【Red Hill Heather Forest】A “Garden of Flowers and Woodland” in the Satoyama of Tsu, Mie

Located in the satoyama landscape of Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, Red Hill Heather Forest is a garden space created by the Akatsuka Botanical Garden Group, where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, lush greenery, and tranquil woodland.
Spanning approximately 130,000 square meters (with about 70,000 square meters open to the public), the grounds are divided into a forest area and a flower area, connected by well-maintained walking paths that wind through gently rolling terrain.
Name
Red Hill Heather Forest
Address
2877 Takanoo-cho, Tsu, Mie , 514-2221
Business Hours
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

(Last admission: 4:30 PM)

Hours may vary depending on the season
Closed
Thursdays

Additional closures may occur in summer, winter, or for maintenance—please check the official website
Phone number
Fee
Adults: ¥500–¥1,200

Junior & Senior High School Students: Half price

Elementary School Students and younger: Free
CONTENT

From Plum to Wisteria—A Spring Relay of Blossoms in Full Bloom

In spring, Red Hill Heather Forest comes alive as colorful flowers bloom one after another. Around 50 plum trees, including upright and weeping varieties, herald the arrival of spring, followed by cherry blossoms and rhododendrons that decorate the slopes and walking paths.

The “Wisteria Garden,” renowned for its beauty, is typically open from early April to early May. Wisteria in shades of white, purple, pink, and yellow bloom in stunning abundance. In particular, the space created by 22 magnificent wisteria trees envelops visitors in a sweet fragrance, offering a truly immersive, multi-sensory experience. During this period, special wisteria events are held, filling the garden with vibrant energy.

As spring reaches its peak, the rose garden—home to approximately 10,000 rose bushes—comes into full bloom. During this time, the “Rose Festival” is held, and the garden is filled with vibrant colors and rich fragrance, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

In the forest area, fresh greenery highlights the towering sequoia trees, while soft spring sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a magical atmosphere. Following the “spring flower relay”—from plum to cherry and rhododendron, then wisteria, and finally roses—is a unique and luxurious way to enjoy this forest.

A Cool Summer Landscape—Water Lilies Blooming Across the Pond

In summer, Red Hill Heather Forest transforms into a refreshing landscape defined by lush greenery and tranquil waters. One of the highlights is the water lily pond, where around 1,000 plants of 10 different varieties bloom from June to September, creating a dreamlike scene reminiscent of a Monet painting.

During the rainy season, approximately 2,500 hydrangeas bloom across the garden, reaching their peak from mid-June to early July. Their cool tones of blue and purple bring a sense of freshness to the summer heat. Large Titanbicus flowers also add a vibrant, tropical touch.

In the forest area, the greenery becomes deepest, and the towering sequoias provide welcome shade. Walking through dappled sunlight and gentle breezes, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the refreshing beauty of summer nature.

Summer at the garden is defined by the cool harmony of water lilies, hydrangeas, and rich green landscapes.

Please note that seasonal events and blooming conditions may vary. We recommend checking the official website for the latest updates before your visit.

Autumn Colors and the Fragrance of Roses in a Mature Forest

In autumn, the forest is enveloped in a rich tapestry of fall foliage and seasonal flowers. Maple and sequoia trees turn vibrant colors, with the best viewing period typically from late October to late November. The soft, angled sunlight of autumn enhances the beauty of the leaves, creating breathtaking scenery.

In the flower area, roses bloom once again in autumn. With over 400 varieties and 1,500 plants, these autumn roses are known for their strong fragrance and more subdued, elegant colors. Seasonal plants such as Farfugium and Fujibakama also add gentle accents to the late-autumn landscape.

Autumn is a season of calm after the vibrant energy of summer. The deep forest tones combined with floral accents create a serene atmosphere, perfect for leaf viewing, rose appreciation, and nature observation.

Winter Landscapes Adorned with Christmas Roses and Daffodils

In winter, Red Hill Heather Forest reveals a quiet and refined beauty that stands out precisely because of the reduced number of blooms.

The main highlight during this season is the Christmas rose, which blooms from January to March. Its subdued colors and dignified presence add a gentle elegance to the winter landscape.

Bright yellow daffodils, blooming from late December to February, bring a sense of brightness and hope to the winter garden.

With the leaves fallen, the shapes of branches and tree forms become more prominent, revealing nature’s sculptural beauty. The towering sequoias against the winter sky and the light filtering through bare branches create a solemn and peaceful atmosphere.

Winter is truly a season to appreciate stillness. In contrast to the lively colors of spring through autumn, this quieter landscape invites visitors to slow down, reflect, and connect with nature in a deeper way.

Note: Information is current at the time of publication. Please check the official website for the latest updates.

MIE

  • 【Suzuka Circuit Park】A Theme Park That Tantalizes Children’s Sense of Adventure

    【Suzuka Circuit Park】A Theme Park That Tantalizes Children’s Sense of Adventure

  • 【Shima Spain Village】 A Popular Theme Park to Enjoy Spanish Culture in Ise-Shima!

    【Shima Spain Village】 A Popular Theme Park to Enjoy Spanish Culture in Ise-Shima!

  • 【Yunoyama Onsen】Soak in the Blissful Hot Springs Surrounded by Rich Nature

    【Yunoyama Onsen】Soak in the Blissful Hot Springs Surrounded by Rich Nature

  • 【Gozaisho Ropeway】One of Japan’s premier ropeways, offering breathtaking views in every season

    【Gozaisho Ropeway】One of Japan’s premier ropeways, offering breathtaking views in every season

  • 【Nagashima Spa Land】A representative amusement park in Tokai, known for its thrilling roller coasters!

    【Nagashima Spa Land】A representative amusement park in Tokai, known for its thrilling roller coasters!

  • 【Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima】Shop at one of Japan’s largest outlet malls

    【Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima】Shop at one of Japan’s largest outlet malls

nature

  • 【SHITARA VILLAGE】A Resort Stay Immersed in the Nature of Southern Nagano and Oku-Mikawa

    【SHITARA VILLAGE】A Resort Stay Immersed in the Nature of Southern Nagano and Oku-Mikawa

  • 【Non Hoi Park】 A Comprehensive Botanical and Zoological Park Where You Can Feel Close to Living Creatures and Nature

    【Non Hoi Park】 A Comprehensive Botanical and Zoological Park Where You Can Feel Close to Living Creatures and Nature

  • 【Sakushima】A Charming Island of Healing and Art Floating in Mikawa Bay

    【Sakushima】A Charming Island of Healing and Art Floating in Mikawa Bay

  • 【Asuke (Korankei)】 A Town of History, Tradition, and Nostalgia

    【Asuke (Korankei)】 A Town of History, Tradition, and Nostalgia

  • 【Chausuyama Highlands】A 1,415m Natural Escape with Stunning Seasonal Views

    【Chausuyama Highlands】A 1,415m Natural Escape with Stunning Seasonal Views

  • 【Shidami Kofun Historical Village】Experience Ancient Japan in a Vast Burial Mound Landscape

    【Shidami Kofun Historical Village】Experience Ancient Japan in a Vast Burial Mound Landscape

PREV