The Japanese Gardens at the Irish National Stud are a 1906-1910 garden by Japanese master horticulturist Tassa Eida, laid out to symbolise the 'Life of Man' and often called the finest of their kind in Europe.
Follow the symbolic story of the Life of Man from the Gate of Oblivion, up the Hill of Ambition and across the Bridge of Life to the Hill of Mourning, through waterways, stepping stones, rocks and planting created by Tassa Eida and his son Minoru for Colonel William Hall Walker. Self-guided maps are available, and the gardens are a peaceful contrast to the working stud around them.
Designed in 1999 by Martin Hallinan, this garden celebrates the patron saint of gardeners and Ireland's monastic past, with lakes, waterfalls, woodland, limestone beehive cells and a subterranean garden of Waterford Crystal-shaped rocks. Look out for ducks, rabbits and small birds.
A guided tour is included with admission and runs at regular intervals (times vary by season). You'll see world-class stallions, mares and foals (foaling season runs February to May) and the retired Living Legends champions, including Hurricane Fly, Faugheen, Sizing John and Beef or Salmon.
Ireland's only interactive racehorse experience is included in the ticket, but you must prebook a time slot. Buy and name a horse, choose a trainer and jockey colours, then race it on a simulator.
More than 20 fairies live on the farm, each with a job to do along the woodland trail, which passes the Buglington Hotel insect shelter. A playground, picnic area and Pavilion café keep families busy, especially in summer.
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