Guide
Miharashi Park contains "Kosetsu-en," located in Hakodate, Hokkaido. It is the only garden in Hokkaido to be designated as a national cultural property. Created around 1898 by the influential figure Minejiro Iwafune, it is an authentic "landscape-style garden." The name, meaning "a garden where the scent of plum blossoms lingers in the snow," was bestowed by a high priest of Jodo-shu Chion-in temple in Kyoto who visited Hakodate during the Taisho era. The vast grounds combine Japanese, Western, and natural elements—such as mountain streams—offering a different, breathtaking expression every time you visit.
The history of this garden dates back to the Meiji era. Mr. Iwafune developed the grounds as a way to give back to the community, establishing public spaces and lawns that were opened to the public for free in 1927. As urban planning progressed through the 1950s, it became part of "Miharashi Park," the largest comprehensive park in Hakodate. In 2001, its historical and cultural significance was officially recognized when it was designated as a "Scenic Spot" under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. It is carefully preserved not just as a park, but as a vital piece of Japanese garden culture.
The garden is composed of several distinct stylistic areas. First is the "Japanese-style Pavilion Area," featuring a Shoin-zukuri style pavilion that evokes traditional Japanese beauty. Next is the "Stream Garden Area," where you can enjoy the natural harmony of flowing water, rocks, and trees. Finally, the "Western-style Greenhouse Area" features a brick-built greenhouse and sunken flower beds, creating a unique landscape where Western design meets Japanese elegance. These areas harmonize to create a single, vast work of art.
Kosetsu-en displays a different beauty in every season. It is particularly famous as an autumn foliage spot. From mid-October to November, the "Hakodate MOMI-G Festa" is held, featuring illuminations of the maple tree paths. The illuminated autumn leaves at night create a truly mystical atmosphere. In winter, true to its name, you can enjoy the architectural beauty of the garden set against a serene snowy landscape. The changing flora and scenery throughout the day and seasons make every visit unique.
The primary experience here is "contemplation"—quietly observing the scenery. You can stroll through the grounds, observing the view from the Japanese pavilion or the unique architecture of the Western-style greenhouse. Walking through the well-maintained paths allows you to relax while listening to the sounds of nature and flowing water. During certain seasons, you can experience the magical world of the autumn foliage light-up events, which offer a completely different atmosphere than daytime visits.
Miharashi Park is located in the Yukawa district of Hakodate. The area is dotted with historical buildings and lush natural parks, making it an easy addition to any Hakodate sightseeing itinerary. Nearby, you will also find golf courses and green spaces that showcase the rich natural environment of the region.
Because the grounds are vast and temperatures can fluctuate significantly depending on the season and time of day, please prepare clothing suitable for the weather. Warm clothing and heat protection are essential, especially during winter or night-time illuminations. Photography is permitted, but please respect the cultural property and avoid disturbing the scenery. As some areas may be unpaved or have uneven steps, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.