Sennen no Sono Lavender Field

Sennen no Sono Lavender Field is a 15-hectare lavender farm located in Takikawa City, Hokkaido, established in 1958 by local farmer Tadao Tomita. Originally created as an experimental herb cultivation project, the farm gradually expanded its lavender plantings throughout the 1960s and became one of Japan's premier lavender destinations. The name "Sennen no Sono" translates to "Garden of a Thousand Years," reflecting the founder's vision of creating a lasting agricultural legacy.

The lavender fields represent Hokkaido's successful adaptation of European agricultural techniques to Japan's northern climate. Sennen no Sono cultivates primarily four varieties of lavender: early-blooming, late-blooming, lavandula, and white lavender, contributing to the region's development as Japan's lavender capital. The farm has played a significant role in establishing Hokkaido's reputation for herb cultivation and agritourism.

Visitors can walk through designated pathways between the lavender rows, purchase fresh lavender products at the on-site shop, and enjoy lavender-flavored soft-serve ice cream and other local specialties. The farm offers lavender harvesting experiences during peak season, allowing guests to cut their own lavender bundles. A small museum displays the history of lavender cultivation in the region, and the gift shop sells essential oils, dried lavender, and handmade soaps produced on-site.

The optimal visiting period is mid-July to early August when the lavender reaches full bloom, creating the characteristic purple landscape. Early-blooming varieties flower from late June, while late-blooming types extend the season into mid-August. Outside the flowering season, the farm remains open but offers limited attractions, focusing primarily on the museum and shop.

Sennen no Sono is accessible by car via Route 233, approximately 10 kilometers from central Takikawa City. The nearest train station is Takikawa Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line, from which visitors must take a 20-minute taxi ride or rent a car, as public bus service is limited. Admission costs 500 yen for adults during lavender season and 300 yen during off-season periods. The farm operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily from May through October, with extended hours until 6:00 PM during peak blooming season. Free parking accommodates 200 vehicles.