I’ve selected six places in Kagawa, which have sense of paradise! I definitely suggest you to visit those places during spring time. They may not be famous tourist spots, but I believe they are worth boasting about to the world. A must-see for all tourists!
Canola flower fields in “Mannou Town Sunflower Village” (Mannou Town)
Every summer, “Himawari no Sato Mannou” becomes a famous sunflower spot. However, in spring, you can enjoy fields of Canola flowers across the entire area. Impressively, as much as 18 hectares of sunflower fields transform into expansive Canola flower fields!!
Last year, the peak viewing period was around March 20th. There are also interesting photo opportunities with things like Doraemon’s “Anywhere Door” and witch’s brooms scattered around the area.
Mt. Shiunde (Mitoyo City)
The view of the Seto Inland Sea from Shiudeyama, located on the Shonai Peninsula in Mitoyo City, is so breathtaking that I personally believe it could be considered one of Japan’s top three scenic views. The sight of numerous islands through blooming hydrangeas in June forms an exquisite arrangement, and I visit almost every year.
Also, during the cherry blossom season at the end of March to early April, you can enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms with the Seto Inland Sea. It’s truly beautiful!
During the cherry blossom season, to avoid crowds, it operates on a reservation basis (with a fee). For more details, please check the Sanuki City Tourism Exchange Bureau’s website.
Shishijima (Mitoyo City)
Shishijima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Mitoyo City, comes to life every spring with the meticulously cultivated “Flower Fields in the Sky” by a former flower farmer and her family living on the island. This breathtaking flower garden becomes a sight to behold, attracting many visitors. The scene is truly a paradise on Earth! After experiencing the extraordinary journey of reaching the island by boat, the overwhelmingly beautiful flower fields add an extra layer to that feeling.
April is the best season to visit Shishijima! Take a regular ferry from Miyanoshita Port in Mitoyo City, Tadotsu-cho, for about 20 minutes. Since the number of departures is limited, and the regular ferry has a capacity of 70 people, it’s possible to miss it if you go at the last minute. Make sure to arrive at least 20-30 minutes early to secure your spot in line.
Flower Park Urashima (Mitoyo City)
Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, Flower Park Urajima in Mitoyo City features a beautiful Margaret field that reaches its peak bloom from late April to mid-May. Descending from the elevated parking area, it feels like walking on a carpet of flowers. Gazing at the charming Margaret flowers, one can’t help but feel a sense of tranquility.
As usual, it is likely that reservations will be required this year as well. Be sure to check the website of the Mitoyo City Tourism and Exchange Bureau for more information.
Megijima (Takamatsu City)
A familiar island in the Seto Inland Sea for the residents of Takamatsu, Megijima. Perhaps due to its accessibility with a 20-minute ferry ride from Takamatsu Port, the island’s beauty might be overshadowed. However, when I, originally from Kansai, first visited this island after relocating to Takamatsu, I was so moved that I felt fortunate to live in Takamatsu just because of Megijima.
The beauty of the sea is unparalleled. Especially on sunny days from April to May, the colors are at their most stunning, making it the most beautiful time of the year.
If you spend time there in a daze, I’m confident you could stay there for hours. It’s truly a paradise right nearby.
Shibazakura Fuji (Higashikagawa City)
Shibazakura Fuji is located about 1 km south of Shirocho in Tokushima City, turning south from National Route 11. It’s a private park where an individual has been continuously planting moss phlox on the slope of the mountain, and currently, vibrant moss phlox bloom every year in mid-April. But, this is not a small-scale individual effort! Around mid-April, the spacious grounds are adorned with bright white, light purple, light pink, and deep pink moss phlox, creating a spectacular carpet of flowers.
Many residents of Kagawa may not be aware of this place. Once you visit, you’ll truly be impressed!