Spatial characteristics of nature-based experience areas for children in botanical gardens

In recent times, there have been several discussions in Japan regarding the development of nature-based experience areas for children, within botanical gardens. However, currently, many botanical gardens only have permanent quiz boards which are not sufficient to create an environment that would optimally enrich children's experiences. We conducted a questionnaire-based survey of botanical gardens across Japan to understand their current situation, especially with regard to the presence or absence of experience areas for children and visitors' satisfaction levels. Thereafter, we visited the botanical gardens that have such experience areas to obtain first-hand knowledge of their spatial characteristics, their constituent elements, and why they should be installed. We found out that, in terms of satisfaction with the environment and programs for children, satisfaction with physical aspects was half that of satisfaction with activity programs; 12 of the botanical gardens nationwide had such experience areas for children. Furthermore, these botanical gardens have areas where children can engage in creative play experiences, places for health promotion using the five senses, and places that encourage children's participation.