Japan is famous for its natural beauty, with lush greenery and calm ponds being popular images. Japanese gardens are well-known for being tranquil places where one can relax and enjoy the scenery. They are also vibrant gardens that were created with the intention of bringing a sense of balance in one’s life. The oldest Japanese garden in Japan is the Koishikawa Botanical Gardens, which began as a medicinal herb garden, and has evolved to include dozens of species, a boardwalk, and a museum.
History
The Koishikawa Botanical Gardens were established in 1684 by the fifth shogun of the Tokugawa family, Tsunayoshi. They are located on the grounds of the University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku. Though first created as a medicinal herb garden, the scope of the gardens expanded over the years, thanks to the efforts of the successive generations of shoguns. Many different types of plants from around Japan, as well as from other countries, were brought together and labeled for others to learn from and admire.
Koishikawa Botanical Garden was the first ever public botanical garden established in Japan, and it served as a prototype for establishing other botanical gardens around the country. The garden now occupies an area of 19.7 hectares (48.7 acres), and consists of the main garden, a herb garden, wetland, a green leaf area, and a school garden.
Features of the garden
The Koishikawa Botanical Gardens are home to many different species of plants, including lilies, roses, irises, magnolias, and many more. The gardens are particularly famous for their cherry blossom trees, which bloom vividly in spring, drawing in crowds of people to enjoy the sights and smells of the flowers.
The Wetland Garden, a seven-acre section of the gardens, is a protected habitat for a variety of water plants and animals, including many types of waterfowl. A boardwalk winds around the various sections of the wetland, allowing visitors to see the different species at close range. Visitors can also feed some of the wildlife, with some of the more exotic birds like black swans and herons being regulars.
Another noteworthy feature of the Koishikawa Botanical Gardens is the museum that is housed within. The garden houses Japan’s oldest herbarium, which has specimens dating back to the 1700s. The museum is open all year, and has displays of many different types of plants, including over 800 different species of fungi and over 6,000 dried specimens of plants.
Conclusion
Koishikawa Botanical Gardens is one of Japan’s most serene and beautiful venues, which has managed to evolve and expand over the years since its inception. Established as a medicinal herb garden, it now boasts a wide variety of flora and fauna, a wetland garden and museum. The gardens attract many visitors each year, who appreciate the peace, tranquility, and natural beauty that the gardens provide. Visiting Koishikawa Botanical Gardens should be a must-do activity for any tourist to Japan who is seeking to experience the country’s natural beauty and rich history.
FAQ
Where are the 3 Great gardens of Japan?
The Three Great Gardens of Japan, or Nihon Sanmeien, are considered to be the three most famous and beautiful gardens in Japan. These gardens are known for their striking aesthetics, historical significance, and cultural importance. In Japan, gardens have been considered a form of art since ancient times, and the Three Great Gardens are among the finest examples of this art.
The first of these gardens is Kenroku-en, located in Kanazawa. Kenroku-en is known for its diverse range of plant life, including cherry trees, pine trees, and plum trees. The garden is also home to a large pond and several hills, which provide visitors with varying views of the garden throughout the year. In addition to its natural beauty, Kenroku-en is also home to a number of historic structures, including a tea house and a traditional Japanese-style house.
The second of these gardens is Kōraku-en, located in Okayama. Kōraku-en is known for its expansive lawns and picturesque carp ponds, which are home to hundreds of colorful koi fish. The garden is also home to several historic structures, including a traditional Japanese-style teahouse and a small shrine. Kōraku-en is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season, when the garden’s many cherry trees are in full bloom.
Finally, the third of these gardens is Kairaku-en, located in Mito. Kairaku-en is known for its beautiful plum trees, which are typically in bloom from mid-February to mid-March. The garden is also home to several small waterfalls and ponds, which contribute to its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. In addition, Kairaku-en is home to several historic structures, including a traditional Japanese-style bridge, a tea house, and a shrine.
The Three Great Gardens of Japan are considered to be national treasures and are an important part of Japan’s cultural heritage. Visitors to these gardens can experience the beauty of traditional Japanese-style gardens while also learning about Japan’s history and cultural traditions.
What are Japan’s three best landscape gardens?
Japan is known for its stunning gardens that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also symbolize the country’s culture and traditions. The country is home to many magnificent gardens, but the Kenrokuen garden in Kanazawa, the Korakuen garden in Okayama, and the Kairakuen garden in Mito are considered to be the “Three Great Garden in Japan.”
The Kenrokuen garden is located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture, and is known for its pristine beauty. It was built in the Edo period and has been maintained for over 200 years, making it one of Japan’s oldest gardens. The garden covers an area of approximately 11 hectares and features many elements such as ponds, streams, teahouses, waterfalls, and bridges. The garden’s standout feature is the famous Kotoji-toro lantern, which, when reflected on the surface of the pond, creates a stunning image.
The Korakuen garden in Okayama is another garden that is held in high regard. It was built in 1700 and took over 14 years to complete. The garden is situated on the banks of the Asahi River, which serves as the backdrop. The garden has stunning views of the surrounding area, which is known for its Japanese castle. The garden is also known for its fall leaves and cherry blossoms, which attract a lot of visitors.
The Kairakuen garden in Mito is situated in the city of Mito, Ibaraki prefecture, and is the third garden on the list of “Three Great Gardens in Japan.” This garden was built in the Edo period and covers an area of approximately 13 hectares. The garden has over 3,000 plum trees, and the Plum Festival is held every year in February. The garden also has a beautiful pond that is surrounded by hills and forests.
The Kenrokuen garden in Kanazawa, the Korakuen garden in Okayama, and the Kairakuen garden in Mito are considered the three best landscape gardens in Japan. These gardens are not just aesthetically pleasing but also serve as a symbol of Japan’s culture and traditions. A visit to these gardens is a must for anyone who appreciates Japanese architecture and culture.