Kairakuen Garden (偕楽園) is a beautiful Japanese landscape garden located in Mito city, Ibaraki Prefecture. This historic garden is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, along with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Korakuen in Okayama. It was built in 1842 by the local feudal lord Tokugawa Nariaki, who sought to create a garden for the enjoyment of his people. The name Kairakuen means “a garden to enjoy with the people,” reflecting the vision of Lord Nariaki. The garden covers an area of about 130,000 square meters and features a variety of ponds, streams, hills, and walking paths. Kairakuen is especially famous for its plum blossoms, which bloom from late February to early April and attract thousands of visitors from all over Japan. One of the unique features of Kairakuen is the number of different varieties of plum trees that can be found here. There are over 3,000 plum trees in the garden, representing more than 100 different varieties. The plum blossoms come in many different colors, including white, pink, and red, and their fragrance fills the air. Another highlight of Kairakuen is the many small tea houses and pavilions that dot the garden. These structures were built to provide a place for visitors to rest and enjoy the scenery, and many of them offer beautiful views of the ponds and hills. Some of the most popular spots in the garden include the Kobuntei, a beautiful three-story pavilion that was built by Lord Nariaki himself, and the Ryokutei, a tea house that offers a stunning view of the plum blossoms. In addition to the plum blossoms, Kairakuen also has many other seasonal attractions throughout the year. In the spring, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and azaleas, while in the summer there are lotus flowers and water lilies. In the fall, the garden is famous for its vibrant colors as the leaves change, and in the winter visitors can enjoy the snow-covered landscape. Kairakuen is also home to several important cultural properties, including the Koubuntei, the Tokugawa family shrine, and the Mito Domain archive. These buildings offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the area, and are a testament to the importance of Kairakuen to the local community. One of the best times to visit Kairakuen is during the Mito Plum Festival, which takes place every year from late February to mid-March. During the festival, the garden is illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere that is not to be missed. There are also many food and craft stalls set up throughout the garden, offering visitors a chance to sample local delicacies and purchase souvenirs. Overall, Kairakuen is a beautiful and historic garden that is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ibaraki Prefecture. With its stunning plum blossoms, beautiful tea houses, and cultural treasures, Kairakuen offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the beauty and tranquility of traditional Japan.