Mifuneyama Rakuen

Mifuneyama Rakuen is a large Japanese strolling garden at the base of Mount Mifune, spreading across several hundred thousand square meters of landscaped space. The grounds display seasonal blooms throughout the year, including cherry blossoms in spring, azaleas in early summer, and colorful maple foliage in autumn.

The garden was established by feudal lord Nabeshima Shigeyoshi as a personal project, reflecting the garden design ideals of the feudal period. It later received official recognition as a Registered Monument of Japan, marking its place in the country's cultural history.

The garden holds 500 stone statues of Buddhist disciples scattered throughout, creating a meditative mood as you walk past them. A traditional teahouse invites visitors to experience a Japanese tea ceremony and observe how locals and guests gather for this ritual.

The garden is open for daytime visits and evening visits with lighting, offering different ways to experience the space depending on your preference. Wear comfortable shoes since the paths wind through hilly terrain and wooded areas with varying elevation changes.

From July to November, the art collective TeamLab transforms the space with digital installations called 'A Forest Where Gods Live,' blending natural landscape with projected light and color. These temporary artworks create a different perspective on the garden without overshadowing the plants and paths.