From Berlin to Japan, Bali, China or Korea? No need to jet around the world. In the middle of Berlin-Marzahn lies one of the city’s many particularly relaxing parks, but this one has it all. Of course, we’re talking about the famous Gardens of the World. Here you’ll find over 43 hectares of international garden art and landscape architecture. Without leaving Berlin, you can go on a trip around the world and have the chance to immerse yourself in the deepest traditions of foreign cultures.
The Gardens of the World were originally opened in 1987 as the Berlin Garden Show, but have steadily expanded. Five years ago, they were even awarded the European Garden Prize. They are a huge crowd puller: In recent years, there have been record numbers of visitors, with over one million guests regularly visiting each year – no wonder given the diverse range of attractions.
A trip around the world
The Gardens of the World celebrate garden art and architecture from different continents and eras. At the heart of the park are the eleven themed gardens and nine international garden cabinets, which offer authentic insights into foreign cultures. Each of them reflects a piece of the world.
The largest of its kind in Europe is the Chinese Garden, also known as the “Garden of the Reclaimed Moon”. It was built by skilled Chinese workers using materials from Beijing. With its teahouse by the large lake and the zigzag bridge, this part of the park looks like a scene straight out of a classical scholar’s garden.
The Oriental-Islamic Garden lies behind a four meter high wall. Through the “Hall of Receptions” you enter the four-part garden courtyard with fountain, which transports you to a fairy tale from the Arabian Nights. The Japanese Garden with its waterfall is a place of peace and contemplation. It is a project of the Berlin-Tokyo city partnership and was actually designed by a Zen priest.
Flying high with Berlin’s only cable car
Another special feature is the cable car built for the 2017 International Garden Exhibition. It is the only one in Berlin! You can enjoy soaring views over the entire park and the Berlin skyline with all its sights. It also takes you directly from Kienberg – Gärten der Welt subway station to the main entrance.
There are also two large labyrinths in the gardens. In the 2000 square meter hedge maze garden and the stone cobblestone labyrinth, you can solve various puzzles and have a great time with younger visitors. A lost place, so to speak, that invites you to get lost!
And if you like Erich Kästner, you should definitely visit the huge playground “Konrad rides into the South Seas” . It is based on the children’s book “The 35th of May”. With a climbing wall and a large water playground, this place in the park is a must for families. Guided tours and unusual events are offered time and again: From Advent wreath making to Chinese moon festivals, there is something from all cultures. It’s well worth a visit!