I visited the hydrangea park in Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture. There are a whopping 14,000 hydrangeas! From 1 to 30 July, the park will be lit up at night.

• Tokamachi Tourist Association HP http://www.tokamachishikankou.jp/modules/gnavi/index.php?lid=85

A 15-minute drive from Tokamachi Station will take you to Ajisai Park. The park is lined with lanterns. These must glow at night!

Hydrangeas in bloom! Amazing! Super beautiful!

Contrast between blue sky and hydrangeas!

I didn't know that you could enjoy such a large number of hydrangeas in Niigata Prefecture. My friends who went with me were also excited for a while by the overwhelming number of hydrangeas.

There was also a hydrangea park profile sign. 'They are trying to make this the best hydrangea park in Japan!' I want to support this!

The road continues deeper into the mountains. It is somewhat exciting.

A hydrangea park donation box was placed. We were told that the park is maintained with the support of local residents, and we helped in a small way.

As you continue along the road, the landscape opens up at once. Amazing! Spectacular!

The view down from the mountain is also amazing! I had no idea that there was such a rich place in Niigata... I was so impressed that there are still so many wonderful places that I don't know about. Beautiful scenery, delicious air and colourful hydrangeas. I felt like I didn't need anything else.

You can enjoy the hydrangeas and lights throughout July, so whether you're in the area or not, please visit on your holiday drive.

Side note: This is a photo of the toilets near the park. The kindness of having kinchol for insect repellents available! It made me feel warm and fuzzy.

Spotlight.

• Ochinomizu, Yoka-boshi, Tokamachi-shi, Niigata 948-0033
• 025-757-3345