When thinking of summer, a vast field of sunflowers blooming under a clear blue sky often comes to mind. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in such breathtaking scenery, the Akeno Sunflower Festival in Chikusei City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is the perfect event for you. Featuring approximately one million double sunflowers, this festival offers a truly spectacular sight. In this article, we will introduce the highlights of the Akeno Sunflower Festival, access information, and event details.
What is the Akeno Sunflower Festival?
Held in Chikusei City, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Akeno Sunflower Festival is a beloved summer tradition attracting numerous visitors each year. The sight of one million sunflowers in full bloom creates a stunning golden carpet, leaving visitors in awe as if they have stepped into a scene from a movie.
The main attraction of this festival is the double sunflower. Unlike regular sunflowers, these have more petals, creating a lush and voluminous appearance. Their unique and luxurious bloom makes them particularly photogenic, allowing visitors to capture vibrant and stunning images.
Additionally, the backdrop of the sunflower fields features Mount Tsukuba, making it an ideal location for breathtaking photography. The majestic view of Mount Tsukuba combined with the vibrant yellow sunflowers creates a picturesque harmony. Especially during sunset, the contrast between the orange-hued sky and the golden sunflowers produces a magical and romantic atmosphere.
The festival also includes an educational corner where visitors can learn interesting facts about sunflowers. This makes it an enjoyable experience not only for nature lovers but also for families and children, as they can discover the growth process and ecological characteristics of these beautiful flowers while admiring the breathtaking scenery.
Festival Highlights
1. Expansive Sunflower Fields
The most significant attraction of the Akeno Sunflower Festival is undoubtedly the vast field of one million blooming sunflowers. The sight of countless sunflowers swaying under the sunlight offers an unforgettable summer spectacle. This destination is popular not only among photography enthusiasts but also among families with children.
2. A Stunning Collaboration with Mount Tsukuba
The sunflower fields are set against the majestic backdrop of Mount Tsukuba. The contrast between the blue sky, the golden sunflowers, and the lush green mountain is simply mesmerizing. Early morning and late afternoon provide especially magical lighting conditions, enhancing the scenery’s beauty.
3. Sunflower Cutting Garden
Visitors can do more than just admire the sunflowers; they can also cut and take home their favorite blooms.
- Price: 300 yen for 5 sunflowers
- Experience: Choose and take home beautiful sunflowers to bring summer vibes into your home.
4. Cute Wrapping Corner
Sunflowers purchased at the cutting garden can be wrapped beautifully at the festival’s wrapping corner.
- Price: 100 yen
- Perfect for: Gifts and souvenirs with an adorable arrangement.
5. Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots
The festival features multiple photo spots within the sunflower fields. Must-visit attractions include the heart-shaped sunflower arch and the panoramic view from the observation deck, which provide the perfect settings for stunning social media pictures.
Event Details
Location: Akeno Sunflower Fields, Chikusei City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Event Period: Saturday, August 23 – Sunday, August 31, 2025
This festival lasts for only nine days, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly!
How to Get There
By Train
- Shuttle buses are available from JR Mito Line Shimodate Station (South Exit).
- Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Fare: 200 yen
By Car
- From Kita-Kantō Expressway Chikusei IC: About 20 minutes
Free Shuttle Bus
- A free shuttle bus runs within the event venue.
- Operating hours: 9:10 AM – 4:20 PM (departing every 20 minutes)
Chikusei City Wide-Area Bus
- Regular buses are available, operating independently of the festival period.
Parking
- Free parking is available near the western waterway of the venue.
Preparation and Essential Items
To make the most of the Akeno Sunflower Festival, consider bringing the following items:
- Sun protection gear (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Drinks (stay hydrated to prevent heatstroke!)
- Comfortable shoes (sneakers recommended for walking in the fields)
- Camera or smartphone (to capture picturesque landscapes)
- Small change (for the cutting garden and wrapping corner)
Conclusion
The Akeno Sunflower Festival is the perfect event for creating unforgettable summer memories. Whether taking beautiful photos against the sunflower backdrop, enjoying a leisurely walk, or bringing home fresh-cut sunflowers, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this spectacular event. The breathtaking view of Mount Tsukuba combined with the vibrant sunflower fields is a sight to behold.
Since this festival is held for only nine days, don’t miss your chance to visit. Gather your family and friends, and immerse yourself in the beauty of summer at the Akeno Sunflower Festival!
Related posts:
“Explore Awaji Island: Top Attractions, Gourmet Delights, and Souvenirs in Hyogo”
Kagoshima’s World Natural Heritage: Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage in Japan
Discover the Beauty of Cherry Blossom Trees at a Glance: Hitome Senbonzakura in Japan
Zao’s Snow Monsters: A Winter Wonderland of Ice and Snow