There's no prettier forest path in the month of June than the short stroll that leads through the Higo Ancient Forest to the Kumamoto Prefecture Decorated Tumulus Museum just outside Yamaga City. Clusters of hydrangea in a mostly blue palette line the paved path that delivers visitors from the parking area to the museum's entrance. Several species of the early summer flower can be found here, as well as a few rarer colors (like dark pink). In other months, the forest's bamboo and pine trees provide plenty of shade for the 300 meter path.
- 1 min read
Hydrangea Road
A flowery pathway in the Higo Ancient Forest
By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
Hydrangea line the pathway of the Higo Ancient Forest park
A bee flits from flower to flower
The pathway is around 300 meters long with two long staircases
Bamboo and pine trees also line the route
Several varieties of hydrangea can be found growing here
The hydrangea road actually leads to the Kumamoto Prefectural Decorated Tumulus Museum
A rarer hue of dark pink hydrangea can be spotted at a few locations along the path
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Yui Yamaguchi
10 years ago
I love the picture no. 6. It could lead me to the special place!?
Yui, the path is very impressive and beautiful, but it was hard to capture the "essence" of it with my camera. I hope you have the chance to visit it sometime! And make sure you go across the street to see the ancient lotus garden as well.
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
These flowers are the only good thing about the rainy season in my opinion!
That and the slight break from the humidity before summer hits. Kyushu has already felt like an oven on the non-rainy days!
4 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
2Exploring Tokyo’s Food Culture
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3Kamenoi Hotel Aso: A Grand Nature Resort in Aso
Kumamoto - Sponsored -
4Nature, Art, and Culture Along an Ancient Route
Culture - Sponsored -
5Nara Beyond the Crowds With Two Peaceful Retreats
Nara - Sponsored -
6Explore Hakodate’s Gourmet Food and Markets
Hokkaido - Sponsored -
7Ozu Castle Town: A Sustainable Destination in Japan
Ehime - Sponsored -
8A Spring and Summer Guide to Lake Tazawa, Complete with the Perfect Stay
Akita - Sponsored -
9A Vegan Visit to Fukuoka
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
10An All-Inclusive Osaka Escape With KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
Osaka - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Guide to Suica Cards in Japan
Transportation -
3Akishinodera Temple
Nara -
4Tax-free Shopping in Japan: 2026 Changes
Planning -
5The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6Punch the Monkey: Japan's Viral Baby Macaque
Chiba -
7May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
9Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
10Japanese Urban Legends
Culture