Kairakuen

Kairakuen is a historic garden in Mito, known for its plum trees and its place among Japan’s three great gardens. Around 3,000 trees, representing about 100 varieties, flower in late winter and early spring. Beyond the blossom groves, follow paths through bamboo and Japanese cedar, then visit Kobuntei, a traditional villa with views across Senba Lake. The garden was created by Tokugawa Nariaki in the mid-19th century for the enjoyment of both the domain’s rulers and the public. In other seasons, expect a greener, quieter landscape.

A garden created for shared enjoyment

Kairakuen was established by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth lord of the Mito domain, in the mid-19th century. Its name expresses the idea of enjoying the garden together. Unlike gardens made for the exclusive use of a ruling family, Kairakuen was intended to be open to the people of the domain as well.

The garden was conceived alongside Kodokan, a domain school where retainers studied. The two places served different purposes: Kodokan was associated with study, while Kairakuen provided a place for recreation. A monument at the site refers to this pairing as a balance between effort and relaxation.

Plum trees and seasonal changes

Kairakuen is especially known for its plum blossoms. Its grounds contain about 3,000 trees and roughly 100 varieties, which flower in late winter and early spring. Different varieties bring different colours to the orchard, so the display changes as the season progresses. The Mito Plum Blossom Festival is held at the garden during the flowering period.

Outside blossom season, the view changes. Summer brings a predominantly green landscape, while autumn colours have been noted around the entrance. The garden remains a place for a walk, but the plum orchard is the main reason to time a visit for late winter or early spring.