59th Mito Bush Clover Festival

Event Overview

The 59th Mito Bush Clover Festival is a classic autumn event held at Kairakuen in Mito, Ibaraki. This historic garden was established by Tokugawa Nariaki to be a place where people could enjoy nature together. The festival celebrates the arrival of autumn with the blooming of approximately 750 bush clover plants, including varieties like Miyagino-hagi and White Bush Clover.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attraction is the sea of bush clover flowers blooming in the crisp autumn air. The view of the flowers against the historic Komon-tei pavilion is a quintessential Japanese landscape. During the festival, the garden is illuminated at night, offering a mystical and romantic atmosphere that differs greatly from the daytime scenery.

Schedule

Venue & Access

The venue is Kairakuen in Mito, Ibaraki.

• *By Public Transport**
• Take a bus from JR Mito Station North Exit (Platforms 4 or 6) for about 20 minutes.
• A temporary station, Kairakuen Station, may be established during certain seasons.
• *By Car**
• Approximately 20 minutes from the Mito IC on the Joban Expressway.
• Please use the Kairakuen Shimo Parking lot or nearby public parking.

Tips for Visitors

The bush clover is a seasonal beauty. While daytime strolls are lovely, visiting during the evening illumination provides a truly magical experience. Kairakuen is also home to many historical sites, such as the Komon-tei pavilion and the Tamadamasen spring, making it a perfect place to explore Japanese history.

Essentials & Etiquette

• *Clothing**: We recommend comfortable walking shoes as the garden is quite large.
• *Payment**: Please check the official website or local signage for details on fees and facility payments.
• *Etiquette**: As this is a historic site, please treat the plants and facilities with care and enjoy the scenery quietly.
• *Reservations**: For details on special evening events or potential reservation requirements, please check the official website in advance.