Wintersweet (Robai)
Apparently, the Japanese name "Robai (wax Japanese apricot)" for wintersweet originated from the fact that the flowers feature wax-like petals and their blooms are very similar to "Ume (Japanese apricot)". One impressive feature of the wintersweet is that its little yellow flowers delicately bloom in winter, a time when flowers are few. Also impressive is its fragrance. Its sweet, gentle fragrance is not only effective in aroma therapy but is used in products such as perfume.
| Peak viewing season |
Late January to early March |
|---|---|
| Flower meaning |
"Elegance", "leading" |
*The best time to see the flowers may vary depending on the weather conditions.
Flower Walk spots
Hodosan Wintersweet Garden
Spreading over the top of Mt. Hodo, Wintersweet Garden contains about 3,000 wintersweet trees, whose flowers fill the air with a sweet, gentle fragrance. The garden offers superb views not only of the town below but of Mt. Buko and Mt. Ryokami. For beautiful scenery, a fragrant aroma, and a pleasant winter's day getaway, come to the Wintersweet Garden.
| Access |
Get off at Chichibu Railway's Nagatoro Station (about a 60-minute walk by hiking trail) |
|---|---|
| TEL |
0494-66-0307 (Nagatoro Tourist Information Center) |