The Japanese Garden in The Hague is now open! So grab your camera and enjoy some quality time with ‘Japanese’ nature while you still can.
Do you feel like you want to connect with nature, but not this nature? A different nature. An exciting nature! Well, nature is nature but if you’re that picky then we have just the place for you. The Japanese Garden in park Clingendael is open once again for a limited amount of time, so don’t miss out!
But what is a Japanese Garden even doing in The Hague: The History
Formed around 1910, this amazingly beautiful garden exists thanks to the former owner of the country estate of Clingendael. Marguerite M. Baroness van Brienen, or Lady Daisy (how fitting!), had a fascination with Japanese nature. In fact, Lady Daisy herself sailed off multiple times to Japan in order to pick out the plants and artefacts for her garden. Today, the garden is home to multiple Japanese plants and trees, as well as authentic Japanese lanterns, sculptures, small bridges, two water casks and a pavilion. Due to its uniqueness, the garden was declared a national monument in 2001.
Why is the Japanese Garden open only twice a year, you my ask: Spring and Autumn
Like all good things in life, you have to wait in order to see the Japanese Garden in The Hague. Due to fragility it is open twice a year during the spring and autumn. However, it is not the same both times around! In spring the predominating colors in the garden are pink and purple, while in autumn it is orange and red. So you should definitely check it out during both seasons. In the spring of 2018, the Japanese Garden in park Clingendael is open from the 28th of April to the 10th of June. In the fall of 2018, the garden will be open from the 13th of October to the 28th of October. For more info you can check out The Hague’s official page for the Japanese Garden.
Rules when visiting the Japanese Garden in The Hague: Handle with Care
Since the Japanese Garden is so fragile, there are some rules to keep in mind before visiting. For example, dogs are absolutely prohibited from the garden! So no, unfortunately you can’t play fetch with Max whilst also feeling zen. Also, due to the garden’s fragility, strollers or baby carriages and electric mobility devices are also not allowed inside. The garden offers only limited access to people in a wheelchair through a separate entrance with a special shorter route. It is also important to keep in mind that the Japanese Garden is very delicate, so stay within the path and definitely do not pick anything!
There is still so much more to see: Park Clingendael
Once you’re done touring the Japanese Garden, don’t be so quick to leave and explore Clingendael. This amazing estate is surrounded by vast and beautiful nature. You can enjoy a walk in the woods, explore the multiple gardens, feed the ducks and swans, or have a picnic by the water. There is also a small cafe, and a playground for the children. Oh, and Max is allowed to play fetch there!
The Japanese Garden in The Hague is the perfect place to go when you’re trying to get your zen on and escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. Oh, and let’s not forget that it is for free! So grab your camera, and become one with nature, while also making some good quality Instagram pics.
Are you going to visit the Japanese Garden in The Hague this spring? Don’t forget to share with us your best photos and tell us how it went!
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