More than just cherry trees: Hitachi Seaside Park, a enchanting pink carpet in Japan
When you think of Japan and its blossoms, your mind immediately turns to the famous cherry trees in spring, the famous Sakura . Yet, there is a place capable of surprising even those who know the Land of the Rising Sun well: Hitachi Seaside Park , in Ibaraki Prefecture.
Here, every autumn, nature offers a breathtaking spectacle, transforming the hills into a sea of pink and red that seems to have emerged from an animated film. A brief but intense phenomenon , it attracts visitors from around the world and deserves to be included among the most evocative experiences of a trip to Japan .
Hitachi Seaside Park: The Garden of the Four SeasonsLocated in Hitachinaka , just steps from the sea, Hitachi Seaside Park covers an area of approximately 190-200 hectares and is famous for its incredible variety of seasonal blooms . Each season offers unique landscapes: in spring , for example, the fields are tinged with blue thanks to the nemophila .
But it's autumn that makes the Japanese park truly unique. In October, in fact, the kochia , rounded bushes that change color with the passing of the seasons, take on fiery pink and red hues .
This phenomenon, which lasts just two weeks , has become a favorite among photography enthusiasts. Walking along the paths surrounded by colorful expanses is like entering an enchanted world, ideal for taking unforgettable photos .
In addition to flowers, the park also offers bike paths, a Ferris wheel for bird's-eye views, and numerous events, including the famous Rock in Japan Festival.
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Hitachi Seaside Park is located approximately 138 kilometers from Tokyo , in Ibaraki Prefecture. Its strategic location makes it an ideal day trip from the capital.
There are several ways to reach it:
- By train : From Tokyo Station, go to Katsuta Station. From there, a bus takes you to the park entrance in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can get to Ajigaura Station on the Minato Line of the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway, located a short distance from the entrance.
- By car : The park is also easily accessible via the E6/E50 toll highway, with a travel time of about two hours. There's a paid parking lot outside the park.
Autumn scenery at Hitachi Seaside Park
The park is open almost year-round , but hours vary depending on the season. It's recommended to check the official Hitachi Seaside Park website before planning a visit.
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Ticket prices vary depending on the season: from 450 to 800 yen (about 3-5 euros). A truly reasonable price, considering the beauty of the place and the activities available.
The best time to admire the pink and red kochia is October , when the park transforms into a natural carpet of vibrant colors. For this reason, it's advisable to plan your visit in advance so you don't miss a spectacle that lasts just a few days.
