Seasonal Flowers and Japanese Tranquility at Shinjuku Gyoen

-The beauty of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in spring

Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in Japan. The cherry blossoms in full bloom attract many people every year. The sight of cherry petals dancing in the wind, as if a pink carpet is being spread, is very magical. During this season, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in many parks and along rivers. It is a heartwarming experience to spend time with friends and family, spreading out a box lunch while admiring the cherry blossoms.

Spring is also the season of beautiful fresh greenery. Trees that have survived the winter begin to sprout new leaves all at once. Their vivid green color gives a sense of vitality and vigor to those who see them. Especially in mountainous areas, the contrast between the fresh green and the lingering snow is stunning, and one cannot help but feel the greatness of nature.

Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, these two beauties have different charms. What they have in common, however, is that each moment is extremely precious. Both cherry blossoms and fresh greenery can only be enjoyed for a short period of time. Therefore, at this time of year, many people come outside to fully appreciate their beauty.

In addition, fresh greenery has a refreshing effect. The substance called phytoncide released from trees has a relaxing effect, so just looking at fresh greenery is enough to heal both body and mind. It is also the most positive time of the year, as people have a heightened sense of anticipation for their new environment and lifestyle.

Why not take a short break from everyday life by soaking up the spring sunshine and enjoying the beautiful scenery? You will gain new energy from the contact with nature that is unique to this season. And this experience will add richness and color to our daily lives. We hope you will enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery this spring.

-Lotus and cool pond in summer

During the hot summer season, many people turn to nature to cool off. Among them, ponds filled with lotus flowers are especially popular. The lotus flowers attract visitors with their beauty and mysterious atmosphere. The pond is surrounded by lush green trees, and a cool breeze blows pleasantly through the air.

If you visit the pond early in the morning, the air is still and cool, and you can watch the lotus flowers bloom en masse in the stillness. Large leaves spread over the surface of the water, and lotus flowers with pale pink or white petals float gracefully above them. This scene is like a painting, and it is calming and relaxing.

In the daytime, the sun's rays make the surface of the water sparkle, creating an even more gorgeous atmosphere. However, thanks to the wind blowing from the water's edge, one does not feel strangely hot. In such a place, time seems to flow more slowly, and you feel as if you are in harmony with nature.

In the evening, the entire sky begins to turn orange as the sun sets. This time of day is also special. The lotus pond against the sunset sky becomes a serene moment that marks the end of the day. And this beautiful scenery will soothe away the fatigue of the day.

I believe that it is important to take a moment to get away from the daily routine of summer. In our busy lives, we should cherish such opportunities to refresh our minds and bodies through contact with nature. This beautiful scene of "summer lotus" and "cool pond" is loved by many people. It is sure to give new vitality to each of our daily lives.

-Autumn foliage and tranquil gardens

Autumn foliage and serene gardens are a true symbol of Japanese beauty. During this season, trees are covered with colorful leaves, and their appearance is like a painting. The beauty is especially enhanced in the gardens.

When you step into the garden, the first thing that catches your eye are the maple trees dyed in vivid red and yellow. Whenever the wind blows, the leaves flutter down like a dance of nature. Just looking at this scene is a calming experience.

The pond and stream also make a beautiful backdrop at this time of year. The reflection of the autumn leaves on the surface of the water creates an even more profound scene. Carp swim leisurely along the water's edge, and their movement also evokes a sense of tranquility.

There are many uniquely Japanese elements in the garden, such as stone lanterns and moss-covered stone pavements. The contrast of these elements with the autumn leaves makes them stand out even more, and gives one a sense of the depth of Japanese culture. There are also bamboo fences and tea rooms along the paths, each with its own unique flavor.

In these places, people can stroll in harmony with nature. With each step they take, they can see the autumn leaves from a different perspective, and each time they do so, they make new discoveries. Above all, this tranquil space allows people to get away from their daily routines and have time to face themselves as well.

The autumn sun is soft and the chilly air is pleasant. Spending a moment while listening to the scents and sounds unique to this season is a very luxurious experience. Taking a break from the busy daily routine, time spent in a garden like this will refresh your body and mind and give you renewed vigor.

I invite you all to visit the garden this fall and enjoy the autumn foliage and serenity of the garden. The beauty and thoughtfulness of the gardens will surely give you new perspectives and inspiration.

-Harmony of winter camellia and snowy landscape

Camellias blooming in winter gardens are like works of art created by nature. The bright red and pink camellias stand out even more against the pure white snowy landscape. Whenever I see camellias blooming in this season, I am struck by their vitality and beauty, defying the cold weather with dignity.

