Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park Metasequoia Rows Autumn Foliage Complete Guide 2025 Edition [Peak Viewing Season・Access・Photo Spots]
Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park, located in Shimomizo, Minami Ward, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa, is known as a representative autumn foliage destination in the greater Tokyo area. In particular, the metasequoia rows surrounding the French-style garden display a spectacular brick-colored autumn landscape, making it a popular spot visited annually by numerous photography enthusiasts and families.
This article comprehensively provides information you should know before visiting, from the charm of the metasequoia rows and peak viewing periods to access methods, photography points, and nearby facilities.
The Appeal and Characteristics of the Metasequoia Rows
A 300-meter tree-lined path adorning the French-style garden
The metasequoia rows at Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park are arranged symmetrically on both sides of a French-style garden centered around a fountain plaza. Planted over approximately 300 meters, the metasequoia trees (deciduous conifers of the Cupressaceae family) harmonize with the symmetrical garden design, creating an elegant space reminiscent of European palace gardens.
From spring through summer, you can enjoy beautiful fresh greenery. When autumn arrives, you can appreciate foliage that changes from vivid brick color to golden hues. The contrast created by the central fountain, meticulously maintained lawn, seasonal flowers, and metasequoia foliage is a special landscape you can only see in this location.
What is Metasequoia? The Appeal of a Living Fossil
Metasequoia is a valuable tree also called a “living fossil.” Once thought to be extinct, living specimens were discovered in Sichuan Province, China in 1945, and subsequently spread worldwide. In Japan, many were planted as park trees and street trees during the Showa era, and now form beautiful rows in various locations.
The tree reaches heights of 20 to 30 meters and is characterized by its well-formed conical shape. In autumn, the leaves change to a vivid orange to reddish-brown color, and before falling, they glow golden. At Sagamihara Park, you can observe this beautiful color change up close.
Autumn Foliage Peak Season and Color Change Information
Peak viewing season typically occurs from late November to early December
The metasequoia rows at Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park typically reach their peak viewing season from late November to early December. While the timing can vary depending on temperature changes, visiting during this period allows you to enjoy the most beautiful autumn foliage.
Color Change Schedule (Approximate)
- Mid-November: Color begins to change
- Late November: Peak viewing begins
- Early December: Peak season
- Mid-December: Leaf fall progresses
Methods for confirming the latest foliage information
The coloring status of autumn foliage varies from year to year depending on climate conditions. Before visiting, it is recommended to confirm the latest information through the following methods.
- Inquiry to the Park Management Office: You can confirm directly by phone
- Search on SNS: Search hashtags such as “#SagamiharaPark Metasequoia” on Instagram and Twitter
- Autumn Foliage Information Sites: Check updated information on autumn foliage destination sites such as Weather News and Walker Plus
Access Methods and Parking Information
Access by train and bus
When using public transportation, there are multiple routes available.
From JR Sagami Line “Haraatama Station”
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot (approximately 1.5 km)
- The closest station, but requires walking
From JR Yokohama Line “Sagamiono Station”
- Board Kanagawa Chuo Bus heading to “Joshibi University of Art and Design” from bus stop #1 on the North Exit
- Get off at the final stop “Joshibi University of Art and Design,” approximately 5 minutes on foot
- Bus travel time: Approximately 25 minutes
From JR Yokohama Line “Furuedo Station”
- Board the bus heading to “Joshibi University of Art and Design”
- Get off at the final stop, approximately 5 minutes on foot
- Bus travel time: Approximately 15 minutes
Access by car and parking
Access from major roads
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Yokohama Machida IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Sagamihara Aiko IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway
- Accessible from National Route 16
Parking Information
Multiple parking areas are provided at Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park.
- Capacity: Approximately 500 spaces (combined total of multiple parking areas)
- Rates:
- Weekdays: 100 yen for up to 2 hours, then 50 yen per hour, maximum 200 yen
- Weekends and holidays: 200 yen for up to 2 hours, then 100 yen per hour, maximum 500 yen
- Operating hours: 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM (subject to change depending on the season)
Congestion is expected on weekends during peak foliage season, so visiting early in the morning is recommended.
