Not Just Cherry Blossoms! 4 Parks for Capturing Stunning Floral Displays

Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park was developed on the former site of the "International Garden and Greenery Exposition " held in 1990. Today, it remains a green oasis in the city, filled with flowers and trees. Within the vast grounds are facilities that hark back to the Expo, including the Sakuya Konohana Kan conservatory, which houses plants from around the world, and the International Garden, where visitors can see recreations of gardens from various countries.

One of the most popular areas is Windmill Hill, where colorful flowers such as tulips, sunflowers, and cosmos bloom each season. In spring, especially in peak season from April to May, the hillside is covered with blue nemophilas that seem to blend into the sky. Try taking a low-angle shot that captures both the flowers and the sky in harmony, or a portrait with the windmill and nemophilas in the background for a storybook-like photo.

The park also features a spacious lawn and barbecue area, making it the perfect spot for families and group outings.

Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park, developed on the grounds of the 1970 Japan World Exposition, covers 260 hectares and is one of Kansai’s largest parks. A highlight is the nemophila field, where around 36,000 plants bloom from early April to early May, creating a brilliant blue carpet that seems to join with the sky.

From late March to late April every year, cherry blossoms, tulips, and poppies also fill the park with color. A festival is held at the same time, giving the lively atmosphere of a flower expo.

The park also features attractions that can be enjoyed year-round, including the Tower of the Sun by Taro Okamoto, the EXPO ’70 Pavilion which displays archival exhibits from the Expo, and learning facilities for observing nature.

Nishiyama Park in Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture, is one of the best-known azalea spots along the Sea of Japan. The park shows a different face each season, with about 1,000 cherry trees in full bloom during spring and 1,600 maples coloring the area with warm hues in autumn. In winter, the park is adorned with traditional yukitsuri tree supports that add to the snow-covered scenery.

One of the best times to visit is in early May when around 50,000 azalea bushes bloom, painting the park in shades of red and pale pink. Photos taken from a high vantage point show the flowers spread out like an endless carpet. Around the same time, the Sabae Azalea Festival is also held, filling the park with food stalls and stage performances. The festive and colorful atmosphere created by the crowd and flowers is perfect for capturing memorable photos.

The park also has a zoo, famous for its red pandas, and a peaceful Japanese garden, offering more to enjoy beyond the flowers.

Anan Seibu Park in Tokushima Prefecture is a nature-rich park designed along a hillside. With good views and plenty of playground equipment, it’s a popular destination for families.

From spring to summer, fresh greenery and seasonal flowers brighten up the park. A spectacle not to be missed comes during the rainy season, when hydrangeas bloom from mid-June to early July. The sight of large clusters of blue hydrangea blossoms covering the hillside creates a refreshing view, like looking at a cool sea of flowers.

A telephoto lens used from afar can capture the hillside landscape in dramatic scale, while a close-up shot of the dewy hydrangea petals creates a delicate impression. This is a lesser-known but enchanting location that draws visitors into a dreamlike world.

These parks that shine in every season through their floral views are perfect places to create travel memories through photography. Why not take your camera and capture the floral wonders of Japan by visiting them?

“Worth the Visit! My Favorite KANSAI Photo Contest” was organized by the EXPO2025KANSAI Tourism Council in collaboration with Tokyo Camera Club. 14 winning photos were selected by region from countless submissions on social media between April 21 and June 30, 2025. Each winner captures the unique charms of Kansai in their own way.

When you look at the landscapes captured in these images, you may find yourself wanting to visit the locations in person. Find your favorite photos and then set out to see them with your own eyes and camera!