Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kairakuen Garden, located in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous gardens, and is counted among Japan's three most famous gardens (Kenrokuen, Korakuen, and Kairakuen). It was originally developed in 1842 (Tenpo 13) by Tokugawa Nariaki (Tokugawa Nariaki, Nariaki's name is "Keio"), the lord of the Mito domain, as a place for his retainers and subjects to enjoy. The garden is home to around 3,000 plum trees (approximately 100 varieties) and other plants that change with the seasons, and the Plum Festival attracts many visitors, especially in early spring when the plum blossoms bloom.
Kobuntei, located within the garden, is a historic structure built by Nariaki, and was designed so that visitors could view the garden and distant scenery from the teahouse and tatami room. One of the great attractions of Kairakuen is that you can experience Mito's history and natural scenery at the same time.
Highlights
- Plum Grove: There are about 3,000 plum trees of 100 varieties planted in the garden, and each variety blooms at different times, allowing you to enjoy the view for a long period of time. The Plum Festival (usually held from mid-February to late March) is particularly busy.
- Kobuntei: A tower that still retains the architecture of the Edo period. You can tour the interior (for a fee) and enjoy the garden and distant views.
- The garden scenery around Kobuntei: You can enjoy the traditional layout of a Japanese garden, including artificial hills, ponds, and strolling gardens.
- Flowers and trees of all seasons: Even outside of the plum season, you can enjoy the seasonal beauty of azaleas, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and more.
- Kodokan (nearby): This was the domain school of the Mito domain, and visiting it together with Kairakuen will deepen your understanding of history.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest major station: JR Mito Station - easily accessible by bus or taxi from the station.
- Bus: From the north exit of Mito Station, take the Ibaraki Kotsu bus bound for Kairakuen (bound for "Kairakuen" or "Kairakuen/Senba Lake") for about 10 to 15 minutes, then walk a few minutes from the bus stop.
- Walking: Approximately 2-3km from Mito Station, 20-40 minutes on foot (depending on stamina and route).
- By car: Approximately 20-30 minutes from Mito IC on the Joban Expressway. Paid parking is available around the park (it can get crowded during peak season).
- Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes from Mito Station.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour (for a quick tour around the garden)
- Leisurely tour: 1.5 to 3 hours (including a tour of the interior of Kobuntei, a stroll through the plum grove, and the nearby Kodokan)
- During festivals and events: Half a day to a full day (time required may be longer depending on crowds and event programs)
Nearby spots
- Kodokan: A domain school of the Mito domain adjacent to Kairakuen. Its historical buildings and gardens are worth seeing.
- Lake Senba: A lake that stretches to the west of Kairakuen. You can stroll around the lake, take a boat, and enjoy the lakeside scenery.
- Art Tower Mito: A cultural facility with modern architecture and hosting concerts and exhibitions (accessible on foot or by bus).
- Mito Castle Ruins (around Kodokan): The castle ruins and park have been developed and are perfect for strolling.
- Restaurants and souvenir shops around Mito Station: You can enjoy local specialties (such as natto dishes).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The plum blossom festival (usually from mid-February to late March) is extremely crowded. We recommend visiting early in the morning (right after the park opens) or on a weekday.
- Admission and tour times: Facilities such as Kobuntei have different tour times, closing days, and admission fees, so please check the official website in advance.
- Manners: Please follow the rules of the garden, such as not touching plants, not picking flowers, and viewing from designated areas. Please take your trash with you or dispose of it in the designated area.
- Footing and clothing: The park has unpaved paths and uneven areas. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. In winter, the ground may be slippery due to ice and snow.
- Pets: There may be rules regarding bringing pets. Please check in advance and be considerate of other visitors.
- Climate and flower viewing times: The best time to see the plum blossoms varies from year to year. For the latest information on flowering, please check the tourist information of Ibaraki Prefecture or Mito City.
(Additional Information) Before visiting, it is a good idea to check the official Kairakuen website or the Mito City Tourist Information for the latest information on opening hours, events, and access.
