TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hitsujiyama Park is a municipal park in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, located on a small hill overlooking the Chichibu Basin. Its name comes from the fact that sheep were once grazed on this hill. The park's greatest attraction is Shibazakura Hill, where in spring the entire slope is covered in pink, white, and purple moss phlox flowers, creating a vibrant landscape with the Chichibu mountain range, including Mt. Buko, in the distance. The Chichibu Shibazakura Festival is held every spring, attracting many tourists.
Highlights
- Shibazakura Hill: In spring (usually from mid-April to early May), you can see the moss pinks covering the entire hill. You can enjoy the contrast of colors and the "patterns" that are arranged like pictures.
- ViewpointFrom the top of the hill you can get a panoramic view of Chichibu city and Mt. Buko, making it the perfect place for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
- Picnics and walks: There is a grassy area and a promenade where you can take a leisurely stroll or spread out your lunch (entry into the flower beds is prohibited).
- Seasonal EventsDuring the moss phlox season, the Chichibu Moss Phlox Festival is held, with food stalls, special exhibitions, and local product sales (contents vary from year to year).
- Flora and fauna observation:Even outside of spring, you can enjoy observing nature, such as trees, flowers, and wild birds.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Railway
- A few minutes' walk from Ohanabatake Station on the Chichibu Railway (closest to the park).
- It is about a 10-20 minute walk from Chichibu Railway's Chichibu Station or Seibu Railway's Seibu-Chichibu Station (this may vary depending on the station and exit).
- From Tokyo (Ikebukuro), you can access the station by direct express train or transfer on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. Travel times vary depending on the train and connections, so please check the timetable in advance.
- car
- Access the park from the Kan'etsu Expressway's Hanazono IC via national and prefectural roads. There is a parking lot near the park, but it may be crowded during the moss phlox season, and temporary parking lots or fees may be charged, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Shuttle and special buses: During the moss phlox season and events, special buses and shuttles may operate from the station. Operational conditions change depending on the year, so please check the official information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing the moss phlox only: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours (taking into account photography and crowds).
- If you take a leisurely stroll and have a picnic: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Day trip plan that also includes visiting nearby tourist spots (such as Chichibu Shrine): Half day to full day.
Nearby spots
- Chichibu Shrine (within walking distance / famous for its historic shrine and sculptures)
- Chichibu Festival Hall (festival floats and historical exhibits)
- Nagatoro (Railway Cruise and Rock Formations) — A natural tourist destination accessible by car or public transport
- Mount Buko (exterior view/base for mountain climbing)
- Hot springs and commercial facilities around Seibu Chichibu Station (such as Matsuri no Yu)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Measures to prevent congestion: The park will be extremely crowded during the peak viewing period of the moss phlox (roughly mid-April to early May) and during Golden Week. We recommend visiting early in the morning, on weekdays, and using public transportation.
- Admission and fees: During the moss phlox season, there may be a fee to view the area. Admission fees and opening hours change each year, so please check the official website in advance.
- Consideration for flowers and plants：Please do not enter the flower beds or planted areas. When taking photos, please observe proper etiquette, such as not entering the ropes or picking flowers.
- Garbage and food: Please take your trash home with you or dispose of it in the designated area. The use of fire may be prohibited within the park.
- Barrier-free access and mobility: As the area is hilly, there are many slopes and stairs, so care must be taken when moving strollers or wheelchairs. If necessary, please check the nursery's guide in advance to find out about barrier-free routes.
- Pets, drones, etc.: There may be restrictions on bringing pets and drones into the park. Please keep pets on a leash and observe prohibited areas. Drones are generally prohibited for the safety of other visitors and to prevent them from causing a nuisance.
- Weather/Clothing：In spring, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Depending on the weather, the ground can get muddy in places, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
For the latest information on flowering, admission, and traffic restrictions, please be sure to check the official websites of Chichibu City and Hitsujiyama Park, as well as the official Chichibu Shibazakura Festival information. Have a nice trip!
