Acao Rose Festa 2027 – Atami, Japan

Overview

The Acao Rose Festa is a breathtaking floral celebration held within the verdant, hillside landscape of Acao Forest, overlooking the shimmering blue expanse of Sagami Bay. As one of the most distinguished horticultural events in the Kanto and Shizuoka regions, the festival marks the arrival of spring by showcasing an extraordinary collection of 4,000 rose bushes encompassing 600 unique varieties. The estate, spanning 660,000 square meters, is divided into thirteen themed gardens, each meticulously designed to highlight the beauty of seasonal flora in a sophisticated and naturalistic setting.

During the festival, visitors are invited to wander through diverse botanical landscapes, including the world-renowned English Rose Garden, which houses rare species of wild roses that are difficult to encounter elsewhere in Japan. The experience is enhanced by the presence of other vibrant seasonal blooms, such as blue foxgloves and delphiniums, which add a painterly richness to the hillside vistas. The garden’s layout encourages a leisurely descent from the upper reaches of the forest toward the coast, providing panoramic sea views that perfectly complement the intricate beauty of the roses in full bloom.

Beyond the floral displays, the festival serves as a cultural hub featuring architectural and culinary delights. The iconic COEDA HOUSE, designed by the world-famous architect Kengo Kuma, stands as an architectural jewel within the garden, offering a place to relax with rose-themed sweets and artisanal drinks. Through hands-on floral workshops, photography contests, and the incorporation of art installations scattered throughout the woodland, the Acao Rose Festa creates a multi-sensory experience that connects visitors deeply with the artistry of nature.

Event Highlights

• Immerse yourself in a vast landscape of 4,000 rose bushes and 600 distinct varieties, meticulously curated across thirteen unique themed gardens.
• Explore the acclaimed English Rose Garden, celebrated for its rare wild rose species and stylish, timeless garden design.
• Relax at the COEDA HOUSE, a stunning architectural landmark designed by Kengo Kuma, while enjoying original rose-inspired gourmet sweets and seasonal refreshments.
• Engage in interactive floral workshops and artisan craft experiences that allow you to take home a piece of the garden’s natural beauty.

Why Attend

The Acao Rose Festa is an ideal destination for flower enthusiasts, amateur photographers, and travelers seeking a serene and visually restorative escape. It provides a rare opportunity to witness one of the most comprehensive rose exhibitions in Japan, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you are a dedicated gardener looking for inspiration or simply someone who appreciates the quiet elegance of an English-style garden, the festival offers an unmatched blend of natural splendor and thoughtful landscape design.

Attending this event also offers a significant benefit to those interested in the artistic and architectural side of travel. The thoughtful integration of art installations and Kengo Kuma’s design within the natural topography makes it more than just a flower show; it is an immersive experience that highlights the potential of sustainable, beauty-focused landscaping. It is highly recommended for families, couples, and solo travelers alike who wish to enjoy a tranquil day exploring one of Shizuoka’s most photogenic locations.

Date & Duration

• Event Date: April – June 2027
• Event Duration: The festival spans the peak spring blooming period, typically offering daily garden access from early morning until late afternoon.

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Ticket Information

• How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets can be purchased at the main entrance gate or via official online booking platforms prior to arrival.
• Admission Type: Standard general admission permits full access to the thirteen themed gardens, the shuttle bus service within the forest, and all walking paths.
• Ticket Pricing: Adult admission generally ranges from approximately $18.00 to $27.00 per person, depending on the specific date and seasonal demand.
• Special Seating Options: While the gardens are a walk-through experience, casual seating is available at the COEDA HOUSE cafe and at various rest stops along the garden path.
• VIP Options: There are no formal VIP packages, but guests can often secure “Early In” access on weekends and holidays to enjoy the gardens before the arrival of midday crowds.

Venue / Location

• City and Country: Atami, Japan
• Venue Name: Acao Forest
• Google Maps Address: 1027-8 Kamitaga, Atami, Shizuoka 413-0101, Japan

Contact Information

• Email: info@acao.jp
• Phone Number: +81 557-82-1221
• Official Website: https://acao.jp/en/

Accommodation Options:

Atami is a world-class hot spring resort town, providing a wealth of accommodation options that cater to every preference. Staying in the central Atami area is highly recommended, as it allows visitors to enjoy the town’s historic onsen culture and fresh seafood restaurants while being only a short distance from the forest entrance.

For a more immersive experience, there are several luxury ryokans and boutique hotels nestled in the hills surrounding Atami, offering stunning views of Sagami Bay. Choosing an accommodation that provides a complimentary shuttle service to Acao Forest or is located near the main bus route will significantly streamline your travel, especially during the busy spring festival season.

