The Ja no Hana Gardens (蛇の鼻) are located in Motomiya, in the central area of Fukushima. From spring to autumn, this vast park features a display of natural wonders like cherry blossoms, wisteria, roses, hydrangeas, water lilies, and autumn leaves. It is particularly famous for its 500-year-old wisteria tree that typically blooms in May.
There is also a historical residence, Ja no Hana-goten (Ja no Hana mansion), which is a registered tangible cultural property of Japan. Built in 1904, the impressive residence has intricate wooden carvings in the front entrance, and houses artworks and calligraphy works, often housing exhibitions. Visitors can enter the house and look at the artwork up close.
Best season:
- Cherry blossoms: Early to late April
- Tulips: April to early May
- Peonies: Early to mid May
- Japanese wisteria: Early to late May
- Azaleas: Early to mid May
- Roses: Most varieties reach their peak around late May; from then until November, other varying kinds might be in bloom
- Water lilies: June to July
- Autumn leaves: Late October to November