The Kasama Azalea Festival is an annual event held in Ibaraki Prefecture, and it dates back to the late 1960s. The residents of the city were determined to plant as many azalea bushes as there were residents – an inspired effort – and there are around 8500 of them covering approximately seven hectares to enjoy. There are different azalea types, too, including the likes of Kirishima, Hinode, Kurume, and Yamatsutsuji variants.
There is an admission fee to enjoy the flowers, which differs depending on how they're looking. Before the peak, adult admission is ¥300, but when the flowers are at their best this increases to ¥500. Updates about the flowering status are posted on the official event website.
Getting there
Kasama Azalea Park is located either a 5 minute ride on the Kasama Loop Bus or 25 minutes on foot from Kasama Station, which is served by the JR Mito Line.
For those who opt to drive, the park is a 15 minute drive from Kasama-Nishi IC on the Kita-Kanto Expressway, or a 20 minute drive from Iwama IC on the Joban Expressway.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
