Even after a month since its establishment, the Sakura Hello Kitty Garden located in the Flower Dome still remains a popular attraction for many. Within the Flower Dome, visitors get to enjoy the usual succulents and flowers available on top of its extensive exhibition.
Unfortunately, when I visited the dome, it was massively crowded — and the pouring rain didn’t make the situation any better as people crowded the area in search of shelter. Despite this, I still had a pleasant time in the dome but I do recommend visiting the dome during non-peak periods to capture amazing photos without people walking past you every second.
Read on to find out about my unique experience at this garden!
Note that due to its popularity, visitors are to strictly adhere to their booked time slots and would not be given any exceptions if they’re more than twenty minutes late.
Upon entering the dome, I was immediately greeted with a Torii, a traditional Japanese gate that is usually located at the entrance of Shinto shrines. The purpose of the Torii gate is to mark the transition from profane to sacred and sometimes a religious site. At the garden, many would most often crowd around the area to take a nice picture at the front but again, it’s nearly impossible during the peak period.
As you walk around the top floor, you’d realize the dome is quite untouched by the exhibition. Most of the artefacts are located near the exit which is heavily crowded. Getting around the dome was definitely breathtaking. The light scent of the flowers and fresh dew drops gave me a breath of literal fresh air. It was quite refreshing before getting greeted by the crowds at the lower levels.
Along the way, there were multiple pots of Sakura blossoms that screamed pink. There are two different types of blossoms available in the dome, which are the Cherry and Peach Blossom. The difference between the two is firstly their colours. The Cherry Blossom has a lighter and paler pink hue than the Peach blossom.
Following that, the Cherry Blossom symbolises renewal and hope. Whereas the Peach Blossom represents purity and womanhood. Additionally, the Peach Blossom has a stronger fragrance than the Cherry Blossom. Nonetheless, these flowers do attract a large crowd and despite their differences, it is still mesmerising to look at.
When you reach the lower floor, you’d be able to spot artefacts that offer visitors a glimpse of Japan. These shrines are extremely popular in the Shinto area. Its purpose is to house kami, scared objects, for safekeeping and not for worship. Visitors are not allowed to step into these shrines and are only allowed to appreciate its beauty and purpose from a distance. In this section of the dome, you can also spot other adorable artefacts such as the rickshaw, red-crowned cranes and Hello Kitty donned in a light pink kimono. Here is also where you can gain more information and light on the Japanese culture. From how they celebrate Spring and what each of these elements represents.
Finally, you’ll reach the literal centre of attraction, the Hello Kitty accompanying the Sakura exhibition. The purpose of the Hello Kitty is to add a more ‘kawaii’ vibe to the entire experience. It also shed light on Japan’s traditions and customs. There are pink mats, trishaws and kimono to match the pink Sakura flowers. Children and adults alike, are all crazy about the Hello Kitty feature and would patiently wait for their turn to get the perfect photo with this icon.
As you slowly conclude your journey, be sure to pop into their gift shop to check out some cute Hello Kitty merchandise and collaborations. For instance, Udders have managed to create a Sakura-infused ice cream flavor. People have commented on how fragrant and sweet the ice cream tasted. All in all, the exhibition is here to stay till 11th April so if you're missing Japan or have yet to visit the exhibition, do so before then!
Address: Gardens By The Bay, Flower Dome
Opening Hours: Daily from 9am to 9pm
Contact: 6420 6848
