Nestled along Asahikawa Zoo, Miura Garden stands as a testament to the beauty and tranquillity of traditional Japanese landscaping. On 6 July 2024, the garden welcomed visitors for a special occasion—the grand re-opening after extensive renovations. This event was even more significant as it marked the 10th anniversary of Miura Garden’s transition to a public garden available to all. To celebrate this milestone, a free, open day was held, featuring a tea ceremony next to the serene pond, surrounded by the vibrant blooms of water lilies, lotuses, and other early July flowers.

History

Miura Garden was originally established by the Miura family – prominent figures in the Asahikawa region. The garden was created to embody the essence of traditional Japanese horticultural aesthetics, blending natural beauty with meticulous design. In 2011 the last of the Miura family died and the garden was given to the city. Since its initial renovation and opening in 2014, Miura Garden has become a cherished landmark, offering a peaceful retreat for both locals and visitors as a display of Showa and traditional techniques.

Throughout its history, Miura Garden has undergone several transformations, reflecting the evolving tastes and needs of its patrons. Each renovation has aimed to preserve the garden’s historical integrity while enhancing its appeal and accessibility. The recent renovation, culminating in the grand re-opening in 2024, is the latest chapter in this storied history, ensuring that Miura Garden continues to enchant and inspire future generations.

Renovation Details

The recent renovation of Miura Garden was an ambitious project aimed at revitalising and preserving its natural beauty and historical charm. Undertaken over several months, the renovation focused on various aspects of the garden to enhance both its aesthetic appeal and visitor experience.

Key improvements included the restoration of traditional elements such as stone lanterns, pathways, and the iconic teahouse. Special attention was given to the garden’s water features, with the pond being carefully dredged and cleaned to ensure a pristine environment for the water lilies and lotuses. The landscaping was meticulously updated, with new plants introduced and existing greenery carefully pruned and maintained to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

The renovation also aimed to improve accessibility, with upgraded pathways and seating areas to accommodate all visitors. The majority of the garden is now accessible to wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. However as it still sits on a hill, some of the slopes can be somewhat steep.

Garden management and local authorities also emphasised the importance of preserving the garden’s historical integrity while making it more welcoming and enjoyable for the public. This careful balance of tradition and modernity was a guiding principle throughout the renovation process, ensuring that Miura Garden remained a beloved retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Grand Re-Opening Event (6 July 2024)

The grand re-opening event on 6 July 2024 traditional celebration of the garden, with those most involved in the renovation leading the opening ceremony. The day was meticulously planned to showcase the garden’s newly restored splendour and to mark its 10th anniversary in style.

In addition to the numerous flowers in the bloom, one of the highlights of the event was a traditional tea ceremony held next to the tranquil pond. This ceremony, a quintessential aspect of Japanese culture, was performed by skilled tea masters who guided participants through the delicate and meditative process of preparing and enjoying matcha. The setting, with blooming water lilies and lotuses reflecting in the pond, a few lingering irises on the banks, budding hydrangea readying themselves to burst onto the scene, and various other flowers added to the serene and enchanting atmosphere.

Throughout the day, visitors were able to visit the garden for free in honour of the “renewal open” (as it was known in Japanese). The weather threatened to rain but it held off for the first two hours of the opening, which was enough for the speeches, ceremony and tea ceremony to be completed.

Floral Display in July at Miura Garden

The floral display at Miura Garden during the grand re-opening was nothing short of breathtaking. Early July is a particularly splendid time for the garden, with an array of flowers in full bloom, creating a vibrant and colourful tapestry that delighted visitors. It was almost like it was planned specifically for that weekend for a reason!

The pond, the centrepiece of the garden, was adorned with exquisite water lilies and lotuses, their delicate petals opening to the sun. These aquatic plants, with their serene beauty and symbolic significance in Japanese culture, captivated the audience. The sight of their blooms floating gracefully on the water’s surface added a sense of tranquillity and elegance to the garden.

In addition to the water lilies and lotuses, the garden showcased a variety of other seasonal flowers. Hydrangeas, with their lush, spherical clusters, were beginning to add splashes of blue, pink, and purple throughout the landscape. Irises, another traditional favourite that bloom later in Hokkaido than in the rest of Japan, stood tall and regal, their intricate blossoms adding depth and texture to the floral display.

The meticulous arrangement of these flowers highlighted the principles of Japanese garden design, where every element is placed with careful consideration to create harmony and balance. The garden’s pathways led visitors through a living canvas of colour and fragrance, encouraging a leisurely exploration of its beauty.

Visitors were not only mesmerised by the visual spectacle but also deeply moved by the garden’s sensory experience. The gentle rustle of leaves, the subtle fragrance of blooms, and the soothing sound of water features combined to create an immersive environment that celebrated nature in its purest form. Rather than detracting, the light rain (once it started) also added to the ambience of the garden.

The floral display was a testament to the dedication and expertise of the gardeners who meticulously tended to every plant. Their efforts ensured that Miura Garden was not only restored but elevated to new heights of beauty, making the grand re-opening a truly memorable occasion.

Visiting Asahiyama Miura Gardens

For those planning a visit to Miura Garden, here are some practical details to enhance your experience:

• Location: Miura Garden is located in the eastern part of Asahikawa, Hokkaido, easily accessible by public transportation or car. For the bus, simply take the bus that goes to Asahikawa Zoo. The address for Miura Gardens is Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8205, Japan.
• Opening Hours: The garden is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is advisable to check the official website (in Japanese) or local information for any changes or seasonal variations in opening times.
• Admission: During special events like the grand re-opening, admission may be free or reduced. However, it is usually ¥500 for adults to enter the garden. Children under the age of 15 pay half-price.
• Facilities: Miura Garden is equipped with amenities such as restrooms and seating areas for visitors’ convenience. Accessibility features have been enhanced to ensure that the garden is accessible to all.
• Events and Workshops: Throughout the year, Miura Garden hosts a variety of cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions. These events offer opportunities for deeper engagement with Japanese culture and arts.

For the latest information on visiting Miura Garden, including upcoming events and special exhibitions, please visit the official website. Alternatively, you can contact the Tourist Information Centre in JR Asahikawa Station for more information. They also have information in English, Mandarin Chinese and Korean available and the staff may be able to speak to you directly, depending on who is working at the time.

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