Wonderful gardens centered around the lake. Two species of roses I have never seen before--the Swamp Rose (blue) and a rose with large RED thorns in La Billings Garden in the woodland area. 400 varieties of roses and 300 Perennials in Beds and Borders in 8.16 acres. We went the last week in June after a very dark rainy season but still so much beauty! The autumn hours start at 9am when the fragrance is best! The Manor House Nakagawa was closed that day but eating casual French while looking at the French Rose Garden would be wonderful! But just as great- we had Fish & Chips at the cafe outdoors looking at the English Rose Garden and the Megane (Spectacles) Bridge. The ROSE Lemonade was delicious and I don't know where else you could try it!. Garden Shop with reasonably priced plants used in the gardens and Mary Rose, a shop with Rose motif items, see pictures. Garden Motto: For All Who Love Nature.

The last couple of weeks have been cold in Karuizawa and no roses, or tulips have even formed buds and tree branches are bare of even any leaves. This place really should not be open as it's just a bunch of brown spikey branches right now. Very scary. Recommend phoning around mid May to see if the situation has changed. Also, if you do go it's best to drive car. The bus only runs once an hour max.