Kyukamura Taishakkyo, a resort hotel located in Shobara City in northeastern Hiroshima Prefecture at the border with Okayama, Shimane, and Tottori, announces the upcoming arrival of late spring. The season brings a relay of precious wildflowers including Mansaku (witch hazel), which blooms before other plants, Setsubunso (spring ephemeral), known as the harbinger of spring, Fukujuso (adonis), said to bring happiness, and Katakuri (dogtooth violet) blooming along Lake Shinryu's shores.
Mansaku (Witch Hazel)
Blooming from mid-February to early March, this variety can be seen in the grounds of Kyukamura Taishakkyo. This is Atesu Mansaku, a species discovered in the former Atetsu District (present-day Niimi City) of neighboring Okayama Prefecture, hence its name. The name "Mansaku" is said to derive from "mazu saku" (blooms first), as it flowers before other trees. Distributed across the Chugoku and Shikoku regions, locals traditionally began rice paddy preparation when Mansaku bloomed, marking the arrival of spring.
The ribbon-shaped petals are distinctive, and on sunny days, the vibrant yellow flowers stand out beautifully against the blue sky.
Setsubunso (Spring Ephemeral)
Blooming from mid-February to early March, natural habitats exist in Soryo Town, Shobara City, where Kyukamura is located. The name comes from blooming around Setsubun (the day before spring begins) in the old calendar. This Japanese endemic species prefers north-facing semi-shaded areas and won't bloom unless summer grass is cut. This area has become one of Japan's few remaining natural habitats because both conditions were met.
The delicate white flowers are highly popular, attracting many visitors from across the country specifically to see them. At Restore Station roadside rest area, volunteer guides called "hanamori" (flower guardians) can inform visitors about which habitats are blooming and current flowering conditions.
Public Viewing: February 21 (Sat) to March 8 (Sun), 2026
The Setsubunso Festival will be held on the final day, March 8 (Sun).
Location: Restore Station roadside rest area / Setsubunso public natural habitats at 7 locations in Soryo Town
1-3 Shimoryoke, Soryo Town, Shobara City
*Approximately 40 minutes by car from Kyukamura
Inquiries: Satoyama wo Tanoshimu Machi Event Executive Committee Office
TEL: 0824-88-3067
Limited to 20 guests with transportation included
"Let's Go See the Spring Heralding Flowers - Setsubunso Viewing Tour Plan (Limited to 20 guests/weekend stays only)"
Stay Dates: February 20 (Fri) to 22 (Sun), 27 (Fri), 28 (Sat),
March 6 (Fri), 7 (Sat), 2026
*Viewing tour takes place the day after check-in
Rate: From ¥16,000 per person (tax included) for 1 night with 2 meals
*Price per person when 2 guests share 1 room
*Dinner and breakfast are buffet style
Viewing Schedule (day after check-in)
- 9:00 AM: Meet at 1F lobby and depart
- 9:40 AM: Arrive at Restore Station roadside rest area and view flowers
- 11:40 AM: Depart from Restore Station
- 12:20 PM: Arrive at Kyukamura and conclude
For plan details and reservations:
https://www.qkamura.or.jp/qkamura/489/menu.asp?id=taishaku&ty=lim&plan=1026
Fukujuso (Adonis)
Blooming from early March to early April, natural habitats exist in the Tameshige area, about 10 minutes by car from Kyukamura. This is Michinoku Fukujuso, one of four species native to Japan. Local residents carefully maintain the area with grass cutting twice a year to preserve this precious habitat.
Characterized by vibrant yellow large flowers, the biggest blooms reach about 7cm in diameter. The sight of these flowers blooming together toward the blue sky is spectacular. The flower language includes "happiness" and "inviting good fortune," making it a very auspicious flower.
Public Viewing: Early March to early April 2026 (planned)
Location: Hisashiro, Tojo Town, Shobara City
2km from Chugoku Expressway Tojo IC
Inquiries: Hisashiro Community Development Council, Tameshige Fukujuso Festival Executive Committee
TEL: 08477-2-0148
Katakuri (Dogtooth Violet)
Blooming from late March to mid-April, these plants grow naturally along the walking path beside Lake Shinryu in Taishakkyo. While not numerous, their distinctive recurved flower shape makes them quite noticeable among early spring woodland plants with their purple flowers.
Once commonly seen throughout Japan, recent years have seen a decline due to overharvesting and poaching, making them increasingly rare.
Location: Lake Shinryu shores, Taishakkyo
*Approximately 10 minutes by car from Kyukamura
Kyukamura Taishakkyo
Located in the Chugoku Mountains, Taishakkyo stretches approximately 18km. Visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery including the nationally designated natural monument "Oubashi" (Natural Bridge) and "Hakuundo" cave known for its spectacular rock formations. Walking paths are well-maintained, and the area attracts many visitors during fresh green and autumn foliage seasons. Kyukamura Taishakkyo is situated on a hill near Lake Shinryu, known for its sightseeing boats. The grounds include accommodations such as cottages and campgrounds in addition to the hotel, with activities including grass sledding and tennis.
Address: 962-1 Misaka, Tojo Town, Shobara City, Hiroshima 729-5132
General Manager: Shinji Nakashima
Website: https://www.qkamura.or.jp/taishaku/
About Kyukamura - Nature-Inspired Resorts
Kyukamura resort hotels are located in outstanding natural environments including national and quasi-national parks representing Japan's finest scenery. Under the concept of "Nature-Inspired Resorts," the 35 Kyukamura locations offer cuisine featuring local ingredients and experience programs connecting guests with regional nature, culture, and history. Every Kyukamura provides moments where hearts naturally resonate with nature for all visitors.
