Located in Ichinoseki City (一関), Iwate Prefecture, Michinoku Hydrangea Garden is one of Japan’s premier spots to enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of hydrangeas. Every summer, the garden hosts the “Michinoku Hydrangea Festival,” showcasing over 400 varieties and 40,000 hydrangeas in full bloom. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing this vibrant floral event.

🌸 Festival Overview

• Dates: June 25 to July 21, 2025
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
• Admission Fees:
  • Adults (High School and above): ¥1,000
  • Children (Junior High School and below): ¥200

🚗 How to Get There

By Public Transportation

• Train: Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Ichinoseki Station.
• Bus: From the Ichinoseki Station West Exit Bus Terminal (Platform 3), take the Iwate Kenpoku Bus “Surisawa Line” and get off at “Mizukami” bus stop (about 30 minutes). From there, it’s a 15-20 minute walk to the garden.
• Shuttle Bus: On weekends and public holidays during the festival period, a free shuttle bus operates between the Mizukami bus stop and the garden.

By Car

• Expressway Access: Take the Tohoku Expressway and exit at Ichinoseki IC. From there, follow Route 19 for approximately 30 minutes.
• Parking: Free parking is available for about 160 vehicles.

🌟 Highlights of the Festival

1. Hydrangea Pond

Witness a stunning display of approximately 5,000 hydrangea blossoms floating on a 100-square-meter pond. The vivid colors create a picturesque and serene scene, perfect for photography.

2. Walking Trails

The garden offers three distinct walking courses:

• Okuhime Course: Approx. 1.2 km
• Kurenai Course: Approx. 900 m
• Miyama Course: Approx. 650 m

Each course winds through towering cedar trees, revealing various hydrangea varieties and seasonal flowers.

3. Yamamoto Collection

Don’t miss the rare collection of mountain hydrangeas gathered by Takeshi Yamamoto, the former president of the Japan Hydrangea Association. This unique exhibit features varieties from across Japan, offering a glimpse into the nation’s hydrangea heritage.

🌼 Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes as the trails can be uneven.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially on hot summer days.
• Check the weather forecast and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.

Experience the enchanting world of hydrangeas at Michinoku Hydrangea Garden, where nature and artistry blend to create a breathtaking floral spectacle. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil escape, this summer festival is a must-see destination in Tohoku.

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