The Japanese Garden in The Hague is opening up again! Twice each year, this tranquil hideaway in The Hague opens to the public — and best of all, it’s free!
You can take a peaceful stroll through this unique garden from the end of April until the beginning of June. It’s quite a limited amount of time, so hurry up and don’t miss out!
It will be open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM. It’s the perfect way to take a break before the madness of summer begins, and it’s another free thing to do in The Hague!
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The garden has significant historical and cultural value, and aside from that, it’s very aesthetically pleasing. So grab your camera, and enjoy some quality time with ‘Japanese’ nature while you still can.
What is a Japanese garden doing in The Hague?
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 to Japan multiple times in order to pick out the plants and artefacts for her garden.
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Today, the garden is home to tons of 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 only open twice a year?
Due to its fragility, it is only open twice a year, during the spring and autumn. However, it’s not the same both times around!
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In spring, the predominant colours 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.
Rules when visiting the Japanese Garden in The Hague: handle with care
There are a few rules to keep in mind before visiting. For example, dogs are absolutely prohibited from the garden!
Strollers, baby carriages, and electric mobility devices are prohibited.
The garden has limited disabled access, although there is a separate entrance with a shorter route.
It’s important to keep in mind that the Japanese Garden is very delicate, so keep the kids on their best behaviour!
There is still so much more to see in Park Clingendael
Once you’re done touring the Japanese Garden, don’t be too quick to leave! The amazing estate of Clingendael is surrounded by vast and beautiful nature.
Inhabitants of The Hague love to enjoy a walk in the woods, explore the multiple gardens, feed the ducks and swans, or have a picnic by the water.
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.
Are you going to visit the Japanese Garden in The Hague? Don’t forget to share your best photos with us!
For all who missed the opportunity for a real visit. I have taken some 360 pictures for a virtual tour: http://www.showit360.de/en/portfolio/japanese-garden-park-clingendael
Thank you for this informative article. We love Japan and Japanese gardens. We will certainly visit this one.