Flower and History Village Janoihana Complete Guide | Visiting the Seasonal Flowers and Cultural Properties of Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture
“Flower and History Village Janoihana,” located in Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a Japanese garden with a history spanning over 120 years since the Meiji era. With its diverse flowers blooming throughout the seasons and the Janoihana Palace designated as a nationally registered tangible cultural property, it captivates many tourists as a leading tourist attraction in Fukushima Prefecture.
This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, from the historical background of Janoihana to seasonal highlights, access methods, and admission fee information.
About Flower and History Village Janoihana
History and Origins
Flower and History Village Janoihana is a garden created in the late Meiji era by a wealthy farmer and politician named Itō Wataru (伊藤彌) and his son Itō Noboru (伊藤幟). It opened in 1899 (Meiji 32) and was also called Janoihana Yūrakuen at the time.
When the Itō family reclaimed land in the Janoihana area of Motomiya Town (now Motomiya City), they decided to construct a beautiful garden in this location. In 1904 (Meiji 37), it was developed as a full-fledged garden and evolved into a tourist garden beloved by local people.
Garden Scale and Characteristics
With its vast grounds spanning approximately 100,000 square meters, Janoihana is developed as a tourist garden where visitors can enjoy flowers of different seasons while inheriting the traditional aesthetic sense of Japanese gardens. The garden is laid out with walking paths that take advantage of the topography of the hilly terrain, centered around the Suribachi Pond, inviting visitors into a world of nature and history.
The garden design skillfully incorporates Meiji-era landscaping techniques throughout, with landscape creation that deftly utilizes the natural topography. Walking through the garden, visitors can enjoy a unique landscape where traditional Japanese garden beauty and Western floriculture have merged.
Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property “Janoihana Palace”
History of Janoihana Palace
The Janoihana Palace standing in the garden is a wooden structure built over approximately 10 years in the late Meiji era as a villa for the Itō family. Built by the Itō family, who prospered as wealthy farmers, for use as a reception and cultural activity venue, this building has become a precious cultural property that conveys the lifestyle of the Meiji-era upper class to the present day.
Designated as a nationally registered tangible cultural property, this palace also holds high value as an architectural style, known as a building that represents the pinnacle of construction techniques of that time.
Highlights Within the Palace
Janoihana Palace consists of six rooms in total, each containing calligraphy by notable figures and fusuma paintings by renowned painters. These artistic works are valuable materials that tell the story of the Itō family’s deepening cultural exchanges with intellectuals from the Meiji through Taisho periods.
The interior of the palace is open to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate Japanese traditional architecture and artworks while sensing the atmosphere of the era. The view of the garden seen from the tatami-matted Japanese rooms is exceptional, offering a quiet time to experience the changing seasons.
Flowers of Each Season and Best Viewing Times
The greatest attraction of Flower and History Village Janoihana is its diverse flowers that can be enjoyed throughout the year. The garden shows different faces in each season, and there are new discoveries with each visit.
Spring Highlights (March to May)
Cherry Blossoms (Late March to Early April)
With the arrival of spring, approximately 200 cherry trees bloom throughout the garden. Centered on Somei Yoshino, multiple varieties including wild cherry and double-flowered cherry are planted, allowing visitors to enjoy flower viewing over an extended period. The cherry blossom avenue around Suribachi Pond is particularly beautiful, and the sight of cherry blossoms reflected on the water surface fascinates many photography enthusiasts.
Tulips (Mid-April to Early May)
As the cherry blossom season ends, colorful tulips fill the flower beds throughout the garden. The landscape created by multiple colors—red, yellow, pink, and white—brilliantly colors the spring garden. The flower bed planted with approximately 10,000 tulips brings the joy of spring to visitors.
Great Wisteria Arbor (Early May to Mid-May)
The flower known as representing Janoihana is the great wisteria, said to be 300 to 400 years old. Designated as a natural monument of Motomiya City, this great wisteria arbor displays magnificent purple flower clusters in early May, overwhelming visitors.
When the wisteria flowers reach full bloom, their sweet fragrance drifts throughout the garden, creating a fantastical experience as if walking beneath a purple cloud. Sitting on benches placed beneath the great wisteria arbor and leisurely appreciating the flowers is truly special.
Peonies and Azaleas (Late April to Mid-May)
Peonies and azaleas are also important flowers that color spring at Janoihana. Peonies are known for their luxurious flower appearance, with plants planted throughout the garden producing large blooms. Azaleas color the slopes of the hilly terrain, with pink, red, and white flowers covering the slopes in a magnificent display.
Early Summer Highlights (June to July)
Roses (Late May to June, October)
The rose garden within the garden is planted with multiple varieties of roses that bloom beautifully twice yearly, in spring and autumn. The fragrant rose flowers entertain visitors not only with color but also with their scent. The rose garden, with its Western atmosphere, adds a different character to the Japanese garden.
