Exploring Koishikawa Botanical Garden｜A Secret Garden in Tokyo Before the Blooms

Last Saturday, as spring was in the air, I visited a hidden gem in the heart of Tokyo—Koishikawa Botanical Garden. Although the cherry blossom season hadn't arrived yet, the garden was already full of the joys of spring, with various plum blossoms in full bloom, as if announcing the arrival of spring. As soon as I stepped into the botanical garden, I was greeted by the plum grove. Pink, white, and red plum blossoms competed in beauty, their fragrance filling the air and intoxicating the senses. Strolling through the plum grove felt like being immersed in a sea of flowers, offering immense relaxation for both body and mind. Besides the plum grove, the greenhouse inside the botanical garden is also a must-see. It houses exotic flowers and plants from all over the world, boasting a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes that are truly a feast for the eyes. Here, you can experience the magic of nature and appreciate the unique flora of different regions. Of course, the charm of Koishikawa Botanical Garden extends far beyond this. The garden also features Japanese gardens, Western-style gardens, medicinal plant gardens, and other areas, each with its own unique scenery and charm. Wandering through them, you can experience different styles of garden art and appreciate the collision and fusion of different cultures. What I look forward to most is the autumn foliage tunnel in late autumn. Imagine strolling through a tunnel woven with red leaves, soft fallen leaves under your feet, the rustling sound of wind in your ears, and fiery red leaves before your eyes. How romantic and pleasant it must be! Although I didn't see the autumn foliage tunnel this time, the early spring Koishikawa Botanical Garden still left a deep impression on me. It's not only a great place to appreciate flowers but also a wonderful place to relax and immerse yourself in nature. If you're looking for a spontaneous trip, why not visit Koishikawa Botanical Garden? **Travel Tips:** * Address: 3-7-1 Hakusan, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo * Opening Hours: 9:00–16:30 (Last entry at 16:00) * Admission: Adults 500 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 150 yen * Transportation: Take the subway Marunouchi Line to Myogadani Station and walk for about 10 mins