Guida
Ibaraki Flower Park is a sprawling 30-hectare botanical garden located in Ishioka City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Built on the concept of moving from 'viewing' to 'feeling,' the facility is designed so that visitors can do much more than just look at flowers; it is a place for immersive experiences. The park is particularly renowned for its roses, featuring 30,000 plants across 800 different varieties, making it one of the largest rose gardens in Eastern Japan. The park is divided into two main areas: the 'Flower Park' (12 hectares), where various flowers can be enjoyed, and the 'Fureai no Mori' (18 hectares), a lush, natural forest area.
The facility opened on June 2, 1985, to coincide with the International Science and Technology Exhibition (Tsukuba Expo) held in the Tsukuba Science City. The primary goals were to enhance floral culture and attract tourists to the Ishioka area. Following a period of renovation to address aging infrastructure, the park underwent a significant renewal completed in 2015. In 2021, it officially rebranded and reopened as 'Ibaraki Flower Park,' taking on the modern form and identity seen today.
The park offers diverse scenery that changes with the seasons. In the Rose Garden, you can witness a breathtaking spectacle of countless varieties in full bloom. Other highlights include the Shaga (Japanese Andromeda) Garden, where 1,000,000 plants grow across 5,000m², and the Yama-yuri (Lilium micholitzii) Garden, home to 12,000 lilies. For easier navigation, a 'Park Shuttle' runs approximately 1.2km from the entrance to the observation deck in the Fureai no Mori area, allowing you to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of a vehicle.
The best time to visit depends on the season. From March to June, the spring blooms, especially the roses, are at their peak. You can also enjoy seasonal flowers in October. Because the grounds are vast, we recommend planning your visit with enough time for both walking and using the shuttle. It is highly recommended to check the official website for the most current blooming status before your trip.
Ibaraki Flower Park offers over 100 different 'sensory activities' that go beyond simple sightseeing. For example, you can enjoy the 'Hana no Suberidai' (Flower Slide), an 800m long sports slide, or the 'Flower Cycle,' a 190m long rail bike. There are also 10 types of field athletics available, making it a perfect destination for those looking to stay active while surrounded by nature.
Located in Ishioka, Ibaraki, the park is surrounded by various facilities related to the Tsukuba Science City and other local tourist spots. While driving is the most convenient way to visit, travelers using public transport typically take a taxi from Ishioka Station on the Joban Line.
Since the park is very large, visitors are expected to walk significant distances; therefore, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. While there are rest areas and facilities on-site, please bring items to prepare for changing weather. Payments can be made at various facilities and shops within the park using cash or cards. For English-language guidance, please refer to the official website or on-site information boards.