Guide
Located in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, "Zama City Himawari Hiroba" (Sunflower Square) is a massive destination where approximately 550,000 sunflowers bloom across a vast area. The striking contrast between the bright blue sky and the golden yellow flowers makes it a beloved symbol of summer. The most spectacular period is from early to mid-August when the flowers are in full bloom.
The history of this site dates back to 1993. It began when the local agricultural cooperative planted sunflowers—the official flower of Zama City—as a way to revitalize unused farmland. As the area grew in popularity among visitors, the event evolved into the current "Sunflower Festival" format starting in 2000. Today, it is firmly established as a quintessential summer tradition in Zama City.
The primary highlight is the overwhelming scale of the sunflower field, covering an area of 5.5 hectares. On clear days, the sight of the endless yellow blooms is breathtaking and highly popular among photographers. During the "Zama City Sunflower Festival" held in mid-August, visitors can enjoy purchasing fresh sunflower cut flowers, as well as various local agricultural products and specialties. Occasionally, unique activities like sweetfish (ayu) catching are also held.
The best time to visit is between July and August when the sunflowers are at their peak. Specifically, early to mid-August offers the most vibrant and beautiful views. While bright daylight provides the best contrast with the blue sky for photos, visiting in the late afternoon/evening allows you to see the sunflower fields bathed in the soft, golden light of the setting sun, offering a completely different atmosphere than midday.
Beyond strolling through the flower fields, you can indulge in local flavors during the festival period. Various food stalls offer local specialties and seasonal delicacies. You may also find opportunities to buy cut sunflowers or participate in seasonal events like sweetfish (ayu) catching. It is a wonderful way to experience the colors and flavors of the season in a natural setting.
Zama City Himawari Hiroba is located near the Sagami River. In addition to the main Zama venue, sunflower viewing is also possible at the Yotsuya venue. The surrounding area is characterized by the beautiful, lush landscapes of the Sagami River basin.
Since you will be walking across a vast outdoor area, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. As this is an outdoor activity in the heat of summer, please bring a hat, sun protection (sunscreen/parasol), and plenty of water to stay hydrated.