Kawazu Mountain Garden Shop
While hiking the Kawazu Seven Falls Trail in Kawazu, Japan (Izu Peninsula), we came across this darling miniature garden shop set-up. These tiny gardens, set within small bamboo planters, were for sale at the base of a mountainside path up to a restaurant and guest house. I wanted to buy a few so badly, but I couldn’t take them home with me as bringing plants home from another country is a tedious process. Still, I wanted to share this Kawazu Mountain Garden Shop with you in case you’re ever in the area and in need of a great gift!
Payments were on the honour system, with no one to ask questions. I couldn’t quite read the sign well enough to understand much beyond paying the amount listed on the price tag and the offer to take a bag. Still, it was pretty straightforward: pick a plant, put the equivalent amount into the affixed tin, and carry on. I couldn’t believe how pretty every one of them was!
This moss, fern, and stalk set into a seashell was my favorite. I’d love to find some conch shells next time we’re at the ocean and take them home as planters! It’s such a creative idea. Whoever made each of these did so with tremendous care, skill, and attention to detail. There wasn’t a stray tuft of moss in sight, and every single plant was thriving.
Two of each, please!
“Not yet open for business” sign, referring to the restaurant I mentioned. They were still preparing to open, so we didn’t investigate further. I wonder what it will be like!
Stay tuned for my guide to hiking this incredible forested path through the mountains, which takes travelers past seven glorious waterfalls, through crystal-clear mountain springs, and into stunning turquoise pools surrounded by ferns, hexagonal rocks, and watery gorges. It was easily one of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever been on. Truly, the views were unmatched!
Follow my adventures in the Izu Peninsula and Japan.
