Summer in Japan, despite the sweltering heat and high humidity, is an exciting season filled with vibrant cultural experiences. The air buzzes with the sounds of cicadas and the crackle of fireworks, while towns and cities come alive with colorful summer festivals, known as matsuri. Beach days, seasonal foods, and yukata-clad festival-goers add to the quintessential summer vibe.

One of the best parts of this season is the stunning sunflower fields that burst into bloom, painting the landscape with their sunny hues. Many people think they have to venture far into the countryside to see these golden beauties, but there are actually several breathtaking sunflower fields near Tokyo. Here are five sunflower fields near Tokyo that are perfect for a summer day trip.

Top 5 Sunflower Fields Near Tokyo

Akeno Sunflower Field (Yamanashi Prefecture)

Located about 2 hours from Tokyo, Akeno boasts over 600,000 sunflowers spread across expansive fields. The Sunflower Festival here usually runs from mid-July to early August, with peak bloom typically around the last week of July. This year, the festival is scheduled from July 20 to August 25. Entrance is free, and the fields are open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. With the majestic Mt. Yatsugatake as a backdrop, it’s a picture-perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers alike.

To reach Akeno, take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Nirasaki Station, which takes about 2 hours. From there, a local bus ride of around 30 minutes will get you to the fields. It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool morning air. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water as the summer sun can be intense. There are food stalls selling local delicacies, perfect for a picnic amidst the flowers. Additionally, the area offers hiking trails and a chance to explore nearby parks, making it a great spot for a full-day outing.

Zama Sunflower Field (Kanagawa Prefecture)

A short train ride from Tokyo, Zama’s fields are famous for their Sunflower Festival held every August, usually from the first to the third week. This year, the festival runs from August 10 to 13. With over 550,000 sunflowers, the sight is truly spectacular. Entrance is free, and the fields are open from 9 AM to 4 PM. Apart from the flowers, the festival features local food stalls, live music, and family-friendly activities.

To visit Zama, take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Sobudai-mae Station, which takes about 50 minutes. From there, it’s a short walk or bus ride to the fields. The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the fields are quite extensive. The festival area often has various stalls where you can try local snacks, and there are shaded areas perfect for a picnic. Nearby parks also offer playgrounds and open spaces for children to enjoy.

Nogi Sunflower Festival (Tochigi Prefecture)

A little over an hour from Tokyo, the Nogi Sunflower Festival features about 200,000 sunflowers in full bloom across a large area. This year, the festival runs from July 20 to July 21. The fields are meticulously arranged, creating beautiful patterns that are a delight for photographers. Entrance is free, and the fields are open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the festival days when the blooms are at their peak.

To get to Nogi, take the JR Utsunomiya Line from Ueno Station to Nogi Station, which takes about 70 minutes. From the station, a short taxi ride or bus trip of around 10 minutes will get you to the fields. Early morning visits are recommended to catch the flowers at their freshest. In addition to the stunning sunflower fields near Tokyo, there are small local markets nearby where you can purchase fresh produce and sunflower-themed souvenirs. There are also picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by the vibrant flowers. The festival also includes events and activities such as a sunflower maze, local food stalls, and cultural performances, making it a fun outing for families and friends.

Kiyose Sunflower Festival (Tokyo Metropolitan Area)

For those who prefer staying within Tokyo, the Kiyose Sunflower Festival is a perfect choice. Held from August 6 to August 13, 2024, it showcases around 100,000 sunflowers, providing a stunning floral display without the need to travel far. The festival runs from 9 AM to 4 PM, with the last admission at 3:30 PM. Entrance is free, though reservations are required from August 10 to 13 to manage the crowd.

To get to Kiyose, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line from Ikebukuro Station to Kiyose Station, which takes about 25 minutes. From the station, it’s a short bus ride or a 15-minute walk to the festival site located in the farming area of Shimokiyoto 3-chome (including Ishii Farm and Kodera Farm). The best time to visit is early morning when the flowers are fresh and the temperatures are cooler. Bring along a camera to capture the sea of yellow blooms and enjoy some of the local street food available during the festival. There are also open spaces and parks nearby, making it an excellent spot for families to spend a leisurely day outdoors. Additionally, visitors can enjoy local food stalls and participate in various fun activities during the festival.

Sakura Furusato Square (Chiba Prefecture)

Just an hour’s drive from Tokyo, Sakura Furusato Square features about 15,000 “Vincent” sunflowers, named after the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, known for his passion for sunflowers. The picturesque Dutch windmill “Liefde” adds a charming European flair to your visit, creating a beautiful scene as the sunflower garden spreads across the shores of Lake Inban with the blue summer sky as a backdrop.

This year, the festival runs from Saturday, July 6th, 2024, to Sunday, July 21st, 2024, with event hours from 9 AM to 4 PM. Please note that from Monday, July 22nd, the sunflowers will not be available for viewing due to preparations for the Sakura Fireworks Festival 2024, celebrating the city’s 70th anniversary. Entrance is free, making it a great budget-friendly day trip option.

To reach Sakura Furusato Square, take the Keisei Main Line from Keisei Ueno Station to Keisei Sakura Station, which takes about 60 minutes. From there, a bus or taxi ride of around 15 minutes will get you to the fields. The best time to visit is early in the morning to enjoy the serene beauty of the fields with fewer crowds. The area around the windmill offers great photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour in the late afternoon. The park surrounding these sunflower fields near Tokyo is perfect for a picnic, and there are also small cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal. Additionally, the city regularly updates the blooming status of the sunflowers, ensuring visitors catch them at their best.

Capture the Magic of Summer With A Visit to Sunflower Fields Near Tokyo

There’s something truly enchanting about strolling through vast fields of sunflowers, each bloom turning its face to the sun, radiating warmth and joy. Near Tokyo, these golden treasures await discovery, offering a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Picture yourself surrounded by vibrant yellows, with the soft hum of bees and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. These sunflower fields near Tokyo are a testament to the beauty and serenity that summer in Japan has to offer. Let these fields become a part of your summer story, filling your days with color and your memories with sunshine. 🌻