The wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park, especially the large wisteria that is over 160 years old, creates a spectacular space that is definitely worth seeing with your own eyes. In this article, we will introduce not only the charm of the internationally acclaimed wisteria, but also comprehensively provide information on access, sightseeing and gourmet information around Ashikaga. Please read to the end and use this as reference for your next trip.

Why is the wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park so famous?

World-class ratings recognized by CNN

One of the reasons Ashikaga Flower Park first attracted attention was when it was selected as one of the "Top 10 Dream Travel Destinations in the World" by the American CNN in 2014. It was recognized by overseas media as one of Japan's leading flower theme parks, and caused a great stir. With the increase in foreign tourists and the spread of the word on social media, its fame is now on a global scale. When we hear the word wisteria, we tend to associate it with a Japanese atmosphere, but its mysterious and elegant atmosphere fascinates people across borders.

The overwhelming scale of the 160-year-old wisteria

The biggest attraction of Ashikaga Flower Park is the "Giant Wisteria, which is over 160 years old." The trellis covers an area of approximately 1,000 square meters, and during the flowering season, countless flower clusters hang down, dyeing the entire area purple. In fact, this wisteria has not always been in the same place since the park first opened. In 1997, it was transplanted by Japan's first female arborist to facilitate a successful relocation following urban development. Watching the wisteria blooming majestically is a testament to not only the vitality of the tree, but also the passion and wisdom of the people who lived there.

The wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park is an attractive feature!

A moving experience created by the gradation of colors

Although they are all called wisteria, there are in fact several varieties that adorn the garden, including Pale Red Wisteria, Large Wisteria, White Wisteria, and Kibana Wisteria. Starting with a pale pink, the colors change to deep purple, white, and pale yellow, creating a beautiful palette created by nature. Each variety blooms at a slightly different time, so it's also appealing that you can encounter many different hues on a single visit. The soft colors of the pale red wisteria in particular seem even more delicate in early spring when it's still chilly, and when the colors change to the deep purple of the Large Wisteria, the garden is instantly enveloped in a gorgeous atmosphere.

A fantastical space to enjoy with multifaceted presentations

The garden features a variety of displays, including not only wisteria trellises, but also tunnel-like structures, areas that make use of the waterside, and nighttime illuminations. It is particularly impressive when the large purple wisteria is bathed in light at night, creating an even more dazzling world. The color temperature and placement of the lighting has been carefully considered, and the contrast between light and shadow has been skillfully designed, allowing you to experience a "fantasy space" that is completely different from daytime. It is also recommended to take your time to watch the changes from dusk to night.

The beauty of wisteria changes with each season

The gardens are decorated with the spring "Fuji no Hana Monogatari"

The "Fuji no Hana Monogatari - Wisteria Festival" held from mid-April to mid-May is the biggest event at Ashikaga Flower Park. With about 350 wisteria trees and 5,000 azaleas competing with each other, the park is filled with a festive feeling of spring. The highlight is the spectacular view of the 160-year-old wisteria. In addition, the area with its tunnels of pale red wisteria and white wisteria is very popular as a photogenic spot, even though it is crowded with many people. The entrance fee changes depending on the flowering situation, so it is up to you whether you want to aim for the full bloom or enjoy it a little earlier. Either way, the elegant fragrance of the wisteria tickles your nose and the time surrounded by the flowers is an exquisite moment.

A world of light depicted by winter illuminations

Ashikaga Flower Park is an enchanting sight even in winter. The "Garden of Light Flowers" takes place from late October to early February, where millions of LED bulbs transform the park into a sparkling world. Of particular note are the light displays that entwine the trellises. The illuminations themselves are arranged to give the impression of blooming flowers, creating a fantastical experience as if wisteria were in bloom even in winter. The beautiful scenery that will make you forget the cold of the night is sure to look great on social media.

Things to know before you go to Ashikaga Flower Park

Best time to see wisteria

The best time to see the wisteria is usually from late April to early May, but it is often affected by the weather. Be sure to check the flowering status on the official website or social media so you don't miss the best time to see it. Also, when it is in full bloom, it will be crowded even on weekdays. If possible, we recommend going early in the morning or just after the evening illuminations start. During peak seasons such as Golden Week, parking lots fill up quickly, so make good use of public transportation or check in advance for information on temporary parking lots.

Tips for avoiding crowds

- Aim for weekdays and nighttime

・Check the crowd forecast on the official website

・Use advance tickets and IC cards for smooth entry

Parking and access information

If you go by car, it is about 18 minutes from the Sano Fujioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway, or about 10 minutes from the Ashikaga IC on the Kita-Kanto Expressway. During peak seasons, a temporary parking lot is opened, with a total of 6,000 spaces available.

If you take the train, the closest station is Ashikaga Flower Park Station on the JR Ryomo Line, but even here the ticket gates can get crowded during peak hours, so it's a good idea to plan your visit with plenty of time. The garden is about a 3-minute walk from the station, so access is not bad.

The important thing is to prepare thoroughly in advance so that you can act calmly once you arrive at your destination.

Enjoy the surrounding area too! Sightseeing and gourmet food

Tour the historic Ashikaga School and the beautiful Bannaji Temple

When talking about Ashikaga city, you can't miss the "Ashikaga School" founded in the Kamakura period and the national treasure, Hōon-ji Temple. After enjoying the flowers at Ashikaga Flower Park, why not take a trip to explore history? Ashikaga School is said to be the oldest school in Japan, and its nostalgic appearance is impressive. Once you pass through the large mountain gate of Hōon-ji Temple, you will find yourself in the precincts, which are filled with a solemn atmosphere.

Local gourmet food around Ashikaga Flower Park

After enjoying the flowers and history, one important part of any trip is to fill your stomach. In the Ashikaga area, you'll find a variety of gourmet foods, including Tochigi specialties such as potato fries and Ashikaga shumai, as well as Japanese and Western-style restaurants that use local ingredients. For something a little different, we recommend the wisteria soft serve ice cream found inside Ashikaga Flower Park. With a refreshing taste reminiscent of the faint scent of wisteria flowers, it will gently soothe your tired body after walking. Enjoying these local delicacies will make your sightseeing trip even more exciting.

summary

Starting with the 160-year-old large wisteria tree, the colorful gradations of the wisteria, the diverse seasonal displays, and the winter illuminations, Ashikaga Flower Park is a spot full of charm all year round.

In particular, the impressiveness of the wisteria, which was selected as one of the "Top 10 Dream Travel Destinations in the World," is something that can only be experienced locally, and you will definitely be captivated by its spectacular beauty once you visit. Furthermore, by combining it with historical sites and local cuisine, you can expand your plans to enjoy the entire Ashikaga area.

Check the flowering situation and crowd forecast before you go, and prepare as early as possible to ensure a smooth and enjoyable wisteria viewing experience.

If you have time, we recommend experiencing both night and day views. It's a luxurious experience, like walking through a work of art woven with purple curtains.