Nabana no Sato
Experience breathtaking flower gardens and Japan's most stunning winter light displays
Nabana no Sato opened in 1998 as a flower-themed park operated by Nagashima Resort, which also manages the adjacent Nagashima Spa Land amusement park. The 230,000-square-meter garden was designed to showcase seasonal flowers throughout the year, with particular emphasis on creating immersive environments where visitors could walk through tunnels and fields of blooming flowers. From its opening, the park established itself as one of Japan's premier horticultural attractions, featuring both Japanese and Western garden styles.
The park achieved national fame when it launched its winter illumination in 2004. What began as a modest light display has grown into Japan's largest and most acclaimed illumination event, recognized by the Illumination Awards as the country's top lighting attraction multiple years running. The winter illumination features over 8 million LED lights creating themed displays that change annually, including a stunning 200-meter tunnel of lights and elaborate 3D light projections. The scale and artistry of the displays have set new standards for winter illuminations across Japan.
Today, Nabana no Sato attracts over 2 million visitors annually, with peak crowds during the winter illumination season (late October to early May). The park operates year-round with different flowers featured each season: plum blossoms and tulips in spring, hydrangeas and roses in summer, cosmos in autumn, and winter pansies complementing the illuminations. The park's success has contributed to the broader trend of elaborate illumination events throughout Japan, while maintaining its reputation for exceptional horticultural displays during daylight hours.
Key Highlights
- Japan's largest winter illumination with 8+ million LED lights (October-May)
- 200-meter tunnel of lights creating immersive glowing environments
- Seasonal flower displays including 13,000 square meters of tulips in spring
- Andes begonia greenhouse with 12,000 plants in colorful displays
- Multiple restaurants including Japanese, Western, and local Mie cuisine
- Free shuttle bus from nearby Nagashima Spa Land and train stations
- Illumination themes change annually with new creative displays
- Year-round attractions combining daytime flower gardens with evening lights
Access Information
Location
270 Komae, Nagashima-cho, Kuwana, Mie 511-1144
Nearest Stations
- • Kuwana Station (JR Kansai Main Line, Kintetsu Nagoya Line) - 20-minute bus ride
- • Nagashima Station (Kintetsu Nagoya Line) - 15-minute bus ride
Opening Hours
Varies by season. Typical hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (illumination season), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (non-illumination season). Illumination lights on from sunset (around 5:00 PM in winter). Check official website for exact seasonal hours. Open daily except irregular maintenance days.
Admission Fee
Illumination season (late October-early May): Adults ¥2,300 (includes ¥1,000 voucher for food/shopping). Non-illumination season: Adults ¥1,600 (includes ¥1,000 voucher). Elementary students and younger: ¥1,000 year-round. Food vouchers usable at restaurants and shops in park.
How to Get There
From Nagoya
Take Kintetsu Limited Express or JR to Kuwana Station (15-20 minutes, ¥450-¥510), then take direct shuttle bus to Nabana no Sato (20 minutes, ¥210). During illumination season, buses run every 15-20 minutes.
30-40 minutes
From Osaka
Take Kintetsu Limited Express to Kuwana Station (80 minutes, ¥2,640), then shuttle bus to park (20 minutes)
90 minutes
From Tokyo
Take Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (100 minutes), transfer to Kintetsu or JR to Kuwana Station (20 minutes), then shuttle bus (20 minutes)
2.5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Visit Timing
For illuminations: Arrive by 4:00 PM to see gardens in daylight, then stay for lights at sunset. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. For flowers only: Spring (March-May) for tulips, plum, cherry blossoms. Summer for roses and hydrangeas. Autumn for cosmos and autumn leaves.
Photography Tips
The light tunnel is spectacular - arrive early or late to avoid crowds in photos. Tripods not allowed during busy periods. Wide-angle lens useful for tunnel shots. The island of light reflection pond is iconic. Daytime flower gardens best photographed in morning light.
Winter Illumination Season
Dress very warmly December-February - you'll be outside for 2-3 hours. The park provides limited heated rest areas. Illumination runs late October to early May, with peak beauty January-February. Themes change annually - 2023-2024 featured cherry blossoms and Japanese scenery.
Using Food Vouchers
Admission includes ¥1,000 voucher usable at all restaurants and some shops. The Japanese restaurant serves quality Mie wagyu beef sets. Western restaurant offers pasta and pizza. Village café has lighter meals. Vouchers valid same day only - use them!
