The "Fuji Shibazakura Festival", where you can enjoy around 500,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) plants with Mt. Fuji as a stunning backdrop, is being held from April 12 (Sat) to May 25 (Sun), 2025. The catchphrase for this year is "In an instant, spring colors will splash." The photo spots perfect for social media and the gourmet offerings have been further enhanced compared to last year. Additionally, as a new initiative, dogs on leashes are now allowed entry on weekdays, evolving the event into one that the whole family can enjoy. Including the "Peter Rabbit™ English Garden," which opened on the same day, the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival" is packed with attractions. We'll deliver plenty of information about the charms of this must-see event!
Related article 👉[Complete Guide] 20 Best Shibazakura Spots Across Japan, Including Mt. Fuji and Chichibu
*When you purchase or make reservations for products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
What is the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival"? When did it begin?
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival, which began in 2002 at the foot of Mt. Fuji in Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, has become a spring tradition now in its 18th year. Initially started for the purpose of regional revitalization and tourism promotion, it has now become a representative spring flower event in Japan, attracting many tourists from both within the country and abroad.
The venue, Fuji Motosuko Resort, is located near Lake Motosuko, known as a scenic spot for views of Mt. Fuji. Approximately 500,000 shibazakura plants of 7 varieties are planted across a vast area of about 1.5 hectares. The sight of pink, white, light red, and purple shibazakura creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji is truly breathtaking.
Joining a Tour is Highly Recommended for the Fuji Shibazakura Festival!
Participating in a tour is recommended for visiting the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival." Numerous day trips are available from major cities such as Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, and these tours are very popular among foreign tourists. The main benefits of joining a tour are as follows:
- No language concerns: Even if you don't understand Japanese, you can enjoy the experience worry-free as many tours provide foreign language-speaking guides.
- Efficient sightseeing: There's no need to arrange car rentals or drive yourself. You can move directly to the venue, making effective use of your limited travel time.
- Additional tourist spots: Many tours include visits to other attractive sightseeing locations in the area, such as the 5th station of Mt. Fuji or the Fuji Five Lakes, in addition to the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival."
- Easy to book: Many tours can be easily reserved online, even from outside Japan.
Furthermore, tours often include round-trip transportation costs and admission fees, making it easier to manage your travel budget. For those who want to enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and shibazakura while experiencing the Japanese spring, we highly recommend considering participation in a tour.
【kkday】👉Fuji Shibazakura Festival Direct Bus with Admission Ticket from Tokyo & Kawaguchiko
【kkday】👉Enjoy Fuji Shibazakura Festival 2023 1 Day Bus Tour from Nagoya
Introducing Photogenic Photo Spots at the 2025 Fuji Shibazakura Festival!
On the day of my visit, unfortunately, the sky was cloudy... While I couldn't enjoy the collaboration with Mt. Fuji, I was still able to fully appreciate the beauty of the shibazakura. First, let me introduce the four photogenic spots!
"Mt. Fuji Object" – Perfect for Posing Side by Side
This newly added photo spot is said to be the most popular among group visitors. Behind the object, there is a sidewalk, allowing you to walk around and strike various poses. If the weather is clear, it’s the perfect spot to capture both the collaboration of Mt. Fuji and the shibazakura in one shot.
The “Loving Heart Bench” – A Popular Spot for Couples
This is also a newly established photo spot this year. The cute heart-shaped bench is very popular among couples! Of course, it's not just for couples; friends and parents with children can be seen sitting here too. It was heartwarming to see families sitting with their small children between them.
Still a Hit Since 2024 – “A Small Boat Sailing on a Sea of Pink”
This little boat spot has remained popular since 2024. You can take dreamy photos that look as if you're sailing across a pink-colored sea. There is a remote-controlled camera set up in front of the boat, so you don’t need someone to take the photo for you. Hop on the boat with peace of mind and enjoy the moment!