Recommended Photography Spots and Ways to Enjoy
The view from Sakata no Tane Greenhouse observation room
The most popular photography spot is the observation room of the Sakata no Tane Greenhouse. From the second floor observation room of this facility, Kanagawa’s largest greenhouse, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the metasequoia rows and French-style garden.
Appeal of the observation room
- Can view the entire rows from a high vantage point
- Can get an aerial view of the symmetrical garden design
- Photography-friendly compositions are possible
- Comfortable viewing regardless of weather
Greenhouse Basic Information
- Admission: Free
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Closed: Mondays (if a national holiday, then the following day)
Enjoying the tree-lined path on foot
Walking through the metasequoia rows is also an exceptional experience. While strolling along the maintained walking path, you can enjoy the tunnel of autumn foliage overhead.
Points for walking and enjoying
- The view from the lawn area is also beautiful
- Including the fountain in the foreground of your photos is recommended
- Early morning light is particularly ethereal
- When leaf fall begins, the ground carpeted with leaves is also a sight to see
Illumination event (limited period)
In 2025, fountain illumination is scheduled to be held from December 5 (Friday) to 7 (Sunday). You can enjoy autumn foliage in a mystical atmosphere different from daytime.
Tips for enjoying the illumination
- The contrast with the blue sky after sunset is beautiful
- The foliage reflected on the fountain’s water surface is also a photography spot
- Check tripod usage rules in advance
- Prepare adequate cold-weather protection
Other attractions within the park
Mizunaduki Garden’s irises
In addition to the metasequoia rows, Sagamihara Park is a comprehensive park where you can enjoy flowers in all four seasons. The “Mizunaduki Garden” in particular is famous as a destination for iris flowers in June, with approximately 118 varieties and about 22,000 irises in full bloom.
Autumn foliage spots throughout the park
In addition to metasequoia, various autumn foliage trees are planted throughout the park.
- Ginkgo rows: A beautiful golden carpet
- Japanese maple: Scattered throughout the park
- Japanese zelkova: Contrast between majestic tree shape and autumn foliage
Lawn plaza and picnic area
At the vast lawn plaza, you can spread out a leisure sheet and enjoy a picnic. Families and groups enjoy spending time here while viewing the autumn foliage.
Picnic precautions
- Barbecues and use of open flames are prohibited
- Take all trash with you
- Pets are allowed (leash required)
Nearby Attractions to Visit
Natural Hot Spring Yu Hanara Atsugi Branch
A day-use hot spring facility located approximately 15 minutes by car from Sagamihara Park. It’s perfect for relaxing after enjoying autumn foliage.
- Location: Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Facilities: Outdoor bath, indoor bath, sauna, rock bath, dining
- Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM (last entry 11:00 PM)
Kamegaike Hachimangu Shrine
A historic shrine located approximately 3 km from Sagamihara Park. You can enjoy worship in a quiet temple grounds.
Children’s Land
“Children’s Land” in Aoba Ward, Yokohama is also known as an autumn foliage destination. Located approximately 30 minutes by car from Sagamihara Park, it can be incorporated into an autumn foliage tour route.
