Beautiful contrasts of blue and yellow in Futami-cho, Ehime

Futami-cho in Ehime Prefecture is popular forits beautiful field of canola flowers. When they are in full bloom during the spring, people enjoy its landscape with passing trains.

Cute yellow flowers, canola flowers, spread widely in the field

When spring is just around the corner in Japan, many different kinds of flower start blooming and they invite people to come outside to see them. For Futami-cho in Ehime Prefecture, which locates in Shikoku Region, flowers that bring people out are canola flowers. They start blooming from the end of February and last throughout March.

The local trains go along with the canola field and people feel relaxing air

Futami-cho is a popular spot for photographers, especially who love taking photos of trains. The canola flower spreads along the JR Yosan Line. JR Yosan Line runs through Shikoku region. It departs from Takamatsu in Kagawa Prefecture and stops at Iyo-Ozu in Ehime Prefecture. The trail is aligned parallel with the Inland Sea coast so passengers can enjoy the calm sea view from the trail. People can shoot exquisite two shots of the local train and the canola field in Futami-cho.

Just like JR Yosan Line, the route 378 goes along the coastline of Seto Inland Sea. Therefore, driving a car along the coastline on route 378 is also a good way to enjoy the amazing view of canola flowers and the sea. There are spaces to park along the road so people can stop on the road to take a walk or to take beautiful photos.

Furthermore, on weekends, a special train called “Iyonada Monogatari”, which means the story of Iyonada in Japanese, runs. Iyonada is the name of sea that is around the train rails. Iyonada Monogatari is a sightseeing train which targets on tourists. Tourists can enjoy stunning views with local cuisines provided in the train.

The seasonal events to celebrate spring are held by locals

Canola flowers in Futami-cho have been planted by the locals over 30 years ago. You can walk next to the flower field, but walking inside the field is prohibited.

There are several festivals and events in March when canola flowers are in full bloom. One of the most famous events is Shiokaze Walk Nanohana Taikai. It is the event of walking along the canola flowers. The walking starts from Iyo-Nagahama Station of the JR Yosan Line and ends at Iyo-Kaminada Station. Its course is about the 16km long. There are small shops during the walk where participants can purchase local foods there. The closing ceremony is held in Futami Seaside Park.

The great view of ocean from seaside is another attraction of Futami-cho

Futami Seaside Park is a popular spot to see beautiful sunsets. The park is located next to the beach and a large parking place is available there. The observation deck in the park is facing the ocean so many people go there to see the sunset. Actually, this park is chosen as one of the top 100 best spots in Japan for the beautiful sunsets.

There is a monument similar to Love Locks in the park and it is popular especially to couples. It is believed that if couples come together and fix padlocks to railings in the park, it ensures them everlasting love. Besides the monument, Futami Seaside Park also has Michi-no-Eki Futami next to it. Michi-no-Eki is a resting area where local foods and souvenirs are available. It is a perfect place for people who want to enjoy dazzling sunset in a nice seating in restaurants. Foods made with citrus fruits and local fish called Jakoten are must-eat dishes.

How to visit?

Address: Shimoagawa 1512-6, Iyo, Ehime Prefecture (Iyo Tourism Office)
Tel：+81-89-994-5852

Reference List

https://www.iyokannet.jp/event/5410
https://setouchifinder.com/en/detail/474