Hitsujiyama Park Overview
Tucked into the hills of Chichibu city in Saitama Prefecture, about 80 kilometers northwest of Tokyo, Hitsujiyama Park is one of the most beloved spring destinations in the Kanto region. The park takes its name — “Sheep Mountain Park” — from a former wool-producing sheep farm that once operated on the site. A small city-run ranch with sheep remains in the park today as a nod to that heritage.
While the park offers walking trails, an observation deck, a children’s athletic area and facilities including the Mt. Buko Museum and Yamato Art Museum, its main draw is the spectacular Shibazakura Hill. Each spring, the gently sloping hillside is carpeted in over 400,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) plants across 17,600 square meters, blooming in vivid shades of pink, white and purple. The flowers are arranged in deliberate patterns — some echoing the designs of the famous Chichibu Night Festival floats — set against the striking silhouette of Mt. Buko in the background. The result is one of the most photogenic scenes in all of Saitama Prefecture.
Beyond the shibazakura, the park also features plum blossoms, cherry blossoms and tulips throughout spring, making it a rewarding destination even outside the main flowering window.
Best Times To Visit Hitsujiyama Park
The undisputed peak season is mid-April to early May, when the shibazakura are in full bloom. This period coincides with the annual Chichibu Shibazakura Festival, during which local food stalls, markets and community events bring extra energy to the park. The surrounding Chichibu Marche market along the city’s main road runs concurrently and is well worth a visit.
Golden Week (late April to early May) is the busiest period; visiting on a weekday in mid-April is ideal for smaller crowds while still catching the blooms. In early April, cherry blossoms are also on display, offering a double flowering experience.
Outside of spring, Hitsujiyama Park is open year-round and free to enter, making it a pleasant spot for a casual stroll at any time of year.