It looks like Japan, but it's in Madrid: the charming corner you must visit this spring

Japan is one of the hottest destinations in 2025, and thousands of people have crossed the planet this year from Spain to the land of the rising sun. From impressive metropolises like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto to spectacular natural enclaves, the most typical sights of the Asian nation attract millions of visitors. The sakura trees , the temples so different from those found in Europe, and the Japanese culture are fascinating, but you don't have to travel thousands of miles to immerse yourself in the most typical Japanese landscapes.

Just a mere stone's throw from Madrid, in the municipality of Alcobendas, lies a vast green space reminiscent of the fantastic postcard-perfect locations you might find in Japan. The stunning Parque de la Vega is one of the most special spots in the Madrid city, and in addition to being a true oasis of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle, it also boasts certain spaces that can't be found in any other garden in the Spanish capital (or its surrounding areas).

The wonderful Parque de la Vega in Alcobendas

This enormous Japanese-inspired garden covers approximately 15,000 square meters of green space in the Arroyo de la Vega residential area and was inaugurated in 2011 through an agreement between the City Council and the Japanese Embassy. The essence of Japan can be felt in many corners of the park, although one place that stands out above the rest is undoubtedly the Peace Bell, a replica of the one seen at the UN headquarters in New York and reminiscent of the Asian country's temples.

Parque de la Vega is ideal for relaxing for a few hours with a leisurely stroll along its cobbled paths, although it's also perfect for children, as there are numerous spaces for them to enjoy the outdoors. It also houses the fantastic Bonsai Museum, where prestigious Bonsai grower Luis Vallejo has gathered numerous examples of this species so typical of Japan so you can learn about them.

The garden is one of Alcobendas' most iconic landmarks, and can be reached in just ten minutes by public transport from Madrid itself. During the spring , it takes on even greater splendor thanks to the blooming of the enormous number of rosebushes and other flowers that adorn this beautiful park, which not many people know about, but which is undoubtedly one of the best places to escape the constant hustle and bustle of the capital's metropolitan area.