This year, Mizunomori Botanical Gardens in Kusatsu, Shiga Prefecture was awarded the first Lovers’ Sanctuary Regional Revitalization Grand Prize. This follows the park’s reception of becoming certified by the “Lover’s Sanctuary” project.
(Image: seibu-la.co.jp)
Mizunomori Botanical Gardens lies on the banks of Shiga Prefecture’s Lake Biwa. The park wants to known as a “love power spot”, and is currently attempting to implement various events and promotional activities related to the theme of love. Furthermore, both the public and private sectors are now working together to revitalize activities and implement conservation efforts within the area.
The Lover’s Sanctuary Project is a project that spans throughout each region in Japan and has approximately 214 locations. Prizes such as the Lovers’ Sanctuary Regional Revitalization Grand Prize are awarded to companies, governments, and groups that are creating efforts and developing measures for regional revitalization efforts, as well as methods to combat the declining birth rate.
(Image: seibu-la.co.jp)
The Mizumori Botanical Gardens rests on the shores of Lake Biwa. This garden is filled with breathtaking lotus and water lily plants, which add an enriching atmosphere to the park. Visitors are able to view mountains, the lake, and various rare plants within the garden’s vicinity. Mizumori Botanical Gardens was selected to be a Lover’s Sanctuary Satellite in 2016 and join other nationwide establishments. In addition to the Lover’s monument, the garden also has a store that sells gifts and sweets for couples visiting the park.
In the past, the park was seen as a place where seniors spent their time. Now, thanks to revitalization efforts and its certification within the Lovers’ Sanctuary Project, the number of young visitors and couples who are visiting the park is increasing. Furthermore, projects between companies and local municipalities have also surged. Due to continuous efforts, wedding showcases are now being held at the botanical gardens, which include a number of plant arrangement activities.
The Lover’s Sanctuary Project has brought growth in tourism within the area. Thanks to the efforts of companies and local municipalities, tourism has and will continue to increase within throughout Shiga Prefecture.
(This interview was originally published on Zenbird Media.)
[Reference] Grand prize of the first Lovers’ Sanctuary Project goes to Mizunomori