Bandoko Garden, Ocean-side garden in Wakayama, Japan.
Bandoko Garden extends from a flat cape into Wakaura Bay, using a mix of pine trees and bluestone rocks along its shoreline. The space is structured to display both Japanese and Western design techniques, creating a diverse landscape throughout.
During the Edo period, this location served as a strategic watchtower for the Kishu Domain to monitor foreign vessels in Wakaura Bay. The site was later transformed into a garden, merging its historical function with landscape design.
The western section displays traditional Japanese garden design with careful plant placement and stone work, while the eastern part uses Western design approaches. This blend shapes how the space looks and feels as you walk through it.
The garden has different opening times depending on the season, so it is wise to check exact times before visiting. Access is straightforward from the flat cape, but offers little shelter from wind and sun, so prepare yourself accordingly.
From the garden's edge you can see three islands - Oshima, Ishima, and Tsukishima - lying in the Kii Channel offshore. These islands become a key part of the view and change how the experience feels depending on the time of day and weather.
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