Guide
Manabe Garden is a vast 100-hectare botanical estate located in Obihiro, Hokkaido. It is renowned as a major center for the production of rare conifer (needle-leaf tree) species and holds the distinction of being Japan's first authentic conifer garden. The grounds are filled with a diverse collection of trees brought from across the globe, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the sculptural beauty of nature. It is also a popular spot for observing wildlife, such as the Ezo Red Squirrel and the Japanese Flying Squirrel, offering a profound sense of connection with the natural world.
The history of this land began with forestry established by the first settler, Saichi Manabe, in 1896. The foundation for the modern garden was laid by the second generation, Masaaki Namami, who began cultivating garden trees capable of thriving in cold climates. The third generation, Tomonori Manabe, expanded the estate into a Western-style landscape by importing rare trees from Europe, North America, and beyond. This created a unique fusion of Japanese garden aesthetics and Western landscape design. The site also preserves significant historical architecture, such as the 'Shinsekaku' villa, which was relocated here in 1969. The garden holds high cultural value, having hosted contemporary art exhibitions to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Shinsekaku.
The garden features several distinct themed areas. The 'European Garden (Conifer Garden),' symbolized by its iconic red-roofed house, is the heart of the estate where rare conifers are showcased. Another highlight is the 'Japanese Garden,' which features the historic 'Shinsekaku' villa and a beautiful koi pond maintained by pure groundwater that springs from 350 meters below the surface at a constant 14°C. Other charming areas include the 'Landscape Garden,' which utilizes the natural topography, such as the Hamanasu Hill and the Squirrel Church. Visitors can also enjoy the changing colors of the 'Riverside Border Garden,' where four types of maple trees are planted along a 50-meter stretch, offering a different visual experience with every stroll.
Each season offers a unique botanical spectacle. In August, hydrangeas are in full bloom, while late autumn brings the vibrant colors of the Hamanasu roses. From spring through summer, the lush greenery of the conifers and the activity of the Ezo Red Squirrels are at their peak. To make the most of your visit, we recommend following the curated model courses. There is a '30-minute course' perfect for spotting Ezo Red Squirrels, a 'Kita-kitsune (Ezo Red Fox) course,' and a '60-minute Rabbit Course' for a deeper immersion in nature. The scenery changes beautifully depending on the time of day; a morning stroll under soft sunlight or an afternoon walk when plant colors are most vivid is highly recommended.
The primary experience is observing the sculptural beauty of nature while walking through the vast grounds. Searching for wildlife like the Ezo Red Squirrel or the Japanese Flying Squirrel adds an element of excitement to your walk. The garden also features a seedling shop, a cafe, and a greenhouse, providing perfect spots to rest and relax amidst the greenery. Taking time to refresh your mind in this quiet, natural environment is a special way to escape the stresses of daily life.
Manabe Garden is located along the Hokkaido Garden Trail, an area that allows you to fully enjoy the rich natural beauty of the Tokachi region. There are many other beautiful gardens scattered throughout the area, making it perfect for a garden-hopping tour. It is also relatively easy to access from Obihiro city center, making it a convenient stop during your travels.
Because the grounds are extremely large and follow natural terrain, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. It is also helpful to bring your own beverages and light snacks, as walks can take some time. Please refrain from feeding the wildlife. While some shops on-site may accept various forms of payment, please ensure you have cash or a credit card ready for any purchases. We recommend checking the official website or local information in advance regarding English-language support and any specific seasonal updates.