Autumn foliage at Children’s Land
- Peak viewing season: Mid-November to early December
- Diverse foliage trees on extensive grounds
- Children’s play equipment and facilities are also well-equipped
Precautions and etiquette for visiting
Tips for avoiding crowds
During peak foliage season, the park is crowded with many visitors. Points for enjoying comfortably:
- Visit on weekdays: Less crowded than weekends and holidays
- Visit early in the morning: Relatively empty right after opening, and foliage illuminated by morning sun is also beautiful
- Before and after peak season: Mid-November and mid-December are also fully enjoyable
Photography etiquette
- Photograph in places that do not inconvenience other visitors
- When using a tripod, be mindful not to obstruct passage
- Do not enter planted areas
- Check with the management office in advance regarding drone use
Clothing and items to bring
Recommended clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes (the park is large with many walking paths)
- Layered clothing (mornings and evenings are cold)
- Hat or sunglasses (sun protection)
Convenient items to bring
- Camera/smartphone (and chargers)
- Leisure sheet
- Drinks and snacks
- Garbage bag
- Rain gear (as backup for weather changes)
Facility Information and Contact
Basic Information
- Name: Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park
- Address: 3277 Shimomizo, Minami Ward, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Opening hours: Always open (some facilities have restricted hours)
- Admission: Free
- Closed days: None (some facilities have closure days)
- Contact: Sagamihara Park Management Office
- Official website: Check the Kanagawa Parks Association homepage for the latest information
Barrier-free Information
Sagamihara Park has extensive barrier-free accommodations.
- Wheelchair accessible restrooms: Located in multiple places throughout the park
- Wheelchair accessible parking: Available at each parking area
- Ramps: Installed on major walking paths
- Wheelchair rentals: Available at the management office (limited availability)
Autumn foliage ranking and reviews
Position in Kanagawa Prefecture rankings
In autumn foliage destination rankings within Kanagawa Prefecture, it ranks in the top tier alongside Oyama-ji Temple, Oyama Afuri Shrine Lower Shrine, and the Hakone area. Easy access from the city center, well-maintained facilities, and the harmony with a unique French-style garden are highly appreciated.
Visitor comments
Evaluations from those who have actually visited include the following.
- “The view from the observation room is wonderful and very photogenic”
- “Parking fees are reasonable and family-friendly”
- “The park is spacious and you can stroll comfortably even when crowded”
- “Autumn foliage other than metasequoia is also beautiful, and you can enjoy a full day”
- “Barrier-free facilities are well-equipped and reassuring”
Ways to enjoy Sagamihara Park throughout the year
Spring: Cherry blossoms and irises
- Late March to early April: Cherry blossoms bloom
- June: Peak season for irises at Mizunaduki Garden
Summer: Green shade and water play
- Fresh greenery of metasequoia is beautiful
- Enjoy coolness around the fountain
- Appreciate tropical plants at the greenhouse
Autumn: Foliage season
- Late November to early December: Metasequoia rows’ autumn foliage
- Enjoy various autumn foliage at multiple locations throughout the park
Winter: Quiet strolling
- Strolling in clear winter air
- Appreciate tropical plants in the warm greenhouse
Summary: The Appeal of Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park’s Metasequoia Rows
Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park’s metasequoia rows are a full-fledged autumn foliage destination that can be easily visited from the greater Tokyo area. It is packed with charm that cannot be experienced elsewhere, including a magnificent 300-meter tree-lined path, harmony with a French-style garden, and spectacular views from the observation room.
From late November to early December when peak foliage occurs, you can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves that change from brick color to golden hues. Parking fees are reasonable and barrier-free accommodations are abundant, allowing people of all ages to comfortably enjoy autumn foliage viewing.
In autumn 2025, please enjoy a special autumn foliage experience at the metasequoia rows of Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park. Check the latest color change information before visiting and head out with your camera. It will surely become an unforgettable autumn memory.
View history
Information about the metasequoia rows at Kanagawa Prefectural Sagamihara Park is viewed by many people every year. Search numbers increase from late October as the foliage season approaches, with the highest access occurring from late November to early December during the peak viewing period.
When planning a visit, it’s convenient to bookmark this page. You can also share it on SNS or use it to share information with friends and family planning autumn foliage viewing. For the latest blooming status and information about special events, it is recommended to check with the official website or contact the management office.
Sagamihara Park’s metasequoia rows are a popular spot where many visitors become repeat customers after visiting once. Since the park displays a different face in each season, please visit again during other seasons besides autumn foliage.
