Spring Sightseeing in Miyazaki Prefecture | Tropical Scenery Colored by Flowers

Spring in Miyazaki is a richly colorful season when not only cherry blossoms but a variety of flowers—rape blossoms, poppies, azaleas, and more—bloom in succession, competing with one another. Thanks to the mild tropical climate, feeling the arrival of spring a step earlier than the main island of Honshu is a charm unique to Miyazaki. Flower fields blooming profusely across vast highlands and flower-lined roads stretching along the coast are all spectacular scenes you'll want to capture in photos.

The Spectacular Poppy Fields of Ikoma Highland

Representing spring in Miyazaki is Ikoma Highland in Kobayashi City. On the vast highland with the Kirishima mountain range as a backdrop, in spring about one million poppies are said to bloom in profusion, dyeing the entire hill red, pink, and white. The contrast between the carpet of flowers spreading across the gentle slope and the majestic mountain range is overwhelming. In autumn cosmos also bloom, making it a popular flower spot that changes its expression with each season.

Touring Famous Spots for Cherry Blossoms and Rape Blossoms

Famous cherry blossom spots are also scattered throughout Miyazaki Prefecture. At the Saitobaru Burial Mounds, cherry blossoms and rape blossoms bloom at the same time, and you can enjoy the scenery of the vast burial mound group dyed pink and yellow. The flowers blooming on the hilly land where you feel ancient romance are a spring landscape unique to Miyazaki. There are also many spots you can tour while driving, such as the rows of cherry trees at Mochio Park and the flower tunnels along the highways.

Enjoying the Tropical Sea and Flowers

Miyazaki is charming not only for flowers but also for its mild seaside scenery. Driving along the Nichinan coast, lined with Aoshima and rows of phoenix palms, you'll be wrapped in a tropical sense of openness. Touring flower spots together with the coastline in the pleasant warmth of spring lets you fully enjoy Miyazaki's nature. Local seasonal delicacies and fruits such as mango also add color to the joys of travel.

Best Season and Access

For Miyazaki's spring flowers, cherry blossoms are at their best from late March to early April, and the poppies of Ikoma Highland reach their peak from mid-April to early May. For access, heading to each area by car from Miyazaki Airport is convenient, and Ikoma Highland is just a short drive from the Kobayashi Interchange. Since public transport access to flower spots is limited, using a rental car is recommended. Flower touring that makes use of the mild climate is popular as a staple of spring travel in Miyazaki.