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January 11, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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February 20, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Matsuda Wintersweet Festival is a charming winter event held in the Yadoriki area of Matsuda Town, Kanagawa Prefecture. The festival celebrates the wintersweet plant, known locally as rōbai (蝋梅), which blooms with bright yellow, fragrant flowers during the cold winter months.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The tradition of admiring wintersweet flowers in Matsuda has grown over the years, with local farmers and community members cultivating tens of thousands of these plants to create spectacular winter landscapes. Today, the festival draws visitors from across Kanagawa and beyond, providing an opportunity to appreciate nature’s beauty in a peaceful, rural setting.
In addition to floral displays, the festival showcases local crafts and culinary treats, giving visitors a taste of Matsuda’s regional culture. It has become an annual winter highlight for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Overview
The 2026 Matsuda Wintersweet Festival runs from mid-January to mid-February, offering visitors the chance to wander through a stunning garden of over 20,000 wintersweet plants. The striking yellow blooms fill the air with a gentle, sweet fragrance, creating a serene and picturesque winter environment.
On weekends and public holidays, festival-goers can enjoy local food and craft stalls, providing seasonal treats and handmade items. Visitors can also participate in hands-on experiences at the nearby dyeing experience center, where for 1,000 yen, they can dye handkerchiefs, bandanas, and other small items.
The festival is a peaceful and family-friendly event, perfect for a leisurely stroll, photography, and connecting with nature during winter.
Highlights
- Over 20,000 wintersweet (rōbai) plants in full bloom
- Fragrant yellow flowers creating a scenic and immersive winter garden
- Local food stalls offering seasonal treats on weekends
- Craft stalls featuring handmade items and traditional products
- Dyeing experience center on weekends and public holidays for hands-on cultural activities
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Witness one of Kanagawa’s most beautiful winter floral displays
- Enjoy the fragrant, picturesque atmosphere created by thousands of wintersweet flowers
- Experience local culture through food, crafts, and traditional dyeing activities
- Family-friendly event suitable for nature lovers, photographers, and tourists
- Easily accessible from Shin-Matsuda Station via bus and a short walk
If you are visiting Japan or already in Japan and need any help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation, ticket booking, or other assistance—contact us through the Jasumo contact page.
Schedule
Date: Mid January – Mid February 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: Yadoriki Wintersweet Garden (Yadoriki Robai Garden), Matsuda Town, Kanagawa Prefecture
Pricing
- Adults (16 and older): ¥500
- Children under 16: Free
- Additional charges may apply for hands-on dyeing experiences (¥1,000 per item)
Location
Yadoriki Wintersweet Garden
3415 Yadoriki, Matsuda, Ashigarakami District, Kanagawa 258-0001, Japan
How to get there:
- By Bus: From the North Exit of Shin-Matsuda Station, take a bus bound for Yadoriki (~30 minutes) and walk 8 minutes to the garden.
- By Car: Parking may be available nearby; check ahead for availability during peak festival days.
Accommodation Options
Matsuda and nearby Odawara offer a range of accommodation options, including small inns, guesthouses, and hotels. Staying in nearby towns allows visitors to explore Kanagawa’s scenic areas and enjoy a peaceful rural environment.
Average nightly costs range from ¥6,000–¥12,000 ($45–$90 USD). Early booking is recommended for weekends during the festival period.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit the festival?
The festival runs from mid-January to mid-February, with peak blooms typically occurring in late January.
How much does it cost to enter the garden?
Admission is ¥500 for adults (16 and older), while children under 16 can enter for free.
Are there hands-on activities available?
Yes, visitors can participate in dyeing experiences at the nearby center on weekends and public holidays for ¥1,000 per item.
How do I get to Yadoriki Wintersweet Garden?
Take a bus from Shin-Matsuda Station North Exit (~30 minutes) and walk 8 minutes to the garden.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Absolutely! The event is suitable for families, photographers, nature enthusiasts, and tourists seeking a relaxing winter outing.
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