Looking for a little Asian inspiration in the middle of Germany? The Japanischer Garten right in Kaiserslautern is the perfect place to feel a little zen.
We moved from Asia to Europe, and one of the things we miss the most is a great Japanese Garden. of course, one of the first places we visited was the Japanischer Garten, Kaiserslautern, and yes, it scratched the itch.
In this article:
- The Japanischer Garten
- Where to Eat
- Rating our Experience
- Table of Distances and Times
- Getting There
- Visitor Information
- Things to Do Nearby
The Japanischer Garten
Immediately upon arriving in Kaiserslautern, you will see brown signs and fish sculptures that point your way to the Japanese garden, so we decided we wanted to go as soon as we could.
In true fashion, you will find a winding path taking you past wooden buildings, koi ponds, hills, bridges, statues, and even a zen rock garden. It’s the perfect place to center yourself for a few hours. Next time, I think I’ll bring a book. I love hearing the gurgling water and just whiling away the warm afternoon.
The garden is also the ideal place to take some family photos or take a romantic stroll with your honey. It’s quiet, pretty, and just gives you plenty of time to enjoy each other’s company.
We found out that there are a few really fun events scheduled there during the year. We might head back for the taiko drumming day or the day everyone visits and wears cosplay (Manga costumes). No matter when you go, though, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Where to Eat
I’m always impressed when you can eat on a site. It’s just so nice to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and a little snack. When that eatery is aligned with the theme of venue, I’m that much more impressed. So I was really happy to hear there was a small garden café catering to Japanese tastes.
We had a snack of gyoza and some green tea. It was a fitting way to enjoy some time outdoors and getting a little taste of Japan.
Rating Our Experience
We really enjoyed the Japanischer Garten. After having lived in Japan for over five years, Jim and I weren’t expecting too much to be honest, and we were happily surprised. Just like in many Japanese gardens we’ve visited in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and all over the country, this garden was extremely well done.
One thing I always appreciate is having a clear path to follow so that I don’t miss anything, and this garden was set up perfectly.
One thing we kind of chuckled at is the art sculptures that were dotted through the park. It was the only thing that I felt veered a little from the Japanese aesthetic, but it in no way took away from it, and it’s always a wonderful thing to celebrate local artists.
Getting There
By Car: Kaiserslautern is located off of Autobahns A6 or A63. Take the Gartenschau exit and follow your GPS. Paid parking is conveniently located across the street at Parkplatz Meuthstrasse.
By Train and Bus: Take the train to the Kaiserslautern Hauptbahnhof and from there go out and take bus number SWK 102 to the Stadtmitte Bstg Max str., then it’s only a 2 min. walk. The bus runs every 15 minutes.
Approximate Driving Distance from Major Cities and Military Communities
| Community | Driving Distance/Time | Time via Train |
|---|---|---|
| Spangdahlem | 135 km/ 1.5 hours | N/A |
| Wiesbaden | 98 km/ about 1 hour | 3.5 hours |
| Stuttgart | 194 km/ about 2 hours | 3 hours |
| Schinnen, Netherlands | 300 km/ about 3.5 hours | 5.5 hours |
| Brussels, Belgium | 362 km/ 4 hours | 5 hours |
| Grafenwöhr | 377 km/ 4 hours 10 min. | 9.5 hours |
Japanese Garden Visitor Information
Address: Am Abendsberg 1, 67657 Kaiserslautern
Opening Hours: Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:00-6:00 (winter) and 7:00 (summer). Closed Mondays.
Cost: 6.50 Euros per person (ages 12 and above)
Rules: Dogs are not allowed, and neither are play vehicles like skates, skateboards, scooters and the like. This is due to the size of the paths and the serene enjoyment of the visitors.
For up-to-date information and events calendar, check out their website.
Things to Do Nearby
There are a few really fun things to do right in Kaiserslautern and the surrounding area. Some of our favorites include:
- Gartenschau
- Nanstein Castle
- Picking Grapes along the Rhine (about an hour away)
- Trier – the Oldest City in Germany (about an hour and a half away)
- Taking a Mosel River Cruise (about an hour and a half away)
Conclusion
Whether you are visiting or you live in Kaiserslautern, one place that is really worth a couple hours of your time is the Japanischer Garten. Relax and enjoy the solitude and serenity of this green gem in the city. Oh yeah, and don’t forget your camera.
Author Bio – Corinne is an avid camper and traveler. She’s been to all 50 of the US states and has four more Canadian provinces to visit. However, she’s not stopping yet. There’s always more to see of this great continent! Corinne loves local foods, getting outdoors, landscape photography, and road trips.