Tambara Lavender Park
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August 3, 2015 - Tambara Lavender Park
The lavender fields of Hokkaido are famous across Japan and popular with tourists, but for those of us who can't make the long journey to Hokkaido to see these flowers, there are other options closer to home where you can still enjoy lavender on a smaller scale! Today I visited one such place called Tambara Lavender Park in Gunma Prefecture, Numata City.
In winter, Tambara is a popular ski and snowboard resort for beginners, with fun and easy runs. In summer, these runs turn into flower fields of not only lavender, but many other kinds as well, including sunflowers, hydrangea, and more!
From the entrance, a chair lift gives you the option of heading up to the main slopes easily, but the path is an easy 10 minute walk up a slight incline.
Once up to the main ski area, the lavender is the star! Various restaurants and booths sell food and desserts, and there are areas for children to play. Among the flowers, benches are placed, and during most days a concert from "Izanagi" is held. He apparently only plays in flower fields. It is mysterious, otherworldly music, which fits the scene perfectly.
Among the food available, the highlight of the selection for me is the lavender ice cream. It's available in plain milk flavor, all lavender, or a mix. I went for the lavender as its one of my favorite flavors! I recommend it, and the lavender ramune drink if you can find it. I didn't see it sold this year unfortunately.
For flower lovers, photography enthusiasts, and professional ice cream eaters, I definitely recommend a trip out to Tambara!
Tambara can be reached easiest by car by taking the expressway toward Niigata and getting off at the Numata IC. From there, it takes about 30 minutes up into the mountains. For those coming by train, head to Numata Station on the JR Joetsu Line (Takasaki Line to Takasaki Station then transfer to the Joetsu). You can take a bus (40 minutes) or taxi (30 minutes) from the station. The entrance fee is 1000 yen. To use the chair lift is another 800 yen. The umbrellas you can borrow for free! Tambara Lavender Park is open from July to August, but the best time to view lavender is mid-July to mid-August. It's open 7 days a week during this time, 8:30AM to 5:00PM.
You could combine the park with Fukiware Waterfall, often called "The Niagara Falls of Japan", which is also in the area.
And of course, there are other lavender fields including one near Mt. Fuji and one in Aichi. So there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy these beautiful flowers outside of Hokkaido.
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