“The Yellow Door of Happiness” – Adorable with Its Colorful Contrast
Was this door installed by a certain cat-shaped robot? You can take photos that look as if you've wandered into a fantasy world, with a pink carpet of flowers stretching out beyond the door.
Other Photo Spots for Capturing Breathtaking Views
In addition to the photo spots where the objects are placed, there are even more several other attractive photo points at the venue. Especially, the panorama deck offered a breathtaking view of the entire area!
"Panorama Deck" with a Entire View of the Venue
The panorama deck, located at the farthest point of the venue, is a breathtaking spot where you can enjoy the entire beautiful view of "Fuji Shibazakura Festival."
Climbing up to the panorama deck via stairs. The view, accompanied by a pleasant breeze, felt even more beautiful!
For a Shot with Mt. Fuji in the Background, Head to "Ryujin Pond"
The area around Ryujin Pond, located at the center of the venue, is also a breathtaking spot. On a clear day, you can capture a photo with Mt. Fuji, Ryujin Pond, and the shibazakura all as the perfect backdrop!
There is also a smartphone stand like the one in the photo, making it easier to take selfies.
Pink Mt. Fuji – "Mini Shibazakura Fuji"
Although I couldn't see the real Mt. Fuji, there was a cute miniature Mt. Fuji made out of shibazakura.
Adorable Color Scheme: "Checkered Shibazakura"
Not just an expanse of pink, but there were also areas designed in a checkered pattern like this. It is said that the flowers are planted in such a way that the green leaves can be enjoyed even after the blooming season.
Weekdays Only: Leash Entry for Dogs Now Allowed!
Starting in 2025, the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival" has become an even more attractive event for dog lovers! Leash entry for dogs is now allowed on weekdays (excluding busy times). Throughout the venue, it was delightful to see dogs here and there, with families enjoying their time together.
Additionally, two dedicated photo spots for dogs have been set up!
Dog Photo Spot ① "Bicycle"
This photo spot features an adorable bicycle decorated with flowers. It looks like a scene straight out of a fairy tale, perfect for capturing whimsical photos.
Dog Photo Spot ② "Bench"
At this spot, with a small, cute bench set up, it's recommended to have your dog sit for a charming photo.
"Peter Rabbit™ English Garden" Now Open for Business
In conjunction with the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival," the "Peter Rabbit™ English Garden" has also opened for the season. The two areas are freely accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy both the beauty of the shibazakura and the world of Peter Rabbit™ at the same time.
"Peter Rabbit™ English Garden" – Enjoy Around 300 Varieties of Flowers
This is an authentic English garden designed by British garden designer Mark Chapman. Around 300 varieties of plants are cultivated, offering a variety of flowers to enjoy from spring through autumn.
There is also a hidden photo spot where the pond in the garden is heart-shaped! Be sure not to miss it!
Only During This Period! "Peter Rabbit™ AR Photo"
There are two AR photo spots set up within the venue.
When you scan the QR code, the adorable Peter Rabbit™ will appear on your smartphone screen. This limited-time feature allows you to take photos of the collaboration between the moss phlox and Peter Rabbit™!
Recreating the World of the Storybook! "Peter Rabbit™ Story Trail"
An outdoor gallery scattered with "fragments of stories" from the picture book series.
Impressive scenes from the picture books are brought to life, allowing you to experience the feeling of stepping into the world of the story. There's also the fun of searching for your favorite scenes. Starting in 2025, the popular "Tom Kitten" will also make an appearance!
Café Offering Goods
The café, where a cute Peter Rabbit™ welcomes you, offers menus inspired by scenes and motifs from the works.
This is "Jemima's Egg Hamburger," inspired by Jemima Puddle-Duck's nesting. The juicy hamburger pairs perfectly with demi-glace sauce, and the colorful vegetables on the side add to the appeal.
Other offerings include takeout menus like scones and merchandise such as Peter Rabbit™-designed cups and plates, making souvenir shopping enjoyable.
