[Mount Hakodate] April hiking is a performance by the "Spring Fairies"! 6 wildflowers you want to see now

“Thank you for waiting. True spring has finally arrived at Mount Hakodate.”

Today, April 18th. As a guide, and as a mountain lover, I went on my long-awaited first hike of the year up Mount Hakodate. I headed to the summit via the Gotenyama Course.

As I made my way down the Shiomiyama Course, a scene unfolded before me where the 'spring ephemerals,' having all awakened from their winter slumber at once, seemed to be lined up to welcome me.

Being able to encounter so many star-quality flowers in a single hike is a privilege unique to this time of year.

I would like to introduce the six lovely flowers that were captured by my camera today.”

1. Rhododendron dauricum

It is this vivid pink that signals the start of spring in Hakodate.

Since the flowers bloom before the leaves appear, they have a beauty like lights being lit on the mountainside.

2. Corydalis ambigua

A blue carpet spreading out at my feet.

When I find a white individual occasionally mixed in among the translucent sky blue, it feels like I am treasure hunting.

3. Glaucidium palmatum

The 'Queen of Wildflowers' is still carefully protecting its buds for now.

There was an elegance to its pale purple form, adorned with raindrops, that is unique to the moments just before blooming.

4. Anemone pseudoaltaica

The way it spreads its white petals (actually sepals!) wide while basking in the sunlight is just like a child chasing the sun.

It suits the sunny spots of spring perfectly.

5. Potentilla fragarioides var. major

The origin of its name comes from the way its leaves spread radially on the ground, looking like a 'straw mat (mushiro) for a pheasant to sit on.'

When you think of it that way, it feels a bit luxurious, as if I've found a special seat in the mountains.

It was blooming proudly on a sunny slope, soaking up the spring light.”

6. Kojima-Enreiso (Trillium x miyabeanum)

And, the highlight of today. This dark red presence sets it apart from the common Trillium.

It is a rare hybrid that symbolizes Mount Hakodate.

As a guide, when I encounter this flower, I feel proud that I was able to show someone around Mount Hakodate.

Conclusion: Enjoying Hakodate's spring with all five senses

While we eagerly await the cherry blossoms, perhaps the Hakodate way to enjoy spring is to go and meet the wild plants that bloom quietly but powerfully at our feet.

Why don't you also visit Mount Hakodate to find your favorite flower?