Hamarikyu Gardens has an incredible history. It used to be a villa for the shogun’s family during the Edo period. Even now, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time when you visit!What’s really cool is that it’s surrounded by skyscrapers. You get to see this old Japanese garden with modern Tokyo in the background. It’s a uniquely Japanese view.The garden is huge – 25 hectares! It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. There are ponds, bridges, and teahouses where you can really soak in the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens.But the best part? The scenery changes with each season. Let me take you through the year at Hamarikyu!
💡Info
URL:https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index028.html
Address:1-1 Hamarikyuteien, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0046, Japan
Opening Hours:9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Open Days:Open year-round (Closed from December 29 to January 1 for New Year’s holidays)
Admission Fees:Adults: 300 yen,Seniors (65 and over): 150 yen
Spring at Hamarikyu: Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Greenery
Spring at Hamarikyu is absolutely stunning!
From late March to early April, about 100 cherry trees burst into bloom. The contrast between the pink blossoms and the green lawn is gorgeous.The best spot is around the Shioiri-no-ike Pond. The cherry blossoms reflected in the water look like a painting. Don’t forget your camera!Even after the cherry blossoms fall, there’s more to see. From mid-April to May, fields of canola flowers spread out like a yellow carpet.Then comes the fresh green season. The vibrant color of the new leaves is so soothing. It’s the perfect place to refresh yourself away from the city buzz!
Summer at Hamarikyu: A Cool Oasis
In summer, Hamarikyu becomes a cool oasis that makes you forget the heat.
June brings about 3,000 hydrangea plants into bloom. Blue, purple, pink – these colorful flowers paint the garden. If you visit on a rainy day, you’ll get to enjoy a serene atmosphere.During the hot months of July and August, I recommend hanging out near the Shioiri-no-ike Pond. The breeze from the pond feels great.You might want to try some cold matcha at the Nakajima-no-ochaya teahouse. Enjoying it with traditional Japanese sweets really adds to the Japanese experience.In the evening, the setting sun reflects off the skyscrapers, making the whole garden seem to glow golden. This dreamy scenery is a unique charm of Hamarikyu in summer.
Autumn at Hamarikyu: The Beauty of Fall Colors
Hamarikyu is famous for its beautiful autumn colors.
From mid-November to early December, the trees in the garden turn red and yellow. The golden ginkgo tree avenue is especially beautiful!The view of the autumn leaves from the small hill called “Fujimi-yama” is breathtaking. You can see the colorful foliage with Tokyo Tower and skyscrapers in the background. It’s a view you can only get in Tokyo.In autumn, they also hold moon-viewing events. It’s a chance to experience a traditional Japanese autumn custom!There’s also a spot called “Kamoba” where the shogun used to hunt ducks. In autumn, migratory birds come here. It’s a great spot for bird watchers.
Winter at Hamarikyu: Beauty in Silence
Winter at Hamarikyu has its own quiet beauty.
As the leaves fall, you can see the garden’s structure more clearly. You can really appreciate the beauty of the tree branches and the intricate stonework.On clear days, the contrast between the blue sky and the garden is amazing! The air is so clear that you might even be able to see Mt. Fuji.On cold days, I recommend having a hot cup of matcha at the Nakajima-no-ochaya teahouse. It’s a great way to experience a Japanese winter.From January 1st to 3rd, there’s a special New Year’s opening. Watching the first sunrise of the year at Hamarikyu would be really special. What better way to start the Japanese New Year than in such a quintessentially Japanese place?
Hamarikyu Gardens is a special place right in the heart of Tokyo where you can enjoy the beauty of Japan in all four seasons.Cherry blossoms in spring, cool landscapes in summer, autumn colors, and winter tranquility. No matter when you visit, you’ll encounter a uniquely Japanese beauty that can only be seen at that time.Plus, the contrast between the surrounding skyscrapers and the Japanese garden is like seeing old and new Japan side by side. It’s a view you can’t get anywhere else.Hamarikyu Gardens is like a miniature version of Japan where you can experience the four seasons, tradition, and modern Tokyo all at once. It’s definitely one of the places you should visit when you come to Tokyo.
I guarantee you’ll fall in love with the beauty of Japan!
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