Gourmet Delights at the "Umaimon Gourmet Area"
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Within the venue, the "Umaimon Gourmet Area" features numerous food trucks offering a variety of local specialties. Visitors can enjoy Shizuoka's famous Fujinomiya yakisoba, kamaboko, and other visually appealing takeout gourmet foods.
Fujiyama Honey Castella (Skewer)
These uniquely shaped castella cakes, modeled after Mt. Fuji, are perfect for the Fuji Shibazakura Festival. The skewered style is adorable and highly photogenic. Available in three flavors: sakura, strawberry, and matcha. The most popular is the sakura flavor. The pink flakes on top not only add visual appeal but also provide a delightful crunch.
Mt. Fuji Lava Fried Chicken
This strikingly black fried chicken, named "Mt. Fuji Lava Fried Chicken," is impactful. Despite its appearance, it tastes like delicious fried chicken with a crispy coating.
Kikyo Shingen Mochi Soft Serve
A must-try in Shizuoka! This soft serve ice cream features the famous Shingen Mochi. The combination of smooth ice cream with brown sugar syrup and soybean flour is undeniably delicious. The addition of authentic Kikyo Shingen Mochi makes it a doubly delightful treat.
Venue-Exclusive Products and Mt. Fuji Goods at the Shop & Gallery
At the shop & gallery in the venue, products with the motifs of "Shibazakura" and "Mt. Fuji" were sold, which are perfect for travel souvenirs! Venue-exclusive items are particularly special and highly recommended.
Fujiyama Cookies Mt. Fuji Can (Spring 2025)
A cute cookie tin containing seven Mt. Fuji-shaped cookies. You can enjoy six different flavors: sakura, vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, black tea, and matcha. The tin includes two sakura-flavored cookies, themed after the shibazakura. The adorable pink tin makes for a perfect souvenir that’s sure to delight.
Fuji Shibazakura Festival Original Bookmarker
Beautiful book marker in stained glass style. A three-piece set of Mt. Fuji, Ryujin Pond, and Shibazakura is drawn, and it is an item that you can take home with the memories of your trip.
Fuji Shibazakura Limited-Edition Kikyo Shingen Mochi
The classic Shingen Mochi is available in a limited-edition version exclusive to the Fuji Shibazakura Festival. The special pink packaging, inspired by shibazakura adds a unique and festive touch.
Venue-Exclusive Gacha Capsules
Exclusive capsule toys available only at the venue. Two types are available: acrylic stands and acrylic keychains. Both showcase a beautiful collaboration between Mt. Fuji and shibazakura.
Peter Rabbit ™ Merchandise
Of course, one corner of the shop is dedicated to Peter Rabbit™ goods.
An adjoining gallery also hosts exhibitions, adding another layer of enjoyment to your visit.
Other Items
In addition to the above, the shop also offers a variety of products such as Mt. Fuji-themed sweets, Shizuoka sake, and ice cream.
Even familiar snacks take on new charm when they feature Mt. Fuji motifs—you just can’t resist picking them up!
Support for Foreign Tourists
Despite the unfortunate weather on the day of reporting, many tour buses arrived, and the venue bustled with tourists from Japan and abroad. A particularly high number of overseas visitors were seen, highlighting the festival’s growing international popularity. Pamphlets were available in Japanese, English, and Chinese.
In addition, cashless payment is possible at all locations, including shops inside the venue as well as food trucks outside. It is attractive that you can shop without worrying about whether you have Japan yen.
Fuji Shibazakura Festival 2025, the breathtaking collaboration of Mt.Fuji and shibazakura will be held until May 25. Why not take this chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan?
- Event Period: April 12 (Sat) – May 25 (Sun), 2025
- Business hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Admission fee: Adults (junior high school students and above): ¥1,000–¥1,300, Children (age 3 and above): ¥500–¥700 *Prices vary depending on the time period
- Venue: Lake Motosu 212, Fujikawaguchiko-cho, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture (Fuji Motosuko Resort)
Comments