At the end of the Edo period, the garden was built by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth lord of the Mito domain, as a place for people to enjoy together. The plum grove, with 3,000 plum trees of about 100 varieties, is particularly impressive, and the Mito Plum Festival, held every year from February to March, attracts many tourists who come to enjoy the fragrance and beauty of the plum blossoms that fill the garden.

Kobuntei, located within the garden, is a historic two-story, three-story wooden building that is said to have been designed by Nariaki himself. It is said that he invited literati, vassals, and people from within the domain to enjoy poetry and tea ceremonies. From Kobuntei, you can look out over the plum grove below and the magnificent view of Lake Senba in the distance, further enhancing the charm of Kairakuen. It is a place where you can feel the nature and history of the four seasons, and it is beautiful not only in the plum season, but also in the seasons of new green leaves and autumn leaves.

Kairakuen has a vast area and is rich in attractions, including not only the plum grove, but also the dignified bamboo forest and the beautiful spring water of Togyokusen. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the space where nature and history coexist in harmony. It is easily accessible by bus from Mito Station, and is sure to be an unforgettable experience for tourists looking for historical walks, cherry blossom viewing, and beautiful scenery.

[Trivia]
The name Kairakuen comes from Tokugawa Nariaki's wish to "enjoy together with the people." Kobuntei is a building that Nariaki himself devised to embody the idea of ​​"becoming familiar with learning and appreciating plum blossoms." In addition, there are about 100 varieties of plum trees planted in the garden, and as they bloom at different times, you can enjoy the plum blossoms for a relatively long period of time.

[Hidden gem information]
The "Kairakuen Extension" that spreads out on the south side of Kairakuen is free to enter, unlike the main garden, and is a place where you can enjoy the spacious lawn and flowers of the four seasons. It is especially recommended for those who want to avoid the crowds of the main garden and take a leisurely stroll during the plum festival. In addition, the "bamboo forest" behind Kobuntei has a quiet and solemn atmosphere, and is a hidden gem where you can enjoy beautiful scenery even outside of the plum season.