May is a wonderful time to visit Japan’s numerous gardens and parks, as the cherry blossoms may have faded but the lush greenery and vibrant flowers have taken their place. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling city, there’s no shortage of stunning outdoor spaces to explore in Japan.
One of the most famous gardens in Japan is the Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa, which has been designated as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The garden features a large pond, winding streams, and numerous tea houses, all surrounded by carefully manicured trees and plants. Another popular garden is the Kairakuen Garden in Mito, which is known for its more than 3,000 plum trees that bloom in early spring. In May, visitors can enjoy the park’s azaleas and other seasonal flowers.
For those looking for a more unique experience, the Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture is a must-visit. The park features over 350 wisteria trees, including a massive wisteria tunnel that stretches for over 100 meters. Visitors can also enjoy other seasonal flowers such as roses and tulips.
In addition to gardens, there are also numerous parks throughout Japan that offer a relaxing escape from the city. One of the most popular is Yoyogi Park in Tokyo, which features wide open spaces, cherry blossom trees, and a large pond. Another popular park is Maruyama Park in Kyoto, which is known for its large weeping cherry tree that is illuminated at night during the cherry blossom season.
May is the perfect time to visit Japan’s beautiful gardens and parks, as the weather is mild and the flowers are in full bloom. From traditional Japanese gardens to sprawling city parks, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Located in the heart of Tokyo, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a peaceful oasis in the midst of a bustling city. The park is home to over 20,000 trees, including cherry blossoms, and features three distinct garden styles: French Formal, English Landscape, and Japanese Traditional. Visitors can stroll along the paths, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is a historic park located in the heart of Kyoto. The park was once the site of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and today features beautiful gardens and cherry blossom trees. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace, stroll through the gardens, or simply relax on the park’s lawns.
Located in Okayama, Korakuen Garden is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. The garden was originally built in the early 1700s and features a large pond, teahouses, and beautiful cherry blossom trees. Visitors can explore the garden’s many paths and admire the stunning scenery.
Nara Park is located in the ancient city of Nara and is home to over 1,200 wild deer. Visitors can feed and interact with the deer, as well as visit the park’s many temples and shrines. The park is also home to a beautiful cherry blossom grove, which is a popular spot for picnics and hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
The Meguro River is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo. The river is lined with over 800 cherry blossom trees, which create a beautiful pink tunnel effect when in bloom. Visitors can stroll along the river and enjoy the cherry blossoms, as well as visit the nearby cafes and shops.
