A Guide to the World's Best Peony Gardens
1. Luoyang National Peony Garden – Luoyang, China 🇨🇳
Best time to visit: Mid-April to early May
China is the birthplace of peonies, known as the "king of flowers" in Chinese culture. Luoyang, often considered the peony capital, hosts an annual Luoyang Peony Festival, drawing millions of visitors.
Over 600 varieties of peonies
Historical roots stretching back 1,500 years
Traditional Chinese garden architecture enhances the experience
Don't miss: The black and green peonies—rare and prized varieties only found in China.
2. Kebun Raya Bogor – Bogor, Indonesia 🇮🇩
Best time to visit: April to June
This tropical botanical garden may seem an unlikely place for peonies, but it hosts a surprising collection of tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa) in a controlled environment.
Oldest botanical garden in Southeast Asia
Unique adaptation of temperate flowers to tropical climates
Why it’s special: Combines exotic flora with Dutch colonial-era buildings and Javanese landscaping.
3. Kita-no-Maru Garden – Hokkaido, Japan 🇯🇵
Best time to visit: Late May to early June
Japan has a long-standing love affair with peonies. This lesser-known Hokkaido gem features crisp northern blooms against snowy mountains.
Features both herbaceous and tree peonies
Quiet, meditative atmosphere
Near historic samurai towns
Insider tip: Visit in the early morning when the fog kisses the petals for an ethereal view.
4. Schneider Gardens – Oregon, USA 🇺🇸
Best time to visit: May to June
One of the largest peony growers in the U.S., Schneider Gardens offers row upon row of colorful blooms.
Over 500 varieties
Hybrid and heritage cultivars
U-pick options during bloom season
Highlight: Guided walking tours with stories of peony hybridization.
5. Paeonia Rock Garden at Kew – London, UK 🇬🇧
Best time to visit: Late spring
Kew Gardens holds an impressive collection of peonies, especially in the Rock Garden, where species varieties bloom in naturalistic settings.
Historic botanical research center
Educational signage for plant enthusiasts
Close to central London
Good for: Gardeners interested in botanical classification and origin species.
6. Castle Červený Kameň Gardens – Slovakia 🇸🇰
Best time to visit: May
Tucked in the Little Carpathians, the castle grounds bloom with heirloom peonies each spring.
Romantic European setting
Baroque garden design
Nearby wine cellars for a full-day visit
What makes it unique: A fairy-tale feel that combines flora, history, and folklore.
7. Bastide Rose – Provence, France 🇫🇷
Best time to visit: Late April to mid-May
This charming private estate opens to the public during peony season. The late author Poppy Salinger cultivated many varieties here.
Hundreds of peony plants in romantic French settings
Artistic displays and sculpture among the flowers
Boutique hotel experience available
Perfect for: A luxurious, intimate garden experience paired with Provençal wine.
8. Hollingsworth Peonies – Missouri, USA 🇺🇸
Best time to visit: Mid-May
A family-run farm with a world-class collection of peony cultivars. Their breeding work is internationally recognized.
Specializes in intersectional (Itoh) hybrids
Educational demonstrations on propagation and care
Peony root sales for gardeners
Cool fact: Many award-winning hybrids originated here.
✈️ Travel Tips for Peony Lovers
Book early: Peony season is short and popular. Accommodations fill up fast.
Local festivals: Many regions celebrate with parades, markets, and art exhibitions.
Photography gear: Morning and golden hour light are best for capturing the delicate textures.
Bring a sketchbook: Many gardens allow time and space for artists.
