
A Japanese garden holiday with Gardens Illustrated
Travel with Japanese garden expert Hannah Gardner on this far-reaching, two-week itinerary and discover some of Japan’s most compelling gardens from 15-29 September 2022
The tour starts with a visit to the internationally celebrated contemporary gardens of Tokachi Millennium Forest, designed by Dan Pearson and situated on Japan’s most northerly island, Hokkaido.

You’ll learn about the spirit of nature and sense of place from head gardener and international speaker Midori Shintani, as well as enjoying a cultural workshop and foraged forest lunch prepared by the gardeners. Returning to the mainland you will delve into the traditional gardens, culture and the unforgettable architecture of Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto and Nara, where gardens will provoke thought and delight in equal measure.

Meet with the gardeners of the Chion-in Temple who will demonstrate the fine art of niwaki pruning and offer advice on the tools they use. Discover both renowned gardens and lesser-known hidden cultural gems, such as the beautifully preserved historic Sumiya Pleasure House in Kyoto. The varied landscapes visited meld the intimate essence of nature with the disciplines of cosmology, poetry and meditation and through Hannah’s formal and informal instruction, your journey will unpick the complexity and seek to understand the history and meaning of these serene and spiritual landscapes.
Booking details
Tour dates 15-29 September 2022
Tour leader Hannah Gardner Kew trained horticulturist, Hannah works as a head gardener and garden consultant with a particular passion for studying plant communities worldwide – including time spent in Japan. She writes The Outsider column for Gardens Illustrated.
Booking details Price per person, based on two people sharing is £6,280 (a single supplement of £1,140 is levied by the hotels).
Price is based on all hotels, trains, other transportation, most meals and all sightseeing. It does not include hotel extras or travel insurance, or international flights, although these can be arranged through Distant Horizons if required. For more details and for an in-depth itinerary with details of day-to-day visits, meals, etc, please contact Distant Horizons.
For more information or to book please contact Distant Horizons, 13 Melloncroft Drive, Caldy, The Wirral, Cheshire CH48 2JA, UK. Tel 0151 625 3425, email info@distanthorizons.co.uk website distanthorizons.co.uk
This tour has been arranged exclusively for readers of Gardens Illustrated by Distant Horizons, organisers of cultural and garden journeys since 1996. Please note that itineraries may be subject to change for reasons beyond Gardens Illustrated’s control.
FIX YOUR PRICE FOR THE YEAR- HALF PRICE SALE!
Special offer to celebrate RHS Chelsea Flower Show! Get a whole year of Gardens Illustrated magazine for just £30 and FIX YOUR PRICE!- saving over 50%. Subscribe today and enjoy beautiful places, top planting ideas and expert advice for your garden. *Offer ends 1st July 2022. This offer is only available to UK residents paying by Direct Debit
Container Gardening Special Edition
The Gardens Illustrated Guide to Container Gardening. In this special edition, discover colourful flower combinations and seasonal planting schemes for pots designed by leading plantspeople, and essential know-how for container gardening success. Just £9.99 inc UK p&p
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.