Guide
Hodosan Roubaien is a specialized garden located near the summit of Mt. Hodosan (497m) in Nagatoro, Saitama Prefecture. Spanning approximately 15,000 square meters, the garden is home to about 800 shrubs and a total of 3,000 Winter Sweet plants. Known scientifically as 'Winter Sweet,' these plants are incredibly hardy and release a deep, sweet fragrance from mid-winter to early spring. It is considered one of the finest locations in the Kanto region to experience this seasonal beauty, offering visitors a sensory experience of fragrant blossoms paired with a sweeping view of the Chichibu basin and surrounding mountains.
Mt. Hodosan has been a beloved natural landmark for generations. The area near the summit has been carefully developed into a garden to showcase seasonal flowers. The Winter Sweet plays a central role here, symbolizing the transition of seasons by blooming amidst the winter chill. The garden features three distinct varieties of Winter Sweet, each offering unique characteristics in terms of flower shape and scent.
The garden primarily features three varieties of Winter Sweet: 'Wa-roubai' (the original species with a reddish-purple center and small flowers), 'Soshin' (known for its strong scent and sword-shaped petals), and 'Mangetsu.' These varieties bloom together in the open, airy environment at an altitude of 497m. Another major highlight is the panoramic view from the summit, which provides a stunning vantage point to see Mt. Buko—a symbol of Chichibu—as well as the serrated peaks of Mt. Noroshi and the entire Chichibu basin.
The peak blooming season is typically from late December to late February. During this time, the garden is characterized by the intense fragrance and bright yellow flowers that stand out when most other plants are dormant. The colors appear particularly vivid under the gentle sunlight of early spring. Since blooming-status can vary depending on the weather, it is highly recommended to check the latest local flower reports before visiting.
The area serves as a wonderful destination for nature walks and light hiking. Many visitors take the ropeway to reach the summit, allowing for a scenic ride that showcases the Chichibu landscape. Surrounding the garden, you can also find other attractions such as the Hodosan Small Animal Park and the Umekkaen Plum Garden, making it a great area for a full day of nature-based exploration.
The area around Mt. Hodosan offers diverse floral landscapes throughout the year. Nearby, you can enjoy the Umekkaen Plum Garden for plum blossoms or visit the famous Nagatoro cherry blossom spots in the spring. At the foot of the mountain, the Hodosan Small Animal Park provides a wonderful environment to interact with nature and animals.
Please prepare cash (Japanese Yen) for ropeway fares and parking fees. While some facilities may accept credit cards or transit IC cards, having cash on hand is the most reliable way to ensure smooth transactions.
English language support and signage are limited within the garden and surrounding facilities. Most information and staff communication are primarily in Japanese.
No advanced reservations are required to enter the garden. However, it is recommended to check the official website for ropeway operating hours and parking availability to avoid any inconvenience.
As the blooming season occurs from winter to early spring, temperatures can be quite low. Please wear warm clothing (heavy jackets or coats) and comfortable walking shoes, as the area includes hiking paths with some slopes.
Photography is permitted throughout the garden. We kindly ask that you follow local etiquette to protect the plants and ensure you do not obstruct other visitors.
While the ropeway provides access to the summit area, please be aware that parts of the garden and the hiking trails include steps and uneven terrain, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users.