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Showing posts from February, 2012

11th Feb 2012: The Quiet Elegance of Daffodils in Shinjuku Gyoen

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Even in the cold of winter, the daffodils blooming in Shinjuku Gyoen stand gracefully, offering comfort and tranquility to those who visit. Their peak season typically spans from mid-December to early February, during which two main varieties can be enjoyed throughout the garden: Paperwhite and Japanese daffodil (Nihon Suisen). The Paperwhite variety features pure white petals and a white central corona, giving a delicate and elegant impression. In contrast, the Japanese daffodil has a yellow corona that beautifully contrasts with its white petals, and its subtle fragrance adds to its charm. These daffodils can be found in several areas of the garden, including along the path just inside the Shinjuku Gate, around the Lower Pond, near the Service Center, and in front of the Eco House. Each location offers a unique atmosphere in which to appreciate the flowers. The photos I have uploaded this time were all taken along the path immediately after entering through the Shinjuku Gate. For pho...

3rd Feb 2012: Houtouzan Robai Garden in Chichibu

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 The garden located in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, is a famous destination for robai (wax plum) flowers, which bloom every winter and attract many visitors with their vibrant yellow blossoms. The garden is situated at the foot of Mount Hōtōzan, offering opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. At the summit of the mountain stands the Hōtōzan Shrine, making it a popular tourist spot. Additionally, the Chichibu area is known for its hot springs and other tourist attractions, so it's highly recommended to explore the surrounding area after enjoying the robai flowers. Robai are winter-blooming flowers known for their strong fragrance and striking yellow color. They typically bloom from December to January, offering a splash of bright color in the cold season, becoming a winter tradition for those who visit. The Hōtōzan Robai Garden spans approximately 2.2 hectares, and thousands of robai trees are planted throughout the garden. A variety of robai species are cultivated, and ...