Tohoku University Botanical Gardens

Tohoku University Botanical Gardens spans a large area on Mount Aoba and contains a natural fir forest alongside research facilities. The grounds are divided into different zones where both wild plant stands and cultivated collections can be found.

The site was founded in 1958 and originally served educational and research functions. It became a designated natural monument in 1972, marking a first for national university gardens in Japan.

The garden displays diverse Japanese plant species arranged in distinct sections such as a rock garden and wetland area. Visitors can observe how traditional Japanese garden design showcases native flora and reflects the relationship between plants and landscape.

The grounds are most easily reached by public transport, followed by a short walk across the university campus. Visitors should wear good footwear since paths lead through forest areas and varied terrain.

The grounds contain ruins of a tea house built by Yoshimura Date, the fifth ruler of the Date clan. Ancient stone monuments from Mongolia and other regions are also scattered across the site for visitors to discover.

Location: Aoba-ku

Inception: 1958

Official opening: 1959

Website: https://web.tohoku.ac.jp/garden/english

GPS coordinates: 38.23330,140.00000

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25