偕楽園 – Kairakuen (literally ‘the garden to enjoy with people’) is one of Japan’s top three gardens. Its location close to Tokyo makes for a worthwhile day trip.
The garden is over 18 acres big and houses a large plum tree area (blooming early March), a gorgeous three-storey pavilion (Kobun-tei) and several small lakes. To enjoy the garden most visit it in the morning (to beat the crowds that arrive by the busload) on a sunny day.
Map of Kairakuen garden
Use this link to open the Kairakuen garden map on Google maps.
How to get there
Kairaku-en is located in the city of Mito. To get there depart from Tokyo’s Ueno station on the JR Joban line, the train ride to Mito takes just over an hour. From Mito station, take a bus to Kairakuen (about 10 minutes). The park is open year round, from 6:00 to 19:00 (February 20 to September 30) and 7:00 to 18:00 (October 1 to February 19). Entrance fee: free.
Kairakuen address: 1-1251 Migawa, Mito ibaraki (Tel. 029-244-5454)
Official website: www.koen.pref.ibaraki.jp
