Growing from its humble beginnings as an ash dump in the 1800’s this 52 acre garden has evolved to become the very best in urban greening, horticultural expertise and display. The garden’s core values are focused on education, sustainable practices and stewardship. It is leading in having a Children’s Garden established since 1914 where children are allowed to grow flowers, vegetables and herbs. Here they learn first-hand about growing and the natural world which surrounds them. There is a wonderful cherry esplanade that blooms in April every year attracting many visitors to experience the garden’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The Japanese hill and pond garden is one of the oldest and most visited outside of Japan. A spectacular sight it features wooden bridges, a viewing pavilion and Shinto shrine. There are also impressive glasshouse pavilions which showcase plant species from around the world.
