3rd Feb 2012: Houtouzan Robai Garden in Chichibu

The garden located in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, is a famous destination for robai (wax plum) flowers, which bloom every winter and attract many visitors with their vibrant yellow blossoms. The garden is situated at the foot of Mount Hōtōzan, offering opportunities for hiking and mountaineering.

At the summit of the mountain stands the Hōtōzan Shrine, making it a popular tourist spot. Additionally, the Chichibu area is known for its hot springs and other tourist attractions, so it's highly recommended to explore the surrounding area after enjoying the robai flowers.

Robai are winter-blooming flowers known for their strong fragrance and striking yellow color. They typically bloom from December to January, offering a splash of bright color in the cold season, becoming a winter tradition for those who visit.

The Hōtōzan Robai Garden spans approximately 2.2 hectares, and thousands of robai trees are planted throughout the garden. A variety of robai species are cultivated, and even an amateur like me was able to distinguish at least two different types.

I visited by car, and the garden has ample parking. For those traveling by train, the nearest stations are the Seibu-Chichibu Station or Chichibu Station, both of which are accessible by bus or taxi.
The sight of the yellow robai flowers blooming in the winter cold is a beautiful scene that fills visitors with warmth. I recommend photographing on a sunny day, as the contrast between the yellow robai blossoms and the blue sky is stunning. If possible, using a PL filter to control the light would be ideal. When shooting with front lighting, the blue sky will stand out beautifully, so I suggest giving that a try.