Signs of spring are popping up all around us in Western New York (finally!), and one of the best places to see nature in bloom is tucked away in one of the Olmsted Parks at the Japanese Garden. See the sistership between Buffalo and Kanazawa, Japan and experience authentic Japanese landscape design without the long flight time!

Head to the Japanese Garden on the grounds of the Buffalo History Museum.

Find it at 1 Museum Court, Buffalo. When in doubt, look for the beautiful building and budding cherry blossoms on Mirror Lake!

Serenity now.

The garden was constructed in 1974 by the hands of several American and Japanese landscape architects, gardeners, and Japanese garden designers to give it an authentic feel. Speaking of feelings... there's no way you won't feel a renewed sense of relaxation when you look out at the islands reflecting on Mirror Lake.

The Japanese Garden is perfect for picnics.

Come alone for some "me time," bring the kids, or invite a loved one for a romantic afternoon under the cherry blossoms. The garden is perfect for picnicking, study breaks, and enjoying the fresh air in the peace and quiet.

Learn a little, too!

Signs, plaques, and stones guide you through the garden, detailing the history of how it was built as you stroll along the walkways.

The garden is beautiful year-round.

Whenever you plan your visit to the Japanese Garden, you'll be inspired by its beauty! Different plants and trees bloom throughout the seasons, and the monuments and authentic Japanese accents are just waiting to discovered.

You'll be in good company, too!

Since the Japanese Garden is so close to the Buffalo History Museum, you'll have a watchful eye looking over you from the museum steps. If learning the history of the garden isn't enough to quench your thirst for knowledge, you can head inside the museum to discover even more about our city!

Save the date for the Cherry Blossom Festival!

The Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual celebration held at the Japanese Garden in spring. The festival is perfectly timed to watch the trees bloom.

This year, the festival falls on April 29th. Mark your calendars for this beautiful event, and you'll realize that you don't have to travel far to get a glimpse of Japan!

Have you escaped to the Japanese Garden yet? If not, now is the perfect time to experience its beauty! Share your favorite spot to take in the scenery around Buffalo in the comments section!