Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden - Hokkaido

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden (サロベツ原生花園) is a vast national park known for its beautiful scenery and abundance of wildlife. It is located at 8662 Kamisarobetsu in the town of Toyotomi in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden (サロベツ原生花園)
Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden 

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden Details

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden is a testament to the enduring beauty and ecological richness of this ancient landscape of Hokkaido. Dating back over 10,000 years, the Sarobetsu region was once a vast lake intricately connected to the sea. Over millennia, the remnants of flora from this bygone era formed layers of peat, gradually shaping the remarkable wetland ecosystem that exists today, a process spanning over 6,000 years.

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden - Toyotomi town, Hokkaido Prefecture
Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden - Toyotomi Town, Hokkaido Prefecture

The Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden stands as a living testament to this captivating evolutionary journey, boasting a diverse array of plant species uniquely adapted to thrive in nutrient-poor high marshes. Against the backdrop of this harsh yet bountiful environment, a kaleidoscope of vibrant blooms unfolds throughout the seasons, offering a mesmerizing spectacle for visitors to behold.

Sarobetsu Wetland Center
Sarobetsu Wetland Center

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden Area Map
Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden Area Map

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden
Time to explore Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Moreover, the wetland serves as a vital sanctuary for countless migratory birds, including the majestic giant anser, which graces the landscape during the spring and autumn months. Recognized as a globally significant wetland under the prestigious Ramsar Convention, Sarobetsu embodies the harmonious coexistence of nature and humanity, beckoning travelers to explore its captivating beauty.

There are several observation platforms in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden
There are several observation platforms in the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

The view from the observation platform
The view from the observation platform

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Established as a national park in 1965 and formally designated under its current name in 1974, Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden has garnered acclaim for its ecological importance and scenic splendor. In 2005, it was further honored with Ramsar status, cementing its status as a cherished natural treasure.

Photos around the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Visitors to the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden are greeted with a 1km wooden pathway extending from the center into the heart of the wetland, providing barrier-free access for all, including wheelchair users and families with strollers. Along this picturesque route, terraces and benches invite leisurely contemplation of the sprawling vistas and delicate floral displays.

Sarobetsu Wetland Center as seen from the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden
Sarobetsu Wetland Center as seen from the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Embarking on a stroll along the boardwalk, visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and respect the fragile ecosystem of Sarobetsu. To preserve the pristine beauty of this natural haven, several guidelines must be observed:

Respect for Wildlife: Refrain from collecting or damaging rare animals and plants, ensuring their conservation for future generations.

Preservation of Habitat: Stay on designated pathways and refrain from stepping onto the wetland, as it is a delicate environment with slow growth rates.

Environmental Stewardship: Dispose of waste responsibly and refrain from littering, preserving the purity of Sarobetsu's pristine landscapes.

Fire Safety: Due to the flammable nature of peat, smoking, and open flames are strictly prohibited within the wetland area, minimizing the risk of fire.

Additionally, pets, bicycles, and motorbikes are not permitted within the center, ensuring the tranquility and safety of both visitors and wildlife alike.

Photos of the Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

Dredger Ships on display in Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

After an enriching exploration of Sarobetsu's natural wonders, visitors can learn more about the wetlands in Sarobetsu Wetland Center and then indulge in the culinary delights of Rest House Sarobetsu, savoring local delicacies such as the renowned "Sarobetsu Ramen" and Hokkaido's famed "ageimo" and "imomochi" after. 


Sarobetsu Primeval Flower garden with the Tomamae Gang
Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden with the Tomamae Gang

I visited Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden with my friends from Tomamae Commercial High School for the first time last October 30, 2022, during our “Tomamae Gang Goes to Wakkanai” Road Trip. It was my 363rd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden was just a side trip that’s not even on our itinerary. It turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery despite visiting during the off-season and not being able to see the flowers. We also had fun taking photos and exploring the wetlands via the boardwalk. 

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden Fees

It’s FREE to enter and explore Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden. 

Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden Operating Hours

You can enter the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden 24/7 and the boardwalk is also available 24 hours a day. However, for safety reasons, it is highly recommended that you visit during the times when the Sarobetsu Wetland Center is also open. 

Sarobetsu Wetland Center is open to the public every;

9 AM to 5 PM [May to October] 

10 AM to 4 PM [November to April]

Sarobetsu Wetland Center is closed on Mondays (November – April only) 

It is also closed on year-end and New Year holidays.

Why visit the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden?

If you love the outdoors and enjoy taking a stroll then Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden is one of the places that you should visit. This vast wetland is designated as a National Park. With its captivating beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and commitment to environmental conservation, the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden invites travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation amidst the pristine wilderness of Hokkaido.


Getting to Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden

 

There is no public transportation going to Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden. The best way to get there is by rental car. 

If you can't drive then the best option is to ride the train going to JR Toyotomi Station.

From Sapporo Limited Express: Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes 

From Asahikawa Limited Express: Approximately 3 hours 

From Wakkanai Local: Approximately 40 minutes by train

Once in the station, you need to walk for about 7 kilometers to reach Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden. 

You may also rent a bike at the Toyotomicho Kankojoho Center beside JR Toyotomi Station. It only costs 300 yen per hour. However, it is only available from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating


Comments

  1. Thank you for sharing beautiful pictures of Sarobetsu Primeval Garden.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Book your hotel thru KLOOK

Klook.com
Subscribe and get updated with the latest travel articles of The Backpack Adventures

Popular posts from this blog

Imus City Plaza - Cavite

Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Cavite

Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park - Cavite

Jose Rizal Shrine in Calamba - Laguna

10 More Things to Do in Asahikawa City

Iwao Onsen Attamaru - Hokkaido

Japan Diaries 4: Day 387

First Filipino Family to Visit All 179 Municipalities of Hokkaido: A Memorable Adventure

Bonifacio Shrine in Indang - Cavite

Japan Diaries 4: Week 56