Oyaku-en

Oyaku-en (御薬園), also sometimes romanized as Oyakuen, is a historic medicinal herb garden located in Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. Its name translates to "Medicinal Herb Garden."

Established in the mid-17th century during the Edo period by the Aizu domain, it served as a vital source of medicinal plants and a center for pharmaceutical research. The garden was originally created to provide remedies for the domain lord and his retainers, as well as to cultivate knowledge of herbal medicine.

Oyaku-en contains a wide variety of herbs, shrubs, and trees, many of which were believed to have medicinal properties. The layout of the garden is traditionally Japanese, incorporating ponds, streams, and carefully arranged plantings to create a serene and contemplative environment. Some of the plants grown there were used in traditional Kampo medicine.

Over time, Oyaku-en expanded its role to encompass the education of medical practitioners and the distribution of medicinal herbs to the local populace. It played a crucial role in public health within the Aizu domain.

Today, Oyaku-en is open to the public as a historical site and botanical garden. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the history of herbal medicine in Japan, and appreciate the beauty of the traditional Japanese garden design. The garden is considered an important cultural asset and a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional medicine. Its continued preservation allows for the public to appreciate the contribution of past generations in providing remedies for the sick and injured.