It is a quiet morning with snow falling, and when you step outside, the whole area is a silver world. The trees are covered with snow, and the camellia flowers blooming quietly amidst them are truly a gift from the natural world. The petals are gently covered with fine snowflakes, and the scene is like looking at a painting.

At this time of year, many people enjoy tea ceremonies and garden walks unique to winter. Especially in Japanese-style gardens, one can see snow-draped pine trees and moss-covered stone lanterns, which are a uniquely Japanese sight. The most eye-catching of all, however, are the camellias. Their vivid colors provide people with warmth and memorable moments.

Camellia also has many cultural connotations since ancient times. In Japan, it is also known as the "spring herald," symbolizing the anticipation of a new season. For this reason, they are popular as New Year's decorations. And beautiful camellias can also be seen at many temples and shrines during this time of year, and in many cases they offer visitors a moment of healing and peace.

In terms of harmony with the winter landscape, there is no better flower than the camellia. Not only for its beauty and presence, but also for the exquisite balance it creates with its surroundings, it evokes a sense of "wabi-sabi" that is unique to Japanese culture. Such a view adds a bit of richness and comfort to people's daily lives.

Finding small happiness and beauty in such everyday winter scenery is a uniquely Japanese sensibility. And perhaps that is the best kind of hospitality that can be obtained through the harmony of winter camellias and snowy landscapes.

-Walking paths through flowers of each season

Walking paths through flowers of the four seasons are popular with many people throughout Japan. These walking trails are filled with different flowers in each season, offering something new to discover each time you visit.

In spring, cherry and plum trees are in full bloom, their pink petals dancing in the wind. Cherry blossoms, in particular, are said to be a symbol of Japan and are a popular attraction for many tourists. Walking along the rows of cherry trees, you will be soothed by their beauty.

In summer, hydrangeas and sunflowers are at their best. The hydrangeas do not lose their beauty on rainy days, and look even more vibrant. Sunflower fields, on the other hand, contrast wonderfully with the blue sky, attracting many photographers.

In autumn, cosmos bloom along with the autumn leaves. The cosmos peeking out from between the red leaves of the trees are very picturesque. The gingko trees also turn golden at this time of year, creating a beautiful scene. The flowers and grasses swaying in the autumn breeze create the most peaceful atmosphere of the year.

In winter, you can enjoy the collaboration with snowy landscape in some areas. There are only a few plants that bloom even during the cold season, such as camellias and Japanese apricots, but each one has its own presence. Also, don't miss the Christmas roses and other flowers unique to winter.

Each season has its own charm on these walking trails of seasonal flowers. And each one adds color to our daily lives through its different fragrances and colors. No matter what time of year you visit, you will always find something new and exciting to discover, so please visit when you have time. You may find a favorite place or plant that is unique to the season.

-Japanese culture to be savored in a traditional tea room

The Japanese culture experienced in a traditional Japanese tearoom is a very profound and calming experience. The tearoom is not just a place to enjoy a cup of tea, but a special space where one can experience the Japanese sense of beauty and spirituality.

First of all, when you enter the tea room, the tranquility and simplicity of the room will cleanse your mind. The fragrance of the tatami mats and the warmth of the wood are evident of the Japanese culture that values harmony with nature. The tokonoma (alcove) is decorated with seasonal scrolls and flowers, each representing the hospitality extended to visitors.

In the tea ceremony, each action has its own meaning. In addition to the gestures involved in serving tea, there is also a meticulous attention to detail in the courtesy shown to guests and in the way utensils are handled. This sequence of events is based on the concept of "once-in-a-lifetime encounter," and is valued as a form of hospitality for that special occasion.

We also want to focus on the matcha itself. Matcha is a carefully ground green tea that is special for its vibrant color and rich flavor. Each sip relaxes the body and mind along with its deep flavor. Another enjoyment is the exquisite combination with sweets. The sweets, which are not too sweet, enhance the bitterness of the green tea, making it even more delicious.

Through these traditional experiences, you can learn about the values and sensitivities that we cherish as Japanese people. It is also a valuable time for you to get away from your daily life and face yourself.

If you have the opportunity, please come and enjoy the Japanese culture in a traditional tea room. The serenity, harmony, and beauty of this culture has a charm that is hard to find in the modern world. And through this experience, you will deepen your understanding of Japanese culture.