Oyakuen Garden Entry Pass - Historic Daimyo Garden & National Scenic Spot in Aizu
Located in Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima, Oyakuen is a stunning Japanese landscape garden recognized as a national scenic site, cherished by the Aizu clan's lords throughout history. This historic stroll-style garden, originating from the Muromachi period, boasts a central pond designed in the shape of the kanji character for "heart" and includes a medicinal herb garden, where guests can relax at the historic Ochaya Goten pavilion while sipping traditional matcha green tea or the garden's unique medicinal herb teas.
The tour program has not been added yet. Contact us for details.
The Story of Oyakuen
The origins of Oyakuen trace back to the 1430s in the Muromachi period, when Morihisa Ashina, the ruler of Aizu, constructed a villa in this location that is enriched with natural spring water. Subsequently, in 1670, the second lord of the Aizu clan, Masatsune Hoshina, initiated a garden for medicinal herbs to help protect his community from epidemics, leading to the designation "Oyakuen" (which translates to "Imperial Herb Garden"). Notably, during the tumultuous Boshin War of 1868, the garden was spared from destruction as it served as a sanatorium for the imperial government forces, allowing the authentic samurai-era landscape to be preserved for contemporary visitors.
Itinerary & Highlights
- Stroll Around Shinji-ike Pond: Take a walk along the paths encircling the pond, which is designed in the shape of the Chinese character for "heart" (心), and enjoy the varying perspectives, stone arrangements, and seasonal greenery.
- Explore the Medicinal Herb Garden: Wander through the botanical area where approximately 400 species of medicinal plants continue to thrive, and discover the natural remedies that were cultivated by the Aizu clan.
- Rakujutei Pavilion: Appreciate the thatched-roof sukiya-style teahouse located on the central island of the pond, a representation of wabi-sabi aesthetics.
- Ochaya Goten Pavilion (Tea Sitting Area): Explore the historic wooden villa that was once utilized by lords for relaxation and private discussions. Relish a peaceful moment of tea appreciation.
Highlights
- Historic Samurai Lord's Garden: Stroll through a meticulously maintained historic garden that weathered the Boshin War, preserving its original elements such as the Ochaya Goten pavilion.
- Medicinal Herb Culture: Explore Aizu’s health traditions at the on-site botanical garden, which nurtures around 400 varieties of medicinal plants and herbs.
- Authentic Tea Experience: Enjoy traditional matcha green tea accompanied by local sesame yokan (sweet bean jelly) within the historic villa that provides stunning landscape views (Available for an additional fee onsite).
Price Details
Included
- Admission fee
Purchase Notice
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM).
Operating Days: Open year-round. However, temporary closures may occur due to severe weather or facility maintenance.
Accessibility: The garden paths include unpaved gravel, stone steps, and stepping stones. Access for wheelchairs and strollers may be limited in certain areas.
How to Use
Please provide your order number on-site.