Tokyo metropolitan parks (public parks and gardens)

Harsh, cold weather continues during this season, but the days are gradually becoming longer and it’s possible to get a sense that spring is coming from the warmth of the daytime sunlight. The true cheer of spring can be felt by seeing colorful cherry blossoms, dandelions, and rape blossoms in bloom. These spring flowers are beginning their preparations to bud during the present season.

Tokyo metropolitan parks are the perfect places to go on a walk to search for spring. Tokyo has one nationally operated park, 80 that are operated by the metropolitan government, and 7,528 parks that are operated by cities, towns, and villages. Various types of plants grow in these parks, which range in size from large to small. There is a wide range of ways to enjoy searching for spring at these parks, such as checking the changes that occur to the plants in gardens you pass each day, or by going to flower festivals at large parks and gardens.

Events are held at metropolitan parks in Tokyo in honor of plums, which are almost in season. At Mukojima-Hyakken Gardens, a “plum poetry” event is held with displays of waka and haiku poems on the theme of plums that have been submitted by people. Other events include tosenkyo (a traditional fan-tossing game from the Edo period), street performances such as nankin tamasudare and top spinning, and performances featuring bamboo flutes with clean, clear tones.

Events at Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens will include Edo daikagura (traditional juggling that has been passed down since the Edo period), erhu concerts, biwa concerts, and more. There, visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese performing arts while viewing the flowers.

Flowers that can be seen in February include plums, tree peonies, camellia, daffodils, and pheasant’s eye. Why not take an enjoyable walk to see the early arrival of spring in Tokyo?