Kairakuen

One of Japan's three great gardens in Mito, famous for its 3,000 plum trees blooming in spring.

Kairakuen in Mito is one of Japan's three great gardens, established in 1842 by feudal lord Tokugawa Nariaki. The garden is most famous for its 3,000 plum trees of over 100 varieties, creating a spectacular display from late February to March during the annual Mito Plum Festival. Nariaki designed the garden for public enjoyment, making it one of Japan's earliest public parks. The adjacent bamboo grove and cedar forest provide year-round interest.