Parks and Gardens in Japan
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Among the many sightseeing spots in Japan, we will introduce parks and gardens by prefecture.
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Table of contents
Tokyo Prefecture
Shinjuku Gyoen is a modern Western-style garden located in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo. In addition to three types of gardens - a Japanese landscape garden, a landscape garden, and a formal garden - it also features areas such as the "Mother and Child's Forest," where you can interact with nature and wildlife. It's also known as a popular spot for cherry blossoms, attracting many tourists in the spring. Furthermore, it's loved as a park where you can experience the changing seasons of nature.
Ueno Onshi Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan, housing facilities like Ueno Zoo and Tokyo National Museum within its premises. Known as a prime cherry blossom viewing spot, the park bustles with visitors during the sakura bloom season. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy boat rides on Shinobazu Pond within the park, and during summer, witness the pond blanketed with blooming lotus flowers. The park is also famous for a statue of Saigo Takamori, affectionately referred to as "Ueno's Saigo-san".
Yoyogi Park, located in Tokyo, offers a vibrant urban oasis filled with lush greenery, walking paths, and picturesque ponds. It is a perfect spot for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities, while also serving as a cultural hub with its iconic Meiji Shrine. Embrace the energetic atmosphere as you witness street performances, art, and various events throughout the year.
Hama Rikyu Gardens is a historic and tranquil Japanese garden located in central Tokyo, featuring beautiful ponds, teahouses, and meticulously landscaped greenery. With its stunning contrast to the surrounding modern skyscrapers, the garden offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, traditional tea ceremonies, and scenic views while strolling along the picturesque pathways.
Inokashira Park is a serene oasis in bustling Tokyo, featuring a picturesque pond perfect for boating and leisurely strolls. The park boasts lush greenery, walking paths, and a lively atmosphere with street performers and local festivals. It is also home to the enchanting Ghibli Museum, showcasing the magical world of Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki's creations.
Kanagawa Prefecture
Yamashita Park, located in Yokohama, Japan, offers stunning waterfront views, lush green spaces, and a relaxing atmosphere. The park is home to historical monuments, including the Hikawa Maru ship and the Indian Water Tower, providing visitors with a unique blend of history and natural beauty. It's a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll, picnics, and enjoying Yokohama's vibrant cityscape.
Aichi Prefecture
Aichi Farm offers a delightful and interactive experience for visitors, featuring a wide range of farm animals to interact with and observe. The farm provides engaging activities such as horseback riding, cow milking, and animal feeding, making it an ideal destination for families with children. In addition to the hands-on experiences, the picturesque landscape and seasonal flower displays create a serene and relaxing atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Gifu Prefecture
Hirugano Plateau, situated in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, is a scenic destination offering year-round outdoor activities and breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, visitors can enjoy seasonal attractions, such as vibrant flower fields, autumn foliage, and snow-covered landscapes. With family-friendly attractions, skiing and snowboarding facilities, and tranquil nature trails, Hirugano Plateau offers a refreshing escape for all ages.
Nagano Prefecture
Jigokudani Monkey Park, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a unique and captivating tourist attraction known for its wild Japanese macaques, or "snow monkeys," that inhabit the area. Visitors can observe these fascinating creatures up close as they go about their daily routines, including bathing in the natural hot springs to keep warm during the cold winter months. Surrounded by the picturesque beauty of the Japanese Alps, Jigokudani Monkey Park offers an unforgettable experience, immersing tourists in the wonder of Japan's native wildlife and breathtaking natural landscape.
Daio Wasabi Farm, located in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, is one of the largest wasabi farms in Japan. Near the farm flows the Tate River, fed by meltwater from the Northern Alps, along which stand three watermill huts that have become popular photo spots. Additionally, within the farm, you can also savor popular treats like wasabi ice cream.
National Alps Azumino Park is a vast national park stretching at the foot of the Northern Alps. The park consists of the Horikane/Hotaka area and the Omachi/Matukawa area, each with different characteristics. In the Horikane-Hotaka area, visitors can relax and enjoy the Alpine scenery and experience local nature and culture. The Omachi/Matukawa area has five areas for day camping, athletic activities, picnicking, and river play.
Kyoto Prefecture
Maruyama Park, located in Kyoto's Gion district, offers a serene escape with its lush greenery, picturesque pond, and meandering paths. Famous for its spectacular cherry blossoms in spring, the park is a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) parties. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, relax in tranquil settings, and explore nearby attractions such as Yasaka Shrine and Chion-in Temple.
Nara Prefecture
Nara Park is a park located in Nara City, Nara Prefecture. It is famously known for the numerous deer that roam its vicinity. The exact boundaries of Nara Park can vary depending on the definition, but it may encompass sites such as Todai-ji, Kofuku-ji, Kasuga Taisha, the Nara National Museum, Wakakusa-yama, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. Generally, the surrounding temples and shrines are also referred to as part of Nara Park.
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Thank you for reading to the end.
( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