Getting There

• Nearest Airport: Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport is the primary regional gateway, though many travelers also arrive via Tokyo’s international airports and take the Shinkansen to Atami Station.
• Nearest Train/Metro Station: Atami Station is the main rail hub, served by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen and several local lines.
• Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Dedicated shuttle buses run frequently from Atami Station directly to the Acao Forest entrance.
• Parking Availability: On-site parking is available for approximately 100 vehicles, operating on a paid, first-come, first-served basis.
• Directions by Car: Access is via the local coastal roads from Atami city center; please follow signs for Kamitaga or Acao Forest, keeping in mind that mountain roads can be narrow.

Dining Recommendations

Breakfast Recommendations:

• Start your day in Atami with a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, featuring fresh seasonal fish and local miso soup.
• Visit the artisanal bakeries located near Atami Station to pick up freshly baked breads and light pastries for a picnic-style start.
• Enjoy a simple and healthy breakfast at one of the seaside cafes, which offer beautiful views of the morning bay before you head to the forest.

Lunch Recommendations:

• COEDA HOUSE within the garden provides a signature menu of rose-infused sweets, light sandwiches, and seasonal beverages for a convenient garden-side lunch.
• Explore the local restaurants in the Kamitaga area for authentic Japanese set meals that utilize regional produce and fresh ingredients.
• The shops near the forest entrance often feature local bento boxes, perfect for enjoying as you stroll through the different themed gardens.

Dinner Recommendations:

• Atami is famous for its fresh seafood; visit the local sushi bars and seafood izakayas near the harbor to sample the catch of the day.
• Fine dining options in the hills of Atami offer sophisticated multi-course kaiseki meals that emphasize local mountain and ocean ingredients.
• Explore the casual eateries in the Atami shopping arcade, which serve classic comfort foods like savory ramen and crispy tempura.

Local Specialties to Try:

• Atami’s renowned seafood, particularly freshly caught tuna and seasonal whitebait, which are staples of the local diet.
• Handcrafted rose-themed confections and herbal products available in the Acao Forest gift shop, made with ingredients grown on-site.
• Local citrus-based products, including marmalades and juices, which take advantage of the sunny, temperate climate of the Shizuoka coastline.

What is this event?

The Acao Rose Festa is a premier spring floral exhibition held at the Acao Forest resort in Atami, Japan. It celebrates the blooming of thousands of roses and seasonal perennials across thirteen unique, themed garden zones.

This event allows visitors to explore a massive hillside garden overlooking the ocean while enjoying floral workshops and gourmet treats. It is a dedicated space for botanical appreciation and seasonal beauty in the heart of Shizuoka.

Why is it popular?

It is widely beloved for its dramatic combination of lush botanical displays and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The sheer scale of 4,000 rose bushes makes it one of the most visually stunning flower festivals in the region.

Fans of the event return annually for the peaceful atmosphere, the iconic architectural beauty of the COEDA HOUSE, and the rare opportunity to see specialized English rose species in full bloom. Its mix of natural charm and artistic design makes it a photographer’s paradise.

Tips before you go

• Plan to spend at least three to four hours in the forest to properly explore all thirteen themed gardens and enjoy the cafe without rushing.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the garden is located on a hillside and involves navigating gentle slopes and stone paths.
• Check the official bloom status on the website before your visit, as the peak flower times can shift slightly depending on the spring weather.
• Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the larger crowds that typically flock to the forest on Golden Week and weekends.
• Bring a portable umbrella or light rain gear, as spring weather in the Shizuoka mountains can occasionally be unpredictable.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Take the shuttle bus to the highest point of the forest first and then enjoy a leisurely, mostly downhill walk back to the entrance to save your energy.
• Don’t skip the “herb workshop” area, where you can participate in hands-on activities like crafting original scent sachets or floral-themed souvenirs.
• Stop by the COEDA HOUSE during the mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest lunch periods and enjoy the best natural light for photos.
• If you are interested in photography, consider bringing a polarizing filter to help manage the bright reflections of the sea and enhance the colors of the roses.
• Keep in mind that the forest is a “resort park,” meaning it is fully equipped with visitor-friendly infrastructure, making it an excellent choice for a stress-free outing.
• Don’t forget to explore the variety of themed gardens; each has a completely different aesthetic, from formal English designs to more rustic, naturalistic patches.

Attendee Experiences

• The view of the roses against the deep blue of the ocean is something I have never seen anywhere else in my life; it felt like a dream.
• We took the bus to the top and walked down slowly, and it was the most relaxing afternoon we have had all year.
• The cafe is so stylish and the rose-flavored soft-serve ice cream was the perfect refreshing treat after a long walk through the gardens.

Location

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