Hanami at Kagamiyama Park and Ikoi no Mori Park in the Saijo Area of Higashihiroshima!

2024/08/02 15:31

Higashihiroshima is dotted with many famous cherry blossom spots.

 

In this article, we will introduce two recommended hanami spots in the "Saijo" area of Higashihiroshima: "Kagamiyama Park" and "Ikoi no Mori Park." These places are enjoyable for strolling while viewing the cherry blossoms.

Kagamiyama Park | A spot where you can view about 500 cherry trees of 30 varieties from the lawn plaza

What is Kagamiyama Park?

Kagamiyama Park is equipped with a beautiful pond, gentle hills and slopes, lawns, and playgrounds. It is a recreational spot in Higashihiroshima that is popular among many families. It is named after being at the foot of the nationally historic " Kagamiyama Castle Ruins."

Located along the boulevard that connects Saijo Station and Hiroshima University, Kagamiyama Park is also near major roads such as National Route 2, making it easily accessible from areas like Hiroshima City.

Cherry blossoms blooming in various parts of the park

During the hanami season, cherry blossoms bloom all over the park, attracting many visitors.

Even on the day of our visit, many families were there.

In the lawn plaza, you can spread out a leisure sheet and have a picnic, stroll with family, couples, or pets, or take commemorative photos with the cherry blossoms! It's an ideal spot for hanami (use of fire is prohibited).

　

We also took a photo of a friendly parent and child with the cherry blossoms at Kagamiyama Park. It's a great way to create wonderful memories of spring!

Various other delightful facilities and amenities!

In addition to benches, the park has covered rest areas.

You can rest safely during sudden rain or hot weather in summer.

A walking course is also laid out along the pond. You can enjoy walking, dog walking, or jogging while admiring the scenery.

There are three toilets installed throughout the park, which is also a pleasant point.

Parking at Kagamiyama Park

There are two parking lots in total. 

There is the first parking lot close to the park and the second parking lot, which can also accommodate buses, both of which are free.

　

The second parking lot is a bit further from the park than the first, but it has more parking spaces. During the hanami season, it gets particularly crowded, so it is recommended to come early. On the day we visited (a weekday afternoon), the parking lot was very crowded.

Detailed information about Kagamiyama Park

Address	2 Chome Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima City
Access	・About 10 minutes by route bus towards Hiroshima University from JR Saijo Station, get off at " Kagamiyama Park Entrance" ・About 20 minutes by car from Sanyo Expressway Saijo IC
Closed	None
Parking	220 spaces
Inquiries	Higashihiroshima City Urban Development Department Phone: 082-420-0955

Ikoi no Mori Park | A viewpoint where you can overlook the cityscape of Saijo and the cherry blossoms

What is Ikoi no Mori Park?

Ryuo Mountain, which retains the brewing water for sake production in Higashihiroshima and Saijo. The height to the top of the mountain is 575 meters. Ikoi no Mori Park, spread out at the foot of this Ryuo Mountain, includes a plaza, camping area, hiking trails, gardens, and spots for viewing autumn leaves and cherry blossoms.

Located about 5 minutes by car from the north exit of JR Saijo Station and about 10 minutes from the Sanyo Expressway "Saijo IC," it is also easily accessible from a wide area like Kagamiyama Park.

1500 cherry trees spreading at the foot of the mountain

First, head to the "Central Lawn Plaza."

You can have a picnic under the cherry trees, play with your pets, or enjoy reading or gaming in the shade. If possible, climb up the slope a bit and look down at the base.

You can see the townscape of Higashihiroshima above the cherry blossom trees, which is an overwhelming sight!

　

Going down a bit from the Central Lawn Plaza, there is a spacious "Multipurpose Plaza."

　

There are some areas with roofs and tables with chairs, so you can rest safely during sudden rain or hot weather.

Next, take a short walk into the mountain to reach the "Cherry Blossom Plaza."

The cherry blossoms are in full bloom on the small hill!

Cherry blossoms, weeping cherry trees, magnolias, and kobushi trees are blooming together, creating a beautiful scene! American sweetgums and autumn leaves are also planted, so you can enjoy the autumn foliage too.

　

The mountain path is well maintained for easy walking. It is recommended to wear walking shoes for a mountain hike!

This time we couldn't make it, but there is a spot called "Sakura no Mori" near the "First Observatory" at an altitude of 575 meters, which is about a 50-minute walk from the parking lot. Next year, we would like to visit this place.

Parking at Ikoi no Mori Park

There is a free parking lot for about 160 cars around the management office. The park is open from 9 am to 5 pm, so be careful.

　

Detailed information about Ikoi no Mori Park

Address	941-17 Saijocho Terazaki, Higashihiroshima City
Access	・About 10 minutes by car from Saijo IC ・About 25 minutes on foot from the north exit of Saijo Station
Opening hours	9：00～17：00
Closed	Wednesday (Thursday if it is a holiday)
Parking	160 spaces
Inquiries	Ikoi no Mori Park Management Office Phone: 082-422-0005