Hydrangeas (Mid-June to Early July)
During the rainy season, hydrangeas planted throughout the garden come into bloom. The sight of hydrangeas in multiple colors—blue, purple, pink, and white—wet by rain is a landscape symbolizing early summer in Japan. The hydrangeas around Suribachi Pond create a particularly beautiful scene in harmony with the waterside landscape.
Water Lilies (Mid-June to July)
In Suribachi Pond, approximately 10,000 water lilies color the water surface with the arrival of early summer. The sight of white and pink water lilies floating on the water surface has a beauty reminiscent of impressionist paintings. The flowers are most open from early morning through late morning, and viewing during these hours is recommended.
Autumn Highlights (October to November)
Autumn Foliage (Early November to Late November)
Autumn at Janoihana attracts many visitors as a famous autumn foliage viewing spot. Approximately 500 maples (Acer) over 100 years old are planted throughout the garden, turning vivid red and gold colors in November.
The foliage around Suribachi Pond is particularly spectacular, and the sight of autumn foliage reflected on the water surface is breathtakingly beautiful. The gradation of autumn foliage viewed while walking along the hillside paths is one of Fukushima Prefecture’s representative autumn landscapes.
The best viewing season for autumn foliage is typically from early November through late November, though the timing may vary depending on temperature and weather. It is recommended to check the latest foliage information on the official website or SNS before visiting.
Winter at Janoihana
Winter is often a closed season, but the snow-covered garden also has its charm. A Japanese garden enveloped in winter’s silence possesses a solemn beauty different from other seasons.
Access Information
Access by Train
From JR Motomiya Station
- Taxi: approximately 10 minutes
- “Motomiya Sightseeing One-Coin Taxi”: available for 500 yen (advance confirmation required)
JR Motomiya Station is a station on the Tohoku Main Line, approximately 20 minutes from Fukushima Station and approximately 15 minutes from Koriyama Station. Since bus service from the station is limited, taxi use is convenient.
Access by Car
From the Tohoku Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from Motomiya IC
- Approximately 25 minutes from Koriyama IC
After exiting at Motomiya IC on the Tohoku Expressway, head toward National Route 4 and follow the directional signs. When using a car navigation system, search for “Flower and History Village Janoihana” or the address “38 Honmiya Janoihana, Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture 969-1131.”
Parking Information
The garden has free parking facilities with capacity for approximately 200 regular vehicles. Early arrival is recommended during peak seasons such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Congestion is heaviest between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Operating Hours, Admission Fees, and Basic Information
Operating Hours
- April to November: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM)
- December to March: Closed (varies by year; confirmation required)
Admission Fees
- Adults: 500 yen to 800 yen (varies by season)
- Junior and High School Students: 300 yen to 500 yen (varies by season)
- Elementary School Children: 200 yen to 300 yen (varies by season)
- Preschool Children: Free
※Group discounts available (20 or more people)
※Fees vary depending on flower peak seasons. Please check the official website for details.
Location and Contact Information
- Address: 38 Honmiya Janoihana, Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture 969-1131
- Phone: 0243-34-2036
Barrier-Free Information
The garden’s design takes advantage of natural topography, so some areas have slopes and stairs. Wheelchair accessibility is limited to flat areas, but major flower viewing areas are accessible by wheelchair. Contacting in advance may allow staff support.
In-Garden Facilities and Services
Dining and Rest Facilities
Rest areas are provided in the garden where visitors can eat packed lunches they bring. Light food and beverages are also available at a souvenir shop, allowing visitors to rest between strolls.
From spring through summer, barbecue sets (reservation required) are also available, allowing families and groups to enjoy outdoor dining. Spending time eating outdoors while immersed in nature is truly special.
Souvenirs and Shops
The souvenir shop near the entrance sells local Fukushima specialties, gardening supplies, and flower seedlings. Janoihana original products are also available, making them ideal as souvenirs of your visit.
Restrooms and Facilities
Multiple restrooms are installed throughout the garden and are maintained cleanly. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are also provided.
Photography Spots and Recommended Ways to Enjoy the Garden
Best Photography Spots
- Suribachi Pond Area: The flowers and autumn foliage reflected on the water surface are beautiful, and on windless days, the water surface mirrors the scenery like a mirror.
- Beneath the Great Wisteria Arbor: During the May wisteria blooming season, a fantastical space forms with purple flower clusters hanging down.
- View from Janoihana Palace: Viewing the garden from the palace’s veranda has the beauty of a painting framed in a frame.
- Autumn Foliage Walking Path: In autumn, you can walk through a tunnel of colored maple leaves, capturing photographs surrounded by foliage.
