpose park spanning approximately 80,000 square meters, located in Joya-cho, Ono City, Hyogo Prefecture. The park's greatest charm lies in its ever-changing floral scenery. Visitors can experience the shifting seasons through vibrant sunflowers in summer, rapeseed and canola flowers in spring, and delicate cosmos in autumn.
The park's most striking landmark is the 'Sunflower Tower,' a massive 20-meter tall structure weighing approximately 260 tons, crafted from granite. Designed to promote the city of Ono, the tower features intricate carvings of sunflower motifs and symbols related to local history. At night, the tower is illuminated, offering a completely different atmosphere from its daytime appearance.
Originally developed as a seasonal flower garden, the park underwent significant expansion and renovation in 2002. Today, it has evolved into a beloved community hub and tourist destination, featuring large-scale play facilities, a Western-style garden, and various dining and commercial facilities.
The design of the 'Sunflower Tower' deeply reflects local culture. The center of the tower features not only the emblem of Ono City but also carvings representing the National Treasure Jodo-ji Temple and local specialties such as the abacus and metalwork, serving as a testament to the region's rich history and craftsmanship.
Visitors can enjoy diverse landscapes throughout the year. The summer highlight is the expansive sunflower field, featuring varieties such as 'Sun Rich Lemon' and 'Taiyo,' which creates a sea of gold across the landscape. In autumn, the park transforms into a tranquil space filled with blooming cosmos.
For families, the 'Wanpaku Hiroba' (Playground Area) with its large climbing structures and the 'Playable Fountain' offer endless fun for children. The availability of on-site dining and commercial shops also allows visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the scenic views.
The best time to visit depends on the flowers you wish to see. For the spectacular sunflower displays, aim for the peak period from late June to early July. If you prefer the gentle beauty of cosmos, mid-October to November is the ideal time. Spring visitors can also enjoy the bright colors of rapeseed and canola flowers.
During the day, the sunlight makes the flower colors appear most vivid, making it a perfect time for walking and photography. For a more magical experience, visit during the evening to see the 'Sunflower Tower' beautifully lit up.
Strolling through the park while admiring the natural scenery is a highlight for many. Photography is extremely popular here, especially with the seasonal flowers as backdrops. Children will particularly enjoy the active play areas and the rhythmic water displays from the fountains.
Between walks, you can explore the on-site commercial facilities to check out local specialties or enjoy a meal. It is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing day immersed in nature.
The area around the park is rich in history and culture. Nearby, you can visit the National Treasure Jodo-ji Temple to learn more about the region's heritage. Other nearby attractions include the 'Ono Alps' and 'Yunika Hot Spring,' making it easy to plan a comprehensive sightseeing trip through the Ono region.
As the park is quite large, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. If visiting in summer to see the sunflowers, please bring a hat and plenty of water to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Most facilities and shops within the park accept both cash and credit cards. However, some smaller kiosks or specific facilities may only accept cash, so it is highly recommended to carry some Japanese Yen with you.
English-language signage and specialized staff support may be limited. While most basic facilities are easy to use, detailed information is primarily provided in Japanese.
No prior reservation is required to enter the park. It is open for free-entry strolls and activities.
Casual photography is free and encouraged. However, if you are planning professional or commercial photography, please contact the park management office in advance.
The park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible parking and multi-purpose restrooms. Please note that some areas of the park may have gentle slopes.