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Higashi Village Azalea Festival
Enjoy viewing 50,000 azalea bushes, among the earliest in Japan to come into bloom.
This annual festival is held at the Sonmin no Mori Tsutsuji-en (Village Forest Azalea Garden) in the Yambaru region of northeastern Okinawa Island. The garden is a handmade park created by local residents over six years starting in 1976, and it is home to around 50,000 azalea bushes across seven varieties, including Kerama azaleas, Kurume azaleas, and Hirado azaleas.
Every March, the vast 4.5-hectare grounds burst into bloom with vibrant shades of red, purple, pink, and white. The garden is well known for having the earliest azalea blooms in Japan. Set on elevated ground, it also offers sweeping views of the coastline of Taira Bay, the deep blue sea, and even nearby pineapple fields.
During the festival period, a wide range of events are held each year, including live performances by Okinawa-based artists, traditional Ryukyu dance, Eisa drumming, sanshin music, and even live radio broadcasts-creating a lively celebration unique to Okinawa.
Highlights
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A festival held at the Village Forest Azalea Garden.
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Around 50,000 azaleas across seven varieties burst into full bloom.
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A highlight is the scenic view of the sea beyond the azaleas.
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A wide range of events are also held during the festival.
Photos
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A vibrant display of azaleas in full bloom, bursting with color.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 東村つつじ祭り
- Postal Code
- 905-1204
- Location
- (Higashison Forest Azalea Garden) 861-1 Taira, Higashison, Kunigamigun, Okinawa
- Telephone
- 0980-43-2265
- Schedule
- Early to mid-March
- Access
- About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Naha Airport.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)
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