by Bob McGregor

For the past few years, I have had the good fortune of living a 10 minute walk away from the Botanical Gardens in Saiki-ku, Itsukaichi.
After living in Hiroshima for eight years, I think this is one of the nicest spots in the area. I hope after seeing the photos and going there yourself, you will agree with me.
If you haven't visited the gardens, you might be surprised to hear that they cover over 17 hectares of land. The gardens contain an impressive variety of plant life from around the world, everything from "bonsai" to orchids.

The gardens are well worth a visit anytime of the year. All the photos in this article were taken at different times of the year, 2000.

Yes, that's right, even in winter!
A great deal of the plants are inside the huge greenhouses, this means that you can spend an enjoyable afternoon at the gardens even in the coldest months of January and February.

I personally think the gardens are particularly pretty in Fall when the large forested area becomes a myriad of fiery colors.

Getting there from Hiroshima City

Bus there is a bus available from Sogo Bus Terminal (every hour)

JR Train get off at Itsukaichi Station then get a bus (every 20 min), taxi (10 min ride), or walk (30 minute walk) to the gardens

Car follow route 2 toward Miyajima (past Al Park on the bypass), get off at the exit for Itsukaichi Station, turn right at the third big intersection and follow signs to the Botanical Gardens

Information
9:00-16:30/ Closed Fridays

Adults: ¥410
Children: ¥100
Parking: ¥410 per car/per day (¥1230/bus)

Cameraman Aren't these pictures beautiful?

Have a look at more great shots on Bob's popular website www.TreeFrog
Imaging.com