The "Queen of the Sand Dunes," Japanese Lily, Begins to Bloom (Hitachi Seaside Park)

Japanese Lily blooming in the sand dune area (photographed July 6, 2026)

The Japanese Lily has begun to bloom in the "Sand Dune Area" of Hitachi Seaside Park. Its blooming heralds the arrival of summer, marking the start of the season. Known as the "Queen of the Sand Dunes" for its resilient beauty amidst strong sunlight and sea breezes, its vibrant orange flowers create a stunning contrast with the blue ocean, delighting visitors. The sand dune area in summer is also home to rare flora and fauna facing the threat of extinction.

Floral characteristics adapted to harsh environments

Distinctive reddish-brown spots (photographed July 1, 2026)

The Japanese Lily, native to Japan, belongs to the Liliaceae family and the Lilium genus. It is a perennial herb that grows 20-60 cm tall in sandy coastal areas. Its cup-shaped flowers, about 8-10 cm in diameter, bloom facing upwards, giving rise to the flower's language of "attracting attention." The name "sukashi" (meaning "transparent" or "open") comes from the way the lower part of the petals narrows, creating gaps that appear to be see-through. Blooming from the rainy season, the flower's shape allows rainwater to drain through the petal gaps, preventing water accumulation. It also exhibits adaptations to harsh environments, such as growing low to the ground to withstand strong sea winds.

【Japanese Lily】

Blooming Period

Early to mid-July

Location

Sand Dune Area

Rare Flora and Fauna Unique to Seaside Parks

The sand dune area of this park was formed by sand carried from the Kuji River, which accumulated on the coast and was then blown inland by the northeasterly winds. In the summer sand dune area, a diverse range of flora and fauna unique to seaside parks can be observed, including "Kawarasaiko" (False Chamomile) and "Kawaradeshiko" (Japanese Pink), both designated as Near Threatened in Ibaraki Prefecture, and the insect "Kawarahanmyo" (a type of tiger beetle), designated as Endangered by the Ministry of the Environment.

Kawarasaiko (photographed July 1, 2026) Near Threatened in Ibaraki Prefecture Kawaradeshiko (photographed July 1, 2026) Near Threatened in Ibaraki Prefecture

Conservation Activities by Park Volunteers

Selecting Japanese Lily seeds (photographed April 24, 2026)

Without conservation efforts, the Japanese Lily within this park faces the possibility of extinction in the future. The park has been engaged in propagation activities for the Japanese Lily since 2006, including artificial pollination, seed collection, sowing, seedling transplantation, and protection with nets. The park volunteers, known as "Wild Plant Partners," who carry out these activities, continue year-round efforts to protect the dune environment where rare flora and fauna inhabit and grow, including surveys of blooming plants, cultivation in fields, and propagation.

Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachi Park Management Center

Hitachi Seaside Park is located on the Pacific coast of Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy a rich tapestry of flowers throughout the seasons, including nemophila, narcissus, and tulips in spring; poppies and roses in early summer; zinnias and sunflowers in summer; and kochia and cosmos in autumn, as well as ice tulips in winter. The park also features "Pleasure Garden," an amusement park with attractions such as a large Ferris wheel offering panoramic views from 100 meters above sea level, and a roller coaster, as well as a forest athletic area and barbecue area. Whether you enjoy dining, sports, or picnics, the possibilities for enjoyment are endless. Please spend your time as you wish in this captivating park.

Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachi Park Management Center, Public Relations Section 605-4 Onuma, Mawatari, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture 312-0012 TEL: 029-265-9001 FAX: 029-265-9339

【Official Website】 https://hitachikaihin.jp/

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