Ikenohara Park

During the Meiji era, sheep grazed widely across Unzen, but they could not digest the native azaleas, so the shrubs gradually took over and became the defining feature of this hillside park. The sheep are gone, but the azaleas remain and are now actively maintained. Miyama-kirishima azaleas bloom in May, covering the slopes in pink, purple, and red. A second species, yama-tsutsuji, follows in June with reddish-orange flowers. The stone-paved paths through the park are relatively flat and offer views of three volcanic peaks: Yadake, Myoken, and Heisei Shinzan. A good walk for families or anyone who wants to be outside without a steep climb.