Kairakuen Garden

Kairakuen Garden (偕楽園) in Mito is one of Japan’s three most celebrated landscape gardens and is especially known for its stunning grove of over 3,000 plum trees. These trees bloom beautifully in white, pink, and red from late February to March, attracting many visitors during the annual Mito Plum Festival. Built in 1841 by Lord Tokugawa Nariaki, the garden was designed for both the local people and the ruling class, living up to its name meaning “a park to be enjoyed together.”

Apart from the plum trees, Kairakuen also has a bamboo grove, cedar woods, and the Kobuntei, a traditional building once used for learning and relaxing. From its upper floor, you can enjoy scenic views of the garden and Senba Lake. Just outside the park, you’ll find Tokiwa Shrine, which honors two local Tokugawa lords, Mitsukuni and Nariaki. It’s a peaceful spot blending nature, history, and seasonal charm.