Shuttle Bus Strategy
Direct buses from Kuwana Station run frequently during illumination season. Return buses after closing can be crowded - expect 20-30 minute wait. Consider taking taxi (¥2,500-¥3,000) to avoid crowds if traveling in groups. Free parking available but fills early on weekends.
Don't Miss Areas
The 200-meter light tunnel is the highlight - walk through multiple times for different perspectives. Andes begonia greenhouse (year-round) displays 12,000 colorful begonias. Main flower field varies by season. Check map at entrance for current blooming areas.
Visitor Facilities
Good facilities including clean restrooms, baby changing areas, and wheelchair access. Some paths are gravel - wheelchairs and strollers manageable but require effort. Lockers available for coats/bags. Gift shops sell local Mie products and flower-themed souvenirs.
Combination Visit
Can combine with Nagashima Spa Land amusement park next door (separate admission). Some package tickets available. If staying overnight, nearby Nagashima Resort hotels offer packages with park admission. The onsen resort is also adjacent for post-visit relaxation.
FAQ
When is the winter illumination held?
The famous winter illumination typically runs from late October to early May, with exact dates varying yearly. Peak season is November through February. The light tunnel and themed displays change annually. Check official website for current dates before planning. Illumination starts around sunset (4:30-5:30pm depending on season).
What flowers can I see in each season?
Spring features tulips, cherry blossoms, and nemophila. Summer showcases hydrangeas and begonias in the greenhouse. Autumn brings dahlias and cosmos. Winter offers pansies and illumination (flowers are limited). The greenhouse maintains tropical plants year-round. Peak flower seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October).
How long should I spend at Nabana no Sato?
During illumination season, plan for 2.5 to 3.5 hours to enjoy the lights, flower areas, and dining. Daytime flower season visits need 2 hours minimum. Photography enthusiasts often stay longer. The park is compact enough to see everything but deserves leisurely appreciation.
How crowded does it get during illumination season?
Weekends, holidays, and the Christmas-New Year period are extremely crowded with long entry lines and packed walkways. Weekday evenings are much more pleasant. Arrive right at opening (around sunset) or after 7:30pm for smaller crowds. Late winter (February-March) is least crowded while still offering illumination.
Are there restaurants inside the park?
Yes, multiple restaurants serve various cuisines including Japanese, Western, Italian, and Chinese. The beer garden operates seasonally. Food court options are available. Reservation is recommended for sit-down restaurants during peak periods. Admission ticket includes a voucher usable at restaurants and shops.
Is the illumination worth visiting if I've seen other light displays?
Nabana no Sato's illumination is considered one of Japan's best, featuring a stunning 200-meter light tunnel and elaborate themed areas. The scale and quality exceed most other displays. If you appreciate illuminations, it's definitely worth experiencing despite having seen others.
How do I use the facility voucher included with admission?
The 1,000 yen voucher (included in illumination season tickets) can be used at restaurants, shops, and the beer garden. It's paper-based and presented like cash. If your purchase exceeds the voucher amount, pay the difference. No change is given if you spend less. Valid only on the day of visit.
Can I take good photos of the illumination?
Photography is permitted and encouraged. Bring a tripod for better night shots, though crowded areas make tripod use difficult. A camera with good low-light performance is ideal. The light tunnel is particularly photogenic. Arrive early for less crowded photo opportunities.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, pathways are paved and generally wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair rentals are available. However, some areas may be challenging during peak crowding. Strollers are permitted but can be difficult to maneuver in crowded evening illumination. Consider baby carriers during busy periods.
What should I wear for a winter illumination visit?
Dress very warmly as you'll be outdoors for 2+ hours in winter. Temperatures can drop to freezing. Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking. Hand warmers are useful. Heated greenhouses provide brief warm-up spots. Layers are best as some indoor areas and restaurants are heated.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Ise-Shima National Park
Coastal national park featuring ria coastline, pearl cultivation sites, scenic islands, and sacred shrines along Mie Prefecture's beautiful shores.
Ise Grand Shrine
Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami
Nagashima Spa Land
Major amusement park featuring world-class roller coasters, water park, hot springs, and outlet shopping in one massive resort complex.
Toba Aquarium
Japan's only aquarium housing dugongs, featuring diverse marine life from around the world in a free-flow layout without fixed routes.