Discover Nature in Kochi at Makino Botanical Garden

Curious about a deeper, lesser-known nature escape in Kochi, Shikoku? Makino Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat filled with flowers and greenery, inspired by Japan’s legendary botanist, Dr. Tomitaro Makino. Covering around 8 hectares, the garden is home to over 3,000 plant species that change with the seasons. Just a 20-minute drive from central Kochi, it’s a must-visit for plant lovers. The greenhouse features rare plants from around the world, and you can even see the five-story pagoda of nearby Chikurinji Temple from the garden. Don’t miss the on-site restaurant, where you can enjoy local Kochi flavors. Nature, history, and great food—all in one beautiful spot.

Who Was Tomitaro Makino?
Explore His Legacy at the Makino Memorial Hall
Discover Rare Plants in the Greenhouse
When to Visit & Where to Explore

Who Was Tomitaro Makino?

Tomitaro Makino (1862–1957) was a passionate botanist from Kochi who devoted his life to studying plants. At a time when transportation was still limited, he traveled across Japan on foot to observe and collect specimens. Over his lifetime, he gathered around 400,000 samples and gave scientific names to more than 1,500 plant species. His detailed botanical drawings—known as the “Makino style”—are still used today in research and education.

Explore His Legacy at the Makino Memorial Hall

Inside the garden, the Tomitaro Makino Memorial Hall showcases Dr. Makino’s life and work through hands-on exhibits and immersive displays. The building itself blends traditional Tosa design with modern techniques, creating a calm, wood-filled space. About 250 of his favorite plants are grown in the courtyard, and a 4K theater brings the world of plants to life with stunning visuals.

Discover Rare Plants in the Greenhouse

The garden’s greenhouse is open year-round and features tropical plants, flowers, and fruit trees from Japan and abroad. Don’t miss the Green Tower, a 9-meter structure inspired by a tree hollow, where dramatic aerial roots climb toward the ceiling. Other highlights include the Water Garden, filled with beautiful waterside plants, and the Jungle Zone, which feels like a tropical rainforest—each offering a unique plant experience.

When to Visit & Where to Explore

Spring is the most colorful, but Makino Botanical Garden is beautiful year-round. For scenic views, head to Konkon-yama Lookout, where you can see Chikurinji’s pagoda and the Pacific Ocean from 131 meters up—perfect for photos. Want to engage your senses? Visit Fumu Fumu Field, where you can touch, smell, and connect with plants in a more hands-on way.