The moss garden of the Hakone Museum may be small but it is quite beautiful.

Within the garden are 200 varieties of moss that vary in colour (from yellow to green) and form (spiky, soft, grass-like, or feathery).

The moss forms a carpet under maple trees and spreads across many of the rocks. 

Smooth, cobbled paths wind and weave throughout this rather magical setting providing the visitor with a relaxing and contemplative experience.

Some rocks have had small trees or shrubs planted directly into them, and although we have all seen plants growing in rock crevices in nature, it remains amazing that they manage to grow in conditions without any soil.

Moss is a very delicate plant but thrives in the moist and wet conditions of this region. The understory environment also provides just enough light for the mosses to grow strongly without scorching in the strong summer sun.

These gardens require a lot of maintenance, each day fallen leaves from the trees are carefully removed so the moss is not damaged by the decaying leaves.

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the gardens as the contrast of the vibrant moss and red maples is quite stunning.

For one week during autumn the private Sekiraku-en garden attached to the moss garden is open to the public. 

This is a rockery garden and provides a beautiful counterpoint the the moss garden.