Points for Visiting by Season
- Spring (Cherry Blossoms and Wisteria Season): Early morning hours are relatively uncrowded, allowing leisurely appreciation.
- Early Summer (Hydrangeas and Water Lilies): Visiting on rainy days is also picturesque, with rain-wet hydrangeas appearing particularly beautiful.
- Autumn (Autumn Foliage): Clear mornings show the most vivid colors. Weekend visits are crowded, so weekday visits are recommended.
Estimated Time Required
- Leisurely stroll: 2 to 3 hours
- Main spots only: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Photography focused: 3 to 4 hours
Since the garden is vast, plan for over 2 hours to tour the entire area. Including a visit to the interior of Janoihana Palace requires additional time.
Events and Special Programs
Seasonal Events
Janoihana hosts various events timed to flower peak seasons. Spring cherry blossom festival, wisteria festival, autumn foliage festival, and other seasonal celebrations entertain visitors.
During event periods, local specialty exhibitions, musical performances, guided tours, and other activities may be held. Details are announced on the official website and official SNS accounts, so checking before your visit is recommended.
Illumination Information
During autumn foliage season, limited-time evening illuminations may be held. The beauty of illuminated foliage and gardens can be appreciated in a fantastical atmosphere different from daytime. The implementation and dates of illuminations vary by year and require prior confirmation.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Tourist Sites Within Motomiya City
- Mount Adatara: One of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, offering hiking and trekking.
- Iwakaku Mountain Iwakakuji Temple: A historic temple also known as a scenic viewpoint.
- Motomiya Citizen Energetic and Vigorous Support Center (Epoka): A hot spring facility where visitors can relax.
Other Flower Viewing Spots in Fukushima Prefecture
- Hanami Mountain Park (Fukushima City): Nationally famous for cherry blossoms.
- Miharu Takizakura (Miharu Town): One of Japan’s three great cherry trees, a giant tree over 1,000 years old.
- Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle (Aizu-Wakamatsu City): Castle and cherry blossom collaboration can be enjoyed during cherry blossom season.
Official Information and SNS Accounts
The latest blooming information and event information are distributed through the following official channels.
Official Website
The official website provides information on operating hours, fees, access information, and the latest flower blooming status. Be sure to check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Official SNS
- Official Instagram: Beautiful garden flower photographs are posted daily, allowing real-time confirmation of blooming status.
- Official X (formerly Twitter): Event information and temporary announcements are distributed promptly.
- Official LINE Account: Following the account may provide beneficial information and coupons.
Following these SNS is helpful when planning your visit.
Points to Note When Visiting
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: The garden utilizes natural topography with slopes and stairs. Sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Hat and Sunscreen: Strong sun in summer requires sun protection measures.
- Rain Gear: During seasons with changeable weather, bringing a folding umbrella or raincoat provides peace of mind.
- Beverages: Especially in summer, frequent hydration is important for heat stroke prevention.
Etiquette and Rules
- Damaging garden plants or picking them is prohibited.
- Prior confirmation is required regarding pet accompaniment.
- Dispose of trash in designated locations or take it with you.
- When using tripods for photography, consideration should be given to not inconveniencing other visitors during crowded times.
- In the Janoihana Palace interior, access beyond designated areas and contact with displayed items should be avoided.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Weekends during peak seasons for cherry blossoms, wisteria, and autumn foliage are particularly crowded. Consider these points to avoid congestion:
- Weekday visits
- Early hours shortly after opening (9:00 AM to 10:00 AM)
- Time before closing (3:00 PM onward)
- Timing slightly outside the peak bloom period
Conclusion: The Charm of Flower and History Village Janoihana
Flower and History Village Janoihana is a tourist attraction in Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture that harmonizes history and nature. This Japanese garden, with its history spanning over 120 years since the Meiji era, is adorned with flowers blooming throughout the seasons, providing solace to visitors.
From spring cherry blossoms through tulips, a great wisteria over 300 years old, early summer water lilies and hydrangeas, to autumn foliage, the garden displays different faces throughout the year, offering new discoveries with each visit. The Janoihana Palace, a nationally registered tangible cultural property, is also popular with history enthusiasts as a precious cultural heritage conveying Meiji-era architectural beauty and artistic works.
When visiting Fukushima Prefecture, be sure to visit Flower and History Village Janoihana. Its convenient access, approximately 10 minutes from Tohoku Expressway Motomiya IC, is also an attraction. In this space of beautiful seasonal flowers and the stillness of a historic garden, you can spend healing time away from everyday life.
Before visiting, check the official website and SNS for the latest blooming information and event information to time your visit optimally. Create lasting memories in this beautiful space where the nature and history of Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture intertwine.
