Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park: A Flowery Oasis in Northeastern Hokkaidō

Looking down on Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park from the observation deck.

The moss phlox flowers are pink with subtle touches of purple.

The varying hues of the flowers are part of the attraction of the park.

The stairs to the observation deck are marked by this distinctive pink torii.

Dedicated to the Shintō deities of the mountain, Yamatsumi Shrine stands further up the slope beyond the observation deck, and sports another pink torii.

The observation deck and shrine are both visible at upper right.

Park tram fares are ¥300 for adults and ¥150 for elementary-school students. The cow image depicted on the slope is “Nonky,” a character created for the former village of Higashimokoto and its booming dairy industry.

Visitors can drive go-carts through vistas of pink.

The shibazakura ice cream looks as refreshing as it tastes.

A life-size panel in the shape of a dairy cow presents basic information about these animals while playing recordings of their sounds.

A life-size panel in the shape of a dairy cow presents basic information about these animals while playing recordings of their sounds.