The Spider Lily is a flower that blooms in Japan each autumn. Its vibrant red petals, curved like spider legs, make it an unmistakable sight in rural and urban landscapes alike. But this flower is more than just a visual highlight—it holds deep symbolic meaning in Japanese culture, representing both...Continue Reading
Kinchakuda Manjushage Park: A Popular Spot for Spider Lilies, but Is It Worth the Crowds? Kinchakuda Manjushage Park in Saitama is well-known for its vibrant display of spider lilies (Manjushage or Higanbana), attracting thousands of visitors during the bloom. With fields of over five million bright red flowers, it is...Continue Reading
Visiting Byōdō-in Temple in Uji was the first point on my itinerary. You might already be familiar with it—its famous Phoenix Hall is featured on the back of the ¥10 coin. The temple was originally built in the Heian period as a villa, and later converted into a Buddhist temple...Continue Reading
In early August 2015, I visited the Adachi Museum of Art. Pictures of its gardens always appear here and there on the internet, and I was always moved by the beauty of this not old, but old-appearing garden. I set it on my garden bucket list. History of the Adachi...Continue Reading
Keio Mogusaen Garden in Tokyo is a hidden gem known for its seasonal plum blossoms and autumn leaves. A peaceful retreat with historic charm.Continue Reading
It is the end of February and we already hit the time of plum blossoms with only one month left until famous cherry blossom season starts! Today I want to introduce some gardens, which hosts great plum and/ or cherry trees! The early plum blossoms in Japanese gardens are often...Continue Reading
Top Spots in Japan for Stunning Autumn Foliage in 2024 Autumn in Japan is a breathtaking experience, with vibrant red, orange, and golden hues transforming landscapes across the country. Here’s our garden guide to Japan autumn foliage spots in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Hamamatsu, along with recommended hotels...Continue Reading
Today I want to introduce special openings and events in Kyoto during the autumn foliage. However, I won’t write of every special event as there are far too many! This is only a list of some examples. Most people who love Japanese Gardens dream of visiting Kyoto with its many, many temple...Continue Reading
Where to Stay in Kyoto: Hotels with Japanese Gardens or Near Famous Gardens Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, is home to some of the world’s most exquisite Japanese gardens. For travelers seeking serenity and traditional beauty, staying at a hotel with its own Japanese garden or near one of Kyoto’s iconic...Continue Reading