ACAO FOREST

Overview

ACAO FOREST is a sprawling garden in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, boasting an area 13 times the size of Tokyo Dome. Opened in 1988 as the Soga Forest Natural Garden, it was renamed Akao Herb & Rose Garden in 2002. In 2021, it was renamed again to ACAO FOREST following a change in the operating company, with a new focus on high-end clientele. The garden features 13 themed gardens, including rose, herb, and Japanese gardens, showcasing a riot of seasonal flowers. Given its size and hilly terrain, the best approach is to take the internal bus to the top from the entrance and then walk down, exploring each garden at your leisure. The views from the internal bus are magnificent, offering a truly immersive experience of Atami's natural beauty. The cafe, "COEDA HOUSE," designed by Kengo Kuma, is particularly noteworthy, blending seamlessly with its surroundings and offering stunning architectural beauty. From the cafe, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sagami Bay. ACAO FOREST also boasts other highlights, such as the "Tencho" Japanese garden featuring the world's largest bonsai, "Houou no Matsu," and the Ocean Garden, showcasing approximately 150 Atami cherry blossoms and a vast field of rapeseed flowers. ACAO FOREST is a tranquil space where nature and art converge. Be sure to visit when you're in Atami.