Garden Layout and Features
The garden’s flowerbeds and walking paths are arranged in concentric circles around the RSK Kibi Radio Transmitter, with a radius of approximately 100 meters and an overall diameter of about 200 meters. Visitors who wish to view the transmitter up close must enter the rose garden. The garden and transmitter also serve as landmarks for one another, making them distinctive features of the surrounding area.
Garden Entrances
RSK Rose Garden has three entrances: the Main Entrance, South Entrance, and Plaza Entrance. The Plaza Entrance provides access to additional facilities, including Chibikko Athletic, a children’s play area, and a dog run.
The Main Entrance is generally closed except when arrangements have been made for group visitors and during the garden’s daily opening periods from April through June and October through November. On regular operating days, visitors should use the South Entrance or Plaza Entrance. The South Entrance is recommended for wheelchair users because it offers barrier-free access.
Opening Hours, Admission, and Holidays
Opening hours: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Regular admission: 600 yen for adults and 300 yen for children of nursery-school age and older. Group rates are 540 yen for adults and 200 yen for children.
Off-season admission: In August, September, December, and January, when roses are generally out of season, admission is reduced to 300 yen for adults and 200 yen for children.
Regular closing day: Wednesday. The garden is open every day from April through June and from October through November, its busier seasonal periods. It may also close temporarily in emergencies caused by natural disasters such as heavy rain, strong winds, or earthquakes.
Seasonal Flowers and Plants
RSK Rose Garden cultivates approximately 15,000 plants representing around 450 varieties. Each season brings a different display, from winter peonies and spring tulips to fragrant roses, irises, and hydrangeas. Visiting at different times of year offers a chance to experience the garden’s changing colors and atmosphere.
Winter Peonies and Plum Blossoms (Early February–Early March)
Winter peonies are a popular early-spring attraction, accompanied by approximately 150 plum trees whose blossoms gently frame the garden. Their delicate flowers and traditional Japanese scenery make this a lovely time to enjoy the first signs of spring.
Cherry Blossoms and Tulips (Late March–Early April)
As spring arrives, approximately 100 cherry trees bloom across RSK Plaza and the garden grounds. Brightly colored tulips add to the display, creating a cheerful seasonal landscape and welcoming the arrival of warmer weather.
Peonies and Wisteria (Mid-April–Early May)
Large-flowered Chinese peonies and other colorful peony varieties brighten the flowerbeds during this period. The eastern wisteria trellis features white and purple blossoms, while the western trellis showcases Noda-naga wisteria, also known as six-foot wisteria, with its long cascading flower clusters.
Roses (Mid-May–Mid-June and Mid-October–Late November)
Roses are the garden’s main attraction. Around 450 varieties and 12,000 rose plants produce an impressive display of colors and fragrances during two main flowering seasons: spring and autumn. These periods are particularly rewarding for visitors who want to experience the garden at its most vibrant.
Japanese Irises (Early–Late June)
After the first flush of roses fades, the Japanese iris garden comes into bloom, featuring approximately 15,000 plants across 150 varieties. Visitors can stroll through the area, which includes a traditional zigzag bridge known as a yatsuhashi and a Japanese-style pavilion, and enjoy the elegant flowers in a peaceful setting.
Hydrangeas (Mid-June–Early July)
During the rainy season, hydrangeas brighten the shaded garden paths. The collection includes lacecap hydrangeas, mountain hydrangeas, and oakleaf hydrangeas. Their rich colors and fresh appearance are especially beautiful against the soft, rain-soaked greenery.
Rock Garden (Throughout the Year)
The rock garden features wildflowers and other plants arranged to evoke the natural landscapes of mountainous regions. Its changing seasonal displays offer visitors a different view of the garden throughout the year.
Christmas Roses (Late December–Mid-March)
Christmas roses bloom delicately through the cold winter months. The collection includes both original species and hybrid varieties, bringing subtle beauty to the garden when many other plants are dormant and signaling the arrival of winter.