Guide
Okawara Kogen is a stunning plateau located at an altitude of approximately 1,020m in Sanagouchi Village, Myodo District, Tokushima Prefecture. Located about an hour's drive from Tokushima City, the journey involves a scenic 20-minute ascent via the Asahigaru mountain road, making it one of the closest points to the sky in the region. This vast plateau changes its expression with every season, serving as a popular summer retreat where visitors can escape the heat. It is a premier spot for viewing the sweeping mountain vistas by day, and the brilliant starry sky and sparkling city lights below by night.
The area is characterized by its rich natural environment, with the terrain sloping gently eastward from the summit of Mt. Asahigaru (1,019m). Okawara Kogen is recognized as a significant natural landmark, being selected as part of the "Shikoku 88 Scenic Views" and the "Tokushima 88 Scenic Views." In recent years, the landscape has also become characterized by the coexistence of nature and modern energy through the construction of the Okawara Wind Farm, a large-scale wind power facility.
The charms of Okawara Kogen vary depending on when you visit. From early to late July, the plateau is blanketed by approximately 30,000 hydrangeas. Due to the naturally acidic soil of the region, the flowers tend to bloom in a striking blue hue, allowing visitors to walk through a dreamlike field that mirrors the color of the sky. At night, visitors can observe the stars using the telescopes installed at the Hilltop House, and special stargazing events are often held during the summer. The view of the night lights of Tokushima stretching out below, along with the sunrise and sunset views, are also unforgettable highlights.
The best time to visit is between May and October. The summer months are particularly recommended for those seeking a cool escape from the heat. The experience changes beautifully depending on the time of day: enjoy the vibrant blue hydrangeas and mountain scenery during the day, and witness the celestial wonders of the starry sky and the city lights at night. In the summer mornings and evenings, you may even hear the nostalgic calls of the Higurashi (evening cicadas) in a truly mystical atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls surrounded by nature or engage in stargazing. The Hilltop House provides facilities for astronomical observation, offering a profound connection to the cosmos. Depending on the season, you may also encounter clusters of native plants like Awamitsubatsutsuji (Azaleas) and Katakuri (Dogtooth violets). Spending a quiet moment in this high-altitude environment is a unique experience found only here.
The surrounding area is dotted with spots that showcase the natural beauty of Sanagouchi Village. For instance, the "Okawara Life Environment Conservation Forest" is recognized as one of the top 100 forests for forest bathing, making it ideal for those seeking deep relaxation. The location also offers easy access to other scenic areas in Tokushima, such as Kamikatsu Town, making it a great stop for a broader nature-focused itinerary.
As this is a high-altitude plateau, please be mindful of temperature fluctuations depending on the season and time of day. When visiting in summer, it is highly recommended to wear long sleeves and long pants to protect against insects and snakes. Please note that picking or removing hydrangeas is strictly prohibited. Regarding payments, please check in advance if the local facilities accept credit cards or only cash. For English language support, it is best to check the availability of specific facilities before your visit.