■ Overview (history, characteristics, appeal)
Horikiri Iris Garden is an urban flower garden in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, where you can enjoy irises (ayame, hanashobu). Irises have been cultivated in this area since ancient times, and today a wide variety of varieties bloom every year from late May to June, creating a spectacular floral landscape. The garden is easily accessible from central Tokyo, and its appeal lies in the fact that you can easily enjoy seasonal flowers in the scenery of the old downtown area, which exudes an Edo atmosphere. The sight of the irises blooming along the walking paths, ponds, and waterside areas swaying in the breeze makes it a popular photo spot.
■Highlights
– Large colonies of irises: A spectacle of a wide variety of irises blooming together in a cluster, with different colors and shapes. A rich variety of colors, including white, purple, yellow, and stripes.
- Waterside scenery: A tranquil landscape of irises blooming along the ponds and waterways, interwoven with the surrounding greenery and old houses.
- Photo spot: Not only can you take close-up shots of flowers, but you can also take photos with the downtown buildings and bridges in the background.
- Events during the period: Light-ups, exhibitions, and local events may be held to coincide with the peak iris viewing season (please check each year to see if events are being held).
■Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Keisei Electric Railway's Horikiri Shobuen Station is the closest, and you can walk there. There are also Tokyo Metropolitan Bus routes in the area.
- Private car: Parking is limited as the area around the school is a residential area. We recommend using public transportation.
– Walking distance: It usually takes a few minutes to 10 minutes to get there from the station (depending on the exit and route).
*Please check the latest transfer information and bus routes before departing.
■ Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing the irises only: 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you want to take your time taking photos and taking breaks, it's best to allow 1-2 hours.
– Including a stroll around the area: 2-3 hours (half a day to a full day if combining with nearby attractions).
■ Nearby spots
– Shibamata (Taishakuten): A representative tourist spot in Katsushika Ward. You can enjoy the traditional atmosphere of the traditional approach to the shrine and famous Japanese sweet shops.
– Yagiri Ferry: A ferry across the Edogawa River. You can see the picturesque riverside scenery.
– Arakawa Riverbank: Enjoy walking or cycling along the riverbank (you can also observe flowers and birds depending on the season).
– Local shopping district and restaurants: There are restaurants and souvenir shops that you can stop by before or after viewing the irises.
■Points to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
– Crowds: The peak viewing season (usually late May to early June) is crowded on weekends and public holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on a weekday morning.
- Manners: Please follow the rules of the park, such as not touching or stepping on the flowers, taking your trash with you, and whether pets are allowed in the park and keeping them on leashes. When taking photos, please be considerate to other visitors.
- Footing: The park has walking paths, stone steps, and areas close to wetlands. Please wear comfortable shoes.
- Weather and season: Viewing the flowers may be difficult on rainy or windy days. Be careful of temperature changes and insects (mosquitoes) during the rainy season. The flowering period varies from year to year, so be sure to check the flowering information before visiting.
- Local transportation: During the peak viewing season, surrounding roads and stations may be congested. We recommend using public transportation and planning with plenty of time.
Please use the above information to enjoy the seasonal flowers and downtown atmosphere at Horikiri Iris Garden. If necessary, we can also provide a best viewing time calendar and the latest access information (station exits, bus routes, parking lots). Please let us know if you would like this information.
