Sirao Flower Garden | Cebu City

Information

Landmark: Sirao Flower Garden
City: Cebu City
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Sirao Flower Garden, Cebu City, Philippines, Asia

Sirao Flower Garden

The Sirao Flower Garden, also known as the "Little Amsterdam of Cebu," is a popular mountain attraction located in the highlands of Busay, Cebu City. There are two adjacent gardens: the original Sirao Garden (Little Amsterdam) and the Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site (PGCS).

Visual Characteristics

The site features expansive fields of vibrant Celosia flowers (woolflowers) in shades of bright red and yellow. The architecture is European-inspired, featuring replicas of Dutch windmills, a giant "hand" structure for photo opportunities, and various colorful Balinese-style nests and swings. The garden is set against a backdrop of rolling green mountains.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Sirao Garden, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu.

Access: Located in the mountain barangay of Sirao, approximately 17 km from the city center.

Transport: * Private Vehicle/Taxi: The most convenient method; travel time is 45–60 minutes.

Habal-habal (Motorcycle Taxi): Available from JY Square Mall in Lahug.

Entry: Each garden charges a separate entrance fee.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The attraction began as a private flower farm intended for the local market. In 2015, photos of the blooming Celosias went viral on social media, transforming the agricultural site into a major tourist destination. The Celosias are seasonal but are often replanted to ensure year-round availability for tourists.

Key Highlights & Activities

Photography: The "Giant Hand" and Dutch windmills are the primary photo spots.

Flower Appreciation: Observation of Celosias, sunflowers, and other tropical blooms.

Mini Amsterdam: The original garden features the iconic windmill replicas.

Sirao Pictorial Garden (PGCS): Offers additional structures like a swimming pool, more elaborate nests, and camping facilities.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The gardens provide basic footpaths, though they can be uneven and muddy after rain. Small stalls at the entrance sell local snacks, refreshments, and plants. Public restrooms are available within the premises. 5G cellular coverage is intermittent.

Best Time to Visit

Operating Hours: Typically 08:00 to 17:30.

Morning (08:00–10:00): Cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.

Season: While flowers are maintained year-round, the gardens are most lush during the dry season (January to May).

Facts & Legends

The Celosia flowers are locally known as "Burlas." The transformation of Sirao from a quiet farming village to a tourist hub is credited entirely to social media exposure, leading to the development of the "Transcentral Highway" tourism circuit.