An iris garden in Tokyo, Japan

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Waves of purple. An iris garden in Tokyo, Japan

Flower viewing is a beloved tradition in Japan, with each season bringing its own natural spectacle. Just as the last of the spring's cherry blossom petals drift away, gardens start gearing up for their next big show: the iris bloom, like the one seen here in Tokyo. The iris genus has 310 recognized species, known for their bold and beautiful blossoms. The genus' name derives from the Greek word 'îris', meaning 'rainbow,' which is also the name of the Greek goddess of rainbows.

During the Edo Period (1603-1867), the Japanese fascination with breeding irises led to an explosion of new varieties. Today, there are over 2,000 cultivars, which are planted in March and nurtured during tsuyu, Japan's rainy season. The vibrant flowers make their grand entrance in early June, marking the start of summer. Three famous iris species flourish in the country's gardens and wild landscapes: hanashōbu (Iris ensata), kakitsubata (Iris laevigata), and ayame (Iris sanguinea).