A Taste of Japan in the Philippine Highlands

At the summit of Atok, Benguet, a remarkably cold place in Luzon, Philippines, lies this beautiful flower field, where this photo of my family was taken. Like the famous cherry blossoms of Japan, these flowers are in full bloom, creating an astonishing backdrop. Despite the difficult journey, the sheer beauty of nature in this location made the trip an unforgettable experience. This location is the Northern Blossom Flower Farm, and we were fortunate to arrive on what seemed to be the most beautiful day of the year, with all the flowers in full bloom. The farm showcases a remarkable variety of flowers rarely found elsewhere, making the experience truly amazing. Here are some amazing facts about the Northern Blossom Flower Farm in Atok, Benguet, Philippines: Home to Unique Blooms: The farm is known for cultivating flower varieties that are not commonly found in other parts of the Philippines or even the world. This includes the famed cabbage roses, which are ornamental hybrid species with dense, colorful petals resembling cabbages. Year-Round Blooms: Thanks to Atok's cool, mountainous climate, many of the flowers at Northern Blossom Flower Farm bloom throughout the year. This makes it a destination that can be enjoyed regardless of the season. Spectacular Mountain Views: Perched high in the Cordillera mountains, the farm offers panoramic vistas, including potential views of Mount Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon, and other prominent mountains like Mount Timbak and Mount Tabayoc on clear days. From Vegetable Farm to Floral Paradise: The land was originally a vegetable farm owned by the Ganayan family, who also run a flower shop in Manila's Dangwa Flower Market. They converted it into a flower farm and eventually opened it to the public due to increasing interest. Japanese Seedlings: Many of the flower seedlings grown at Northern Blossom, including the cabbage roses and some snapdragons, were imported from Japan, thriving in Atok's temperate environment. Edible Ornamentals: Interestingly, the cabbage roses, while primarily grown for their beauty, are reportedly edible, though they are mainly used for ornamental purposes. Photographer's Haven: The combination of vibrant flower fields and stunning mountain backdrops makes the farm a paradise for photographers, both professional and amateur. Local tour guides are often skilled in capturing the best angles. Sunrise and Sea of Clouds: Visiting early in the morning offers the chance to witness a beautiful sunrise over the mountains and, at times, a breathtaking "sea of clouds" rolling through the valleys. These facts highlight the unique charm and appeal of the Northern Blossom Flower Farm as a must-visit destination in the Philippines. #cherryblossoms2025 #flowers #travel #naturalwonders #familytravel #cherryblossom25