Shiawase no Mori Park

Opened in 2017, Shiawase no Mori Park is a natural park covering approximately 56,195 square meters. Located on a hill behind Michi-no-Eki Katsuragi, it’s about a 12-minute walk from the Katsuragi roadside station bus stop to the park entrance.

The park features two spacious lawn areas, making it an ideal place for leisurely activities such as picnics or walking pets. From mid-April to early May each year, around 30,000 moss phlox plants bloom spectacularly on the park’s north-facing slope. The hillside transforms into a vibrant sea of pink, creating a stunning view. Visitors can relax on the grass and soak in the beauty of the flower-covered hill.

At the center of the park is a staircase with 184 steps leading to an observation deck at the top. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Yamato Plain and the Yamato Sanzan mountains. On clear days, the scenery extends as far as Nara City and Kyoto. The staircase runs straight through the phlox field, so during the blooming season, you can experience the sensation of being surrounded by flowers.

The observation deck is also a popular night view spot, offering a 180-degree panoramic vista. The lights remain on until 9:00 p.m., but turn off afterward, so visitors coming at night should plan accordingly.