Mogusa-en ~Ume Festival~

Mogusa-en is a famous garden which opens since 1716 in Edo period. It is not so far away from central Tokyo, so it is very easy to visit as you stay in Tokyo. The best season to visit this garden is the winter. At the end of winter, you will see more than 50 kinds of ume (Japanese apricot tree) bloom. The scenery of it is so beautiful that you will forget to breath.

Because Mogusa-en is open since 1716, you can actually “see” the Japanese culture of “wabi-sabi”. Specifically speaking, Mogusa-en is located at top of the Tama Hill that is 10 minutes away from station at Keio Line.

The entrance of Mogusa-en

Even at the entrance, you can tell that the air is saturated with the perfume of flowers.

The famous “Zyusyo-bai” (kind of ume) is older than 300 years old that it is written in Edo guide book magazine called “Edo-meisho-zu-e” published in Edo period.

There is a thatched roof house and Japanese garden in Mogusa-en. Both the house and garden shows you the Japanese beauty.

Although it is one ume family, 500 ume has lots of colors and shapes that won’t make you bored.

Not only ume, but many other kinds of plants and trees are planted in Mogusa-en. So, you can go visit not only winter but all season.

Fukujyusou

Winter Iris

Daffodil

You can enjoy the beautiful view from 140 meters high obervatory You can see all ume to bloom and Japanese style thatched roof house from there. If the weather is clear, you can also see Tokyo Sky Tree which is now on construction. Tokyo Sky Tree is one of the TV tower and is said that it will be the highest one in Japan.

As I said before, visiting Mogusa-en in autum is the best. The colored leaves will be spotted with lights at night that will facinate many visitors. Relax and enjoy the Japanese beauty of “wa” here.