Japanese Garden
Ponds and bridges.
Heptazane (talk) — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Heptazane (talk) — CC BY-SA 3.0 · AFI — CC BY-SA 3.0
A broad green oasis in the west of the capital, opened on 15 August 1976 over some two million square metres and named after Dr Rafael María Moscoso, the first Dominican botanist. It is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Caribbean. The garden shows the island's native plants, from palms, ferns and cacti to orchids, along with small forests, lakes with ducks, nurseries and glasshouses, making a calm walk away from the city's bustle. Its best-known feature is the floral clock, one of the largest in the world, with hands about five metres long, fronted by fountains and pools. The Japanese Garden, with ponds, wooden bridges and clipped trees, is one of its loveliest corners. A small tourist train loops the grounds for those who prefer not to walk far, and the paths are paved. Go in the morning, as the heat builds in the afternoon. The sun is strong all year, so carry water, a hat and sunscreen.
Ponds and bridges.
Long hands.
Palms and orchids.
Los Ríos district, western Santo Domingo
Yes, a small tourist train loops the grounds for an extra fare, and the paths are paved for walking.