A Relay of Blooms: Flowers of Early Spring
The park’s diverse flora creates a stunning “flower relay,” with different species blooming in succession, each signaling the end of winter and the arrival of spring. It’s truly a testament to nature’s resilience, as these vibrant blooms emerge even before winter’s full retreat.
Wax Plum (Rōbai)
Known for their waxy, translucent yellow petals, Wax Plums emit a sweet fragrance that fills the air. These trees, reaching about 2 meters in height, are a magnificent sight against a clear blue sky. Visitors can also find special commentary boards installed to enhance their experience. The best viewing period is from early to late February at Chikufūan, where approximately 40 trees are in bloom. For an even more relaxing experience, tea ceremonies are scheduled at Chikufūan on February 8th and 22nd. More details can be found here: Experience the Tea Ceremony.
Japanese Daffodil (Nihonzuisen)
These elegant white flowers with their upright leaves bring a sense of purity to the lingering chill of early spring. Found in the bright woodlands of Ryuzu-no-Mori, their sweet scent is best enjoyed up close. Approximately 20,000 Japanese Daffodils are expected to be at their peak from mid-February to early March.
Japanese Apricot (Ume)
Along the “Ume no Michi” (Plum Path) adjacent to Hana Meguri no Oka, red Japanese Apricot blossoms begin to appear, followed slightly later by white varieties. Their sweet fragrance, carried on the breeze, is a delightful sensory experience. With 120 trees, the best viewing is from late February to mid-March. A dog run is conveniently located nearby for those visiting with pets.
Christmas Rose
Despite its name, the Christmas Rose is not a rose but a member of the buttercup family, prized for its diverse colors and shapes, especially its ability to bloom in the cooler months. In Sanuki Mannou National Park, approximately 3,000 plants can be admired in their natural forest setting within Ryuzu-no-Mori. This area is highly recommended, as it also features smaller numbers of snowdrops and snowflakes, offering a charming, rustic display of early spring flora.
Engaging Events to Enhance Your Flower Journey
To make the “Early Spring Festa” even more interactive, the park is hosting two special events from February 7th to March 1st, available on both weekdays and weekends.
Digital Stamp Rally: Early Spring Flower Tour
Embark on a delightful digital stamp rally by scanning QR codes at various blooming flower spots. Collect stamps to receive an original park postcard as a prize! This engaging activity makes exploring the early spring flowers even more fun. Please note that the number and type of stamp spots may change based on flowering conditions. Participation is free and requires a smartphone with a camera function. A special page for the stamp rally is available (smartphone only): Digital Stamp Rally Special Page.
Self-Guided Flower Tour
Informative self-guide signboards, featuring fun facts and insights, are installed at the Wax Plum, Christmas Rose, and Japanese Daffodil planting areas. These signs enrich your stroll through the park, offering a deeper understanding of the early spring blossoms. For information on other events, please visit: Park Events Page.
About Sanuki Mannou National Park
Sanuki Mannou National Park, the only national park in Shikoku, spans 350 hectares. Located on a hilly terrain overlooking Mannō Pond, one of Japan’s largest agricultural reservoirs, the park’s theme is “Interaction with humans, interaction with nature and the universe.” It leverages the rich natural environment of Mannō Pond and the cultural heritage of Shikoku, the birthplace of Kūkai. Development began in 1984, with the park fully opening in April 2013.
Park Information:
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Location: 4243-12 Yoshino, Mannō-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa 766-0023
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Opening Hours (November 1st – February End): 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Hours vary by season. Check here for details.)
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Closed: Every Tuesday (exceptions apply for holidays. Check the park website for details.)
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Admission: Adults (15+) 450 yen, Seniors (65+) 210 yen, Children (Junior High and younger) Free. (For group rates, exemptions, and annual passes, see here.)
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Access: Detailed access information is available here.
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By Car: Approx. 35 min from Seto-Chuo Expressway Sakaide I.C. (from Hiroshima/Okayama); Approx. 25 min from Takamatsu Expressway Zentsuji I.C. (from Ehime/Kochi); Approx. 40 min from Tokushima Expressway Mima I.C. (from Tokushima).
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By Train: Approx. 15 min by taxi from JR Kotohira Station or Kotoden Kotohira Station / Okada Station.
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Contact: Mannou Park Management Joint Venture (Mannou Park Management Center) TEL: 0877-79-1700
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Official Website: https://sanukimannopark.jp/
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Official SNS:
This “Early Spring Festa” offers a perfect opportunity to experience the subtle beauty of Japan’s changing seasons. For those seeking an authentic encounter with Japanese nature and a moment of peaceful rejuvenation, Sanuki Mannou National Park provides a memorable destination. The blend of vibrant blooms and interactive events ensures that every visit is a unique journey into the heart of spring, inviting visitors from around the world to discover the captivating charm of Kagawa Prefecture. It’s a gentle reminder that even the smallest signs of spring can hold immense beauty, a concept deeply cherished in Japanese culture.
