Guida
Hakone Wetland Gardens is a botanical garden located in Sengokuhara, Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. The garden is designed around plants that thrive in wetlands, such as marshes, rivers, and lakes. It features a diverse collection of approximately 1,700 plant species, including 200 types of wetland plants found in various parts of Japan, ranging from lowlands to high altitudes. The garden is famous for its ever-changing scenery, offering a different aesthetic with every season.
Established in 1976 to protect and promote the natural beauty of the Sengokuhara wetlands, this site serves as Japan's first wetland botanical garden. A notable historical event occurred on July 3, 1979, when Emperor Showa and Empress Kojun visited this area during their journey to the Susaki Imperial Villa. For many years, the garden has served as a vital center for preserving the natural environment of Hakone and educating visitors about plant biodiversity.
The garden paths are designed to guide visitors through a gradual ecological transition, starting from lowland wetlands and ascending toward alpine plant zones. This allows visitors to observe the changes in plant ecosystems step-by-step. The exhibition room offers a deeper look into the flora and fauna of the Sengokuhara wetlands through photographs, panels, and seasonal video presentations. For example, during spring and summer, specialized videos are shown to enhance understanding of plant life cycles. The facility is fully equipped with a management building that includes a shop, lecture room, and restrooms.
The plant life changes dramatically depending on the season. In spring, you can see Skunk Cabbage (Mizubasho), Japanese Skunk Cabbage, and Trillium, signaling the arrival of early summer. Summer brings Nikko Kirisage (Daylil), Lotus, and various river plants, creating a lush water landscape. Autumn is characterized by the vibrant colors of Gentian and colorful autumn leaves. The garden is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended to fully appreciate the colors of the flowers and the serene water landscapes.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours led by volunteer guides who provide explanations about the seasonal plants. These tours are held twice a day (at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM) with a limit of 10 participants per session. Registration takes place at the information desk starting at 9:00 AM. Additionally, the exhibition room in the management building offers visual learning through video. The garden is a peaceful place for nature observation and photography; however, please note that collecting any plants or wildlife is strictly prohibited.
The garden is situated in the scenic Sengokuhara area of Hakone. The surrounding area features the Sengokuhara Wetlands and is well-served by nearby bus stops and various accommodation facilities. You can easily access the garden via the Hakone Tozan Bus from directions such as Gora or Hakone-Yumoto. It is a perfect starting point for a nature-themed walking tour through the Hakone region.
While the garden has maintained paths, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the stroll through the various ecosystems. Please remember the golden rule of nature: "The only thing you should take is a photo." Protecting the environment is essential, and picking plants is strictly forbidden. The shop offers unique items such as original postcards, photo books, and seasonal plants (such as carnivorous plants available in summer). Please check with staff regarding specific rules or payment methods upon arrival.