Have you heard of Claude Monet? He is famous impressionist artist born in France who dedicated his entire life creating a wonderful garden and planting beautiful plants as his art canvas.
Miles away from Monet's hometown, the only garden outside France has been replicated in Kitagawa Village in Kochi Prefecture. It was the only garden outside his hometown that has been permitted to use the name "Monet's Garden" originally located in Giverny, France.
The place will surely give you a slice of French culture in your Japan visit.
The park consists of three gardens, namely the Flower Garden, Water Garden, and the Light Garden. The first garden is an impressive selection of vivid flowers which gives vibrant vibe to everyone who will come to see it. The Water Garden is one of the most coveted spot, where Japanese wisteria, willow trees, bamboos, and selected kinds of water lilies make up the scenery. There is also a green taiko bridge over the pond that adds charm to the tranquil scenery. In the original Monet's garden, it was one of the inspirations of Monet in his painting, "Le Bassin Aux Nymphéas" (Water Lilies). The Light Garden, on the other half, was inspired by Monet's expedition in the Mediterranean Sea. It was the part original from the Kitagawa Village, and cannot be found in the original Monet's Garden. There are also a cafe, bakery, gallery and gift shop to accomodate the visitors. There is also a forest playground and Nature Forest Trail Walk that everyone can enjoy.
From Nahari Station (Tosa Kuroshio Railway's Gomen-Nahari Line), then ride Kitagawa Municipal Bus.
The garden is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 PM and 9:00 am to 4:00 PM in July and August. Admission costs 700 Yen for adults, and 630 for a group of ten above; and 300 Yen for elementary to high school students, and 270 Yen for groups of 10 and over.