A Tranquil Haven Known for its Awe-Inspiring Japanese Garden and Rich History
Indulge in the splendor of the Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park, an awe-inspiring realm where one can retreat from the clamor and delve into the magnificence of a Japanese garden.
Formerly a nobleman’s urban villa for Prince Tanehito, this park boasts a rich history dating back to the Edo period, during which it was possessed by a feudal lord from the former Morioka Domain. Since then, it has been repurposed into a public verdant space, spanning an area of over 67,000 square meters, proffering a tranquil haven for visitors.
As you traverse the unpaved pathways and cross a stone bridge, appreciate the assorted landscapes of rolling hills, serene valleys, peaceful ponds, and babbling brooks. The park’s tiers ensure that there is always something novel to discover, be it the heavily wooded region at the base replete with streams, waterfalls, and ponds or the grand plaza on the tier above, coupled with an adjoining playground for children, dominated by an equestrian statue of Prince Arisugawa Taruhito.
Irrespective of the season, the Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park has something to offer. In spring, witness the beauty of plum and cherry blossoms, in summer bask in the colors of irises and hydrangeas, in fall marvel at the golden gingkoes and crimson Japanese maples, and in February, be captivated by the stunning plum blossoms.
But it’s not merely the park’s man-made features that make it extraordinary. The park is also home to an array of birds and insects, contributing to its allure and fostering a sense of tranquility that belies its urban location. And best of all, the park is open 24/7 and admission is free, rendering it accessible and convenient for all.
