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Okuwabara Tsutsujien is a beautiful botanical garden located near the center of Sukagawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, designed to maximize the natural terrain. The most striking feature is the vast expanse of over 50,000 plants, including azaleas, western rhododendrons, and peonies. The colorful panorama spreading across two gentle hills offers a breathtaking view that overwhelms visitors with beauty and provides deep relaxation. As a place where the scenery changes with every season, it is beloved by both locals and international tourists seeking a peaceful escape from daily life.
The roots of this garden are deeply historic, inheriting the traditions of a stroll-style garden that dates back to the Muromachi period. The history of the azaleas carefully nurtured here traces back approximately 300 years. Legend has it that the beauty of these flowers was first recognized by a group of high-ranking officials from the Aizu clan returning from Edo, who were so moved by the sight that they gifted the plants to the local landowner. For generations, the passion of local families to protect and propagate these beautiful blooms has shaped the expansive botanical garden seen today. This dedication to preserving tradition and loving nature is what sustains the spectacular views of the present day.
The garden is filled with an endless sea of beautiful flowers. The most iconic view is the panorama of azaleas blooming across the rolling hills. Additionally, the western rhododendrons and peonies are major attractions, each adding a different layer of color depending on the season. For relaxation, the garden offers several spots to enjoy the view, such as the 'Higashi-goya' hut where you can feel the natural breeze, and a free rest area housed in a 150-year-old traditional Japanese folk house. These open spaces allow you to feel the energy of nature while enjoying a moment of solitude or peace.
The best time to visit Okuwabara Tsutsujien is from mid-April to early June. During this period, the azaleas, rhododendrons, and peonies are in full bloom, offering the most spectacular and colorful scenery. We highly recommend visiting in the early morning when the air is crisp and clear; the colors of the flowers appear even more vivid in the morning light, making it an ideal time for photography. While the scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, please note that opening periods may vary based on weather and seasonal conditions, so we recommend checking the latest blooming status before your visit.
Beyond just viewing the flowers, you can enjoy a slow-paced experience using the garden's facilities. For instance, at the rest area renovated from a 150-year-old traditional house, you can sit on the tatami mats and gaze at the view through the veranda, which feels like looking at a 'living painting of azaleas.' There is also an on-site dining area where you can enjoy local treats such as ramen, udon, or soba, as well as light snacks like soft-serve ice cream and grilled dango. Enjoying food amidst nature makes your sightseeing even more memorable. Additionally, the souvenir shop offers seasonal plants and local specialties.
Located in Sukagawa City, Fukushima, the garden is easily accessible via major roads like the Tohoku Expressway and National Route 4. For those traveling by train, consider accessing the area via Sukagawa Station or Koriyama Station. The surrounding region is rich in nature and is an excellent area for a scenic drive. Depending on the season, you can combine your visit with other nearby sightseeing spots to enjoy a more comprehensive tour of the Fukushima area.
Since the garden covers a large area and involves walking on hilly terrain, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for movement. It is also wise to bring a hat for sun protection and water for hydration. The garden provides free parking with space for approximately 400 standard cars and 20 large buses. Pets are allowed, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and follow all etiquette rules. For details regarding payments and reservations, please refer to the inbound information section below.