Secret Garden - Tropical Dream Centre

A highlight of our trip was the Tropical Dream Centre, a secret garden tucked inside the Expo Park. As part of the day tour package, we had lunch at the Chisun Resort Kinawa Churaumi.

Instead of opting for the Acquarium visit, we decided to check out the greenhouses with over 2000 orchids. The Tropical Dream Centre is about 10 min stroll from the hotel. Tram rides also available but it seems to be travelling on opposite direction from the hotel. 

Entrance leading to the Dream Centre

There is also a greenhouse for trees. Jackfruits, chiku and even durian trees can be found here ! 

Tranquil surrounding area as we walked out of the garden. 

Don't forget to bring home some souvenirs made of flowers on your way out. And do check out the ceiling of the shop !

Jestso Tip : If you are visiting the Acquarium, you will enjoy 50% off admission for the Tropical Dream Centre. 

Biei and Shikisai-no-oka

Our first stop is Biei (美瑛) is a small town surrounded by a picturesque landscape of gently rolling hills and vast fields. 

Biei Hills

Next is Shikisai-no-oka. The name Shikisai-no-Oka is created by combining "Shikisai (color)" and "Shiki (four seasons)". The beautiful garden provides spectacular views across seven hectares of land on Oka-no-Machi (hilly town) Biei.

Here's the entrance where you can do some shopping and try the lavender ice-cream

Mascot of the garden named Roll-kun (Little Boy Roll). There is also Roll-chan (Little Girl Roll) but I didn't manage to take a picture

How lovely !

Lavender is in full bloom in August

Rows of beautiful flowers in full bloom !

Don't forget to do some shopping before you leave ! The shops sell all kinds of Lavendar scented candles, soap, fragrances !