Introduction to Ozu Tsutsuji-en

Hello, fellow travelers!
This is Asukarando, your sarukuma writer.

Today we’re heading to Sugimizu, Ozu Town, Kikuchi District, Kumamoto Prefecture, home to the wonderful “Ozu Tsutsuji-en” (Ozu Azalea Garden).

When azalea (tsutsuji) season rolls around, this is one spot you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
Let us introduce you to Ozu Tsutsuji-en ＼(^o^)／

Here’s the parking area.

There’s a vending machine near the entrance too (^-^)/

Portable toilets are available too, so you’ll be covered just in case (^^)

There’s also a covered rest area to escape the sun.

The scenery looked a little different from last year, and here’s why…

The garden is currently undergoing major replanting work!
Scheduled completion: March 2022 (*^^*)

Even so, the azaleas are still amazingly beautiful this year — and next year promises to be even more spectacular. Something to look forward to!

A truly large-scale replanting project is in progress!

What to Love About Ozu Tsutsuji-en

The first thing that catches your eye is this carpet of moss phlox (shibazakura)!

This is where everyone stops first to snap photos ＼(^o^)／

The garden is split across two areas on either side of the road. Let’s start with the section behind the moss phlox (*^^*)

The tall azalea bushes here are quite unusual!

The reds, pinks, and whites are absolutely breathtaking (^з^)-☆

Now let’s head over to the garden on the other side (*^^*)

Azaleas! Azaleas! Azaleas everywhere!

Just how far do they go? The blooms seem to stretch on forever (⌒0⌒)／~~

No wonder the honeybees are so busy!

Keep walking — and yes, you can drive through here too!

There’s a small hill and a grassy field where children can play (^-^)v

You’ll find parking on this side too — super convenient!

At the top of the hill, you’ll find stone table-benches — the perfect VIP spot for a picnic lunch (^-^)v

And here’s the view from that VIP spot～o(^-^o)(o^-^)o

There are also table-benches at the foot of the hill, where you can enjoy lunch right at azalea-eye-level (^-^)

The azaleas stay in bloom for quite a while, so why not add Ozu Tsutsuji-en to your spring travel plans～o(^-^o)(o^-^)o

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Ozu Tsutsuji-en — At a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is accurate as of our visit. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.