The park features nine different varieties of Phlox subulata, including 'Emerald Cushion' and 'Autumn Rose'.
The planting pattern is designed to look like a woven textile, inspired by the region's historical connection to silk production.
The hill overlooks the city of Chichibu, with the jagged silhouette of Mount Buko providing a prominent backdrop.
The name 'Shibazakura' translates literally to 'lawn cherry blossom' due to the flower's resemblance to sakura petals.
The maintenance of the hillside involves strict preservation efforts to prevent soil erosion while supporting the dense carpet of ground cover.
The site is a major destination for 'hanami' specifically focused on ground-covering flowers rather than tree-borne blossoms.
Shibazakura no Oka is a 17,600-square-meter hillside within Hitsujiyama Park featuring one of the largest concentrations of moss phlox in the Kanto region. The site displays approximately 400,000 individual plants representing nine distinct varieties of shibazakura, creating a multi-colored floral mosaic of white, pink, and purple. The design utilizes the natural topography of the hill, which sits at the base of Mount Buko. The park is specifically curated for bloom-time viewing and integrates walking paths throughout the planted zones. During the peak blooming season, the site hosts a market area featuring local Chichibu agricultural products and regional crafts. The park remains a public green space throughout the year, though its primary attraction is the ephemeral spring display.
The upper observation platform which offers a wide-angle view of the full color gradient against Mount Buko.
Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes as the park consists of sloped pathways and uneven terrain.
Check local bloom forecasts online before traveling, as peak conditions vary by up to a week depending on spring temperatures.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is minimal natural shade on the hillside itself.
Visiting on weekends during the height of the bloom if you dislike heavy crowds.
Park access is free year-round, but the specific Shibazakura area collects an admission fee during the mid-spring blooming period.
Stay strictly on designated walking paths; do not step into the flower beds to prevent plant damage.
