There are a myriad of stunning traditional Japanese gardens across the country, including the likes of Ishikawa's Kenroku-en, the grounds of the Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane, and Kagawa's Ritsurin Garden. There are also plenty of gardens with some international influence, including a number that are inspired by English gardens. This guide provides an insight into several of them.
Yokohama English Garden, Kanagawa
A lovely destination for flower fans, the Yokohama English Garden is best known for its array of roses – there are over 1800 of them on the grounds in an incredible 1300 varieties. The full blooming calendar can be found on their official website, but other floral favorites here include cherry blossoms, tulips, and hydrangeas to name just a few.
6-1 Nishi-Hiranuma-cho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 220-0024
Matsue English Garden, Shimane
Matsue the capital of Shimane Prefecture, has an absolute wealth of things to do and see. The Matsue English Garden is just one of the great outdoorsy destinations in the area, and it's said to be one of the most authentic English gardens in Japan – it was designed with English gardener Keith Gott as the head gardener. At present the garden is closed due to renovation work, so please check their official website for updates before stopping by.
330-1 Nishihamasadacho, Matsue City, Shimane 690-0122
Biwako Otsukan English Garden, Shiga
In a stunning location with Lake Biwa as a backdrop, the Biwako Otsukan English Garden is home to a variety of seasonal flowers throughout the year. The grounds of the garden also boast a chapel which has become a popular wedding spot – it's not hard to understand why when you see the surroundings.
5-35 Yanagasaki, Otsu, Shiga 520-0022
Barakura English Garden, Nagano
Opened in 1990, Nagano's Barakura English Garden contains thousands of plant and flower species that were imported from England along with domestic plants used to complete the landscaping process. Drawing in over 200,000 visitors a year, the garden currently contains around 5000 plant varieties, with one of the highlights being almost 200 types of roses.
5047 Kuridaira, Kitayama, Chino-Shi, Nagano, 391-0301
