Guide
Gifu World Rose Garden (formerly known as Hana Festa Memorial Park) is a world-class rose garden located in Kani City, Gifu Prefecture. It boasts an overwhelming scale, with approximately 20,000 roses across 6,000 different varieties, attracting visitors from both Japan and abroad. More than just a botanical garden, it offers a multi-sensory experience through exhibits themed around the "Scent, Color, and Taste" of flowers, allowing guests to deeply connect with nature through all five senses.
The history of the garden began with its planning as a prefectural urban park in 1984. In 1989, the "Hana Topia" center was established, and the park became fully operational in 1993. In 1996, it was renamed "Hana Festa Memorial Park" and transitioned to a paid-entry facility. The garden received international acclaim, including being the first in Japan to win the Outstanding Garden Award from the World Rose Convention. On October 9, 2021, it was officially renamed to its current name, "Gifu World Rose Garden." Throughout its history, the park has served as a local symbol, hosting exhibitions that convey the culture and history of the region.
The park features various beautiful gardens, each based on unique themes. Visitors can discover new wonders in every corner, such as the rose-centric gardens organized by 12 different themes, the "Anne Frank Rose Garden" featuring a statue of Anne Frank, and the "Persian Rose Garden" filled with exotic varieties. Other stunning landscapes include the "White Rose Garden," which features white roses and seasonal flora, and the "Terrace Garden," inspired by Italian terrace styles. Beyond the visual beauty, the immersive exhibits on the culinary and aromatic aspects of roses provide a multifaceted way to enjoy the garden.
The best season to visit is from April to June, when the roses are in full bloom. May is particularly spectacular, as many varieties bloom simultaneously, filling the air with a rich, sweet fragrance. In early June, late-blooming climbing roses reach their peak. The garden's appearance changes beautifully with the seasons, and the vibrant period from spring to early summer is the highlight for most tourists. For photography enthusiasts, visiting during bright daylight hours is ideal, as the colors of the roses appear most vivid under the sun.
Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits centered on the "Scent, Color, and Taste" of roses. Rather than just viewing them as plants, you can experience their fragrance and learn about their culinary uses. Additionally, the garden houses a traditional tea room, "Oribe-an," where you can enjoy a unique experience of combining the traditional Japanese tea ceremony with the beauty of roses. It is a perfect destination for families and groups looking to relax in nature.
Gifu World Rose Garden is located in Kani City, Gifu Prefecture, an area rich in historical culture. The park has previously hosted exhibits related to local history, such as the Taiga Drama Museum. The surrounding natural environment makes it a wonderful base for exploring the wider Gifu region.
Since the garden covers a vast area, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please dress appropriately for the season and weather. To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, please follow the park rules and respect the plants by not touching the flowers or leaves, allowing everyone to enjoy the peaceful environment.