Chrysanthemum Exhibition 菊花壇展

The chrysanthemum exhibition at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a series of flower displays arranged under the shed called Uwaya. Walk along the winding paths and enjoy the wide variety of colors and unique patternsof the chrysanthemum displays in Japanese Traditional Garden.

Chrysanthemums are said to have first arrived in Japan sometime from the late eighth century to the early ninth century. They were developed over the centuries, and in 1878, Ministry of the Imperial Household organized the first chrysanthemum exhibition at Akasaka Palace, mainly for the Imperial Family. Exhibition-quality chrysanthemums were first grown at Akasaka Palace, but in 1904, Shinjuku Gyoen also began cultivating them. This chrysanthemum-viewing event has been held at Shinjuku Gyoen since 1929. This year, a special night illumination is also held at the exhibition.