Spring-time in Fukushima started off with a trip to Hanamiyama Park. We took the shuttle bus from Fukushima Station to the privately owned property. Hanamiyama Park started by local farmers who planted flowering trees on the hillside. From the information center it, is a pleasant walk through flower fields to the main cherry blossom covered slopes. We took the long tour to get to the viewpoint at the top of the mountain. From there, we had a beautiful view over the mountains and Fukushima City. On the trail, there are some guides who give information about the different kinds of cherry blossom trees and flowers that were planted along the way.
In mid april we went on a short trip to Iizaka Onsen. At Fukushima Station one can buy a round trip ticket which includes a free onsen stay at Hanamomo no Yu. But before entering the onsen, we walked to Iizaka Onsen Hanamomo no Sato Park to see the blooming peach trees on the hill. I was a beautiful scenery with the valley, the city and the mountains in the background. Due to the heavy wind, the pedals were falling and covered the grass.
On our way to the Onsen we strolled around the small town and explored a temple. Finally arrived at Hanamomo no Yu, we enjoyed an hour of bathing and went to the restaurant inside the building to have dinner.
At the end of April, we went on a longer trip all the way down from Fukushima Prefecture to Ibaraki Prefecture to visit the Hitachi Seaside Park with it's hill full off Nemophila Flowers. By car it took us around 5:30 hours one way, due to evading the highways to save the toll fee. Nevertheless it was a nice ride through the small villages in the mountain valleys. We saw a lot of traditional japanese houses and gardens with beautiful flower arrangements.
Due to the special season with the Nemophila Flowers blooming, the entrance fee was about 700 Yen per person.
On the one hand, it was absolutely worth it, to see the hill covered in blue flowers. On the other hand, we were not the only people with the idea to go there. The place was filled with a lot of tourists.
Nonetheless, to visit the park in spring or autumn is a great opportunity to see specially arranged flowers or bushes.
福島大学への留学案内・年間スケジュール
