In early summer, Bense Marsh blooms all over with day lilies. Although famous spots for viewing day lilies can be found throughout Japan, this marsh is known for its rich carpet of yellow flowers that spreads as far as the eye can see. The gorgeous scenery has been selected as one of the best 100 natural sights in Japan. You can also enjoy views of Mount Iwaki towering in the distance beyond the yellow carpet of day lilies!

Around mid-June, the entire marsh turns yellow as the day lilies reach their peak bloom. Then, around early July, the marsh changes color from yellow to purple with great clusters of Japanese irises.

The marsh is also home to many wild birds, making it a popular birdwatching spot. The sound of birds chirping rings out across the quiet marsh, stirred only by gentle breezes.

A boardwalk has been installed that takes about thirty minutes to traverse. An observation deck and gazebo are also available along the way, so you can enjoy a relaxing stroll of the marsh while looking at clusters of flowers, Mount Iwaki, and adorable birds.

Bense Marsh is part of Tsugaru Quasi-National Park, which extends along the coast from the northern Tsugaru Peninsula to the border with Akita Prefecture. A driving trip is recommended to explore all the stunning and diverse natural scenery of this region, such as Mount Shirakami-dake and the Juniko (“twelve lakes”) area, a collection of numerous small lakes and ponds including Aoike Pond (part of the Shirakami Sanchi UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the sheer cliffs of Cape Tappi.

◆Day lilies: Peak bloom around mid-June

◆Japanese irises: Peak bloom around early July