One of the largest Christmas markets in the Kanto area! Enjoy the New Year's flowers at the Winter Botan in Toshogu Shrine, Ueno, Tokyo!

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Winter Peony
The wind is getting colder these days. The autumn leaves are almost finished and the flower season is over...but did you know that there are flowers that are at their best in the cold winter? Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Onshi Park in Tokyo, enshrines Ieyasu Tokugawa as its god, and has a "Botan Garden. You can enjoy the view of snow-covered ground and botan along with authentic Edo architecture such as the shrine pavilions and five-story pagoda. The colorful winter peonies that stand out on a snowy day can only be seen at this time of year! In this issue, we will introduce you to winter peonies that are as beautiful as the snow.

Ueno Toshogu Botan Garden, where you can enjoy seasonal peonies

The Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden was opened on the grounds of Ueno Toshogu Shrine to commemorate the friendship between Japan and China. Currently, 500 peonies of 110 varieties are planted in the circular Japanese garden in spring, and 160 peonies of 40 varieties are grown in winter. The "Ueno Toshogu Shrine Winter Peony Festival" is held every year from January 1 to mid-February, the "Spring Peony Festival" from mid-April to mid-May, and the "Dahlia Aya Nasu Autumn Garden" from late September to late October. You can take your time to appreciate them in the Japanese garden with an Edo-style atmosphere. Located within the grounds of Ueno Toshogu Shrine, why not visit after your visit?

Outline of "Winter Peony at Toshogu Shrine, Ueno

Open: Thursday, January 1, 2026 to late February
Hours: 9:30 - 16:30 (Entry deadline)
Admission: Adults (junior high school students and older) 1,000 yen / Groups (15 people and older) 800 yen / Elementary school students and younger free
Toshogu Shrine, Ueno

What is "winter peony"?

Peonies are usually at their best from April to May, but those in bloom in winter are called "winter peonies" or "kanbotan (cold peonies). The way to distinguish them is simple. Winter peonies" are those that bloom with green leaves even in winter, and "Kanbotan" are those that have only flowers but no leaves. Winter peonies" are peonies that bloom in spring, but are mistaken for spring peonies due to temperature control or other reasons, and are made to bloom in winter. Therefore, they are vulnerable to the cold and are covered with straw fencing. The "kanpotan" is a variety that blooms mainly in winter from the start. Because they use all of their nutrients for flowers, they have almost no leaves.
Five-story pagoda and winter peony
The flowering rate is low, said to be less than 20%, because the flowers are greatly affected by the natural environment. Therefore, they were made to bloom in winter, when flowers are scarce, as a good luck flower for the New Year. The "Ueno Toshogu Shrine Winter Botan" is a rare opportunity to see both. The popular winter peony varieties include "Yachiyo Tsubaki," "Shimanishiki," and "Oukan," while the cold peony variety includes "Togawakan.
Winter peony covered with straw

Highlights of "Winter Peony at Toshogu Shrine, Ueno

The "Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival" is one of the largest in the Kanto area, even though it is located in Tokyo. 160 winter peonies and winter peonies of 40 varieties can be seen. The rows of straw peonies for protection from frost are adorable. The Japanese garden with its dry landscape is very atmospheric, filled with peonies, a traditional Japanese flower. In addition to winter peonies and cold peonies, depending on the season, you can see them with new spring flowers such as red plum blossoms, weeping plum blossoms, and Kawazu cherry blossoms.

For those who want to make peonies bloom at home, there is a beginner's workshop for those who want to learn how to make peonies bloom for the first time. Please check the official SNS below for the latest information.
Winter peony and wax gourd
Instagram】Ueno Toshogu Botan Garden (official)

Enjoy winter peony in Tokyo

The "Ueno Toshogu Winter Botan" is an event that combines the beauty of winter and tranquility with a splendor that will make you forget the coldness of winter. The fantastic scenery, which can only be seen in winter, will warm your heart. If you are planning to visit Ueno in winter, please visit this event. The fleeting yet powerful "winter peonies" will welcome you.
Winter peony covered with straw
Ueno Toshogu Botan Garden Winter Peony Schedule

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable price individual travel product available only on the web. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to get a discount as early as the day of departure. We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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