Gardens & Art

Ube, in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is best known for Tokiwa Park, a vast 100-hectare lakeside retreat that surrounds Lake Tokiwa with cherry blossoms, seasonal flowers, and scenic walking trails. Home to over 3,500 cherry trees, the park is especially popular in spring and is recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, with stunning views from Sakurayama and Swan Lake, particularly at night. Within the park, visitors can enjoy Tokiwa Zoo, which features naturalistic habitats for animals like monkeys and capybaras, as well as the internationally acclaimed UBE Biennale Sculpture Hill, showcasing outdoor contemporary art. With its blend of nature, art, and family-friendly attractions, Ube offers a well-rounded destination for relaxation and cultural exploration.