Are you are looking for a relaxing place in the Sasebo city area to celebrate the Japanese tradition of Hanami? Then take a little venture outside the city to visit Hana no Mori Koen (花の森公園) in Nozaki-cho. It’s a quiet little park with ample free parking, overhead shelter, nice walking paths and lots of clean ground space to spread out your “blue tarp”. In the spring time Hana no Mori koen not only has plenty of beautiful cherry blossom trees to enjoy a bento under, but additionally right across the street is an observation deck to view the nationally famous 99 Islands (九十九島). On a lucky day, you might be able to enjoy the Hanami experience to the sounds of a local chorus groups practicing their songs in the park.

Access to Hana no Mori park in Sasebo city, Nagasaki prefecture is an easy 25 minute drive by car on route 149 along the Tawara ga-Ura honto. But if you are opting for public transportation there are 7 daily Sasebo city busses, costing 810円Yen One-Way, the first running at around 9:00am. From stop #2 at Sasebo main terminal, take a bus heading for Nishi Kojima (西小島) & Tawara ga Ura (俵ヶ浦). After about a 50 minute ride get off at Nozaki (野崎), turn left and walk up the country road following the signs for Nozaki Junior High school. Pass the school on your right and continue walking 5 more minutes and you will see the sign for Hana no Mori park on the right hand side of the road.

Hana no Mori Koen is a great place to have a Hanami-kai, but as a humble suggestion- please prepare/bring all your food and drinks with you that you’ll need for the day. This area is a bit rural and there are no markets or convenience stores close by. And don’t forget the carry in, carry out trash policy.

花見楽しんでください!!!