By KOICHI UEDA
July 21, 2024 at 18:26 JST
Tambara Lavender Park in Numata, Gunma Prefecture, is now bathed in soothing purple as 30,000 or so early and mid-blooming lavender plants are proudly showing their true colors.
The carpet of flowers will remain spectacular until the end of this month, while late-blooming lavender can be enjoyed until early August.
The park, which operates a ski resort in winter, had no snowfall until February and the rainy season barely lived up to its name this year, meaning day after day of radiant sunshine, ideal conditions for the growth of the lavender.
Located at an altitude of approximately 1,300 meters, the temperature is lower than in central Tokyo. Visitors taking in the intoxicating scent of lavender were exposed to refreshing highland breezes as they walked around in the sun.
Entry to the park is 1,200 yen ($7.60) per person for junior high school students and older, and 500 yen for elementary school children. Pets are also allowed for an additional fee of 500 yen. Visitors can also use a fee-charging ski lift to go up the slopes.
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Visitors to Tambara Lavender Park in Numata, Gunma Prefecture, on July 19 (Koichi Ueda)
