Guide
Sukagawa Botan Garden, located in Sukagawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a truly special destination—the only peony garden in Japan to be officially registered as a National Scenic Spot. Spanning a massive 10 hectares (approximately 3 times the size of Tokyo Dome), the garden cultivates 7,000 peonies across 290 different varieties. During the fragrant month of May, the garden is completely transformed by a sea of vibrant, elegant peonies, offering visitors an overwhelming sense of beauty. It is a place where you can experience the essence of traditional Japanese garden aesthetics alongside the powerful vitality of nature through the changing seasons.
The history of this garden dates back to 1766 (Meiwa 3). It began when Yu-rin Ito, a merchant dealing in medicinal herbs, brought peony seedlings from the Settsu Province (modern-day Takarazuka, Hyogo) to cultivate them for medicinal purposes. In the early Meiji era, the Yanuma family took over the cultivation, expanding the varieties and the number of plants to develop the garden into its current magnificent form. Recognizing its immense historical and cultural value, the garden was designated as a National Scenic Spot in 1932. The meticulous cultivation techniques and the historic landscape have been preserved for generations, creating the breathtaking scenery seen today.
The greatest draw is undoubtedly the overwhelming number of peonies blooming in May. Seeing so many diverse varieties in full bloom simultaneously is a truly spectacular sight. Beyond the peonies, the vast grounds offer beautiful seasonal landscapes and flowers that make every stroll feel like a journey through nature. The garden is also designed with structures that evoke a sense of history, providing a perfect environment for photography and peaceful walks.
The best time to visit is from mid-April to May, when the peonies reach their peak bloom. Please note that this is a paid admission period, but it offers the most spectacular views. Outside of the peony blooming season, the garden is open for free. The garden offers different charms in every season—from the fresh greenery of spring to the serene landscapes of autumn—making it worth visiting at different times of the year. For the best photography, visit during bright daylight hours when the colors appear most vivid.
The main activity is a leisurely stroll through the expansive grounds to feel the breath of nature. You may also encounter local handmade products and regional specialties related to the plants during your visit. Immersing yourself in the history of Japanese garden culture provides a profound sense of peace. By timing your visit with the blooming information, you can experience the absolute peak of the garden's beauty.
Sukagawa City is dotted with various historical sites and cultural facilities. You can combine your visit to the garden with a broader cultural exploration of the area, which also features beautiful rural landscapes and natural scenery depending on the season.
Since the garden is quite large, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. As there is little shade in certain areas, bringing a hat or parasol is helpful. Please note that during the peak-season paid period, cash is the primary method of payment. To protect the plants and maintain a clean environment, pets are generally not allowed. To ensure a pleasant experience for all, please keep noise levels low and enjoy the natural tranquility respectfully.