Chinzan-sō Garden is a stunning Japanese garden located in Bunkyō, Tokyo. It was founded in 1877 and is known for its rich history and artifacts. The garden is situated on the grounds of the Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo and is open to the public.
The garden was once the estate of a Meiji-era statesman and has been transformed into a breathtaking oasis. The shaded pathways are lined with beautiful antiquities that have been transported from all over Japan.
You can stroll through the garden and admire the stunning 16.7m three-storey pagoda, estimated to be nearly a millennium old, and other historic relics.
History
The garden was originally built in the Meiji era by a wealthy businessman named Aritomo Yamagata. Yamagata was a successful entrepreneur who made his fortune in the silk trade, and he built the garden as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
After Yamagata’s death, the garden was sold to a group of investors who turned it into a restaurant and entertainment complex. During World War II, the garden was heavily damaged by Allied bombing, and it fell into disrepair in the post-war years.
In the 1990s, the garden was acquired by the Fujita Corporation, a Japanese real estate company, which restored the garden to its former glory. Today, the garden is a popular tourist attraction and event space, hosting weddings, concerts, and other special events throughout the year.
Visitors to Chinzan-sō Garden can explore the garden’s many paths and trails, which wind through lush greenery and past waterfalls, ponds, and other scenic features. The garden also contains several historic buildings, including a teahouse, a pagoda, and a villa that once belonged to Yamagata himself.
Overall, Chinzan-sō Garden is a testament to the enduring beauty of traditional Japanese gardens, and a must-see destination for anyone interested in Japanese gardens.
Features
Here are some of the features that make this garden so special:
- Historic Artifacts: Founded in 1877, the garden is rich in historic remains and artifacts. Visitors can see old stone lanterns, pagodas, and even a statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon.
- Seasonal Flowers: The garden is home to a wide variety of seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms, azaleas, and hydrangeas. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of these beautiful blooms throughout the year.
- Water Features: The garden is dotted with ponds, waterfalls, and streams, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere. Visitors can relax and enjoy the soothing sounds of running water while taking in the beautiful scenery.
- Restaurant: The garden is home to several restaurants, including the Michelin-starred restaurant, Il Teatro. Visitors can enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the garden.
Attractions
Chinzan-sō Garden is one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Tokyo. Here are some of the top attractions to see while visiting the garden:
- The Pagoda: The 16.7m, three-story pagoda is estimated to be nearly a millennium old and is a must-see attraction in the garden.
- The Waterfall: The waterfall is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and relax while enjoying the soothing sound of the water.
- The Tea House: The tea house is a traditional Japanese-style building that offers visitors a chance to enjoy a cup of tea while taking in the beautiful garden views.
- The Stone Bridge: The stone bridge is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the stunning views of the garden.
- The Cherry Blossoms: During the spring, the garden is filled with beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) parties.
Events
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Chinzan-sō Garden is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon. But did you know that the garden also hosts a variety of events throughout the year?
One of the most popular events at Chinzan-sō is the firefly viewing in early summer. During this magical event, visitors can see thousands of fireflies lighting up the garden at night. The event is typically held in late May or early June, so be sure to check the Chinzan-sō website for exact dates.
In addition to the firefly viewing, the garden also hosts a number of other seasonal events. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the cherry blossoms and take part in hanami (flower viewing) picnics. In the fall, the garden is ablaze with autumn colors, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
If you’re interested in Japanese culture, be sure to check out the traditional tea ceremonies held in the garden’s tea house. These ceremonies are a great way to experience the beauty and tranquility of Japanese tea culture.
Finally, if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, be sure to check out the garden’s restaurant, Kinsui. The restaurant offers a range of Japanese cuisine, including sushi, tempura, and shabu-shabu, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Visiting Information
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s bustling city, Chinzan-sō Garden is a must-visit attraction. Here’s some information to help you plan your trip:
- Location: Chinzan-sō Garden is located in the Bunkyō ward of Tokyo, near Edogawabashi Station. You can also access it from Waseda Station or Gokokuji Station.
- Hours: The garden is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with last admission at 4:30pm.
- Admission: Admission to the garden is 1,500 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for high school and college students, and 500 yen for elementary and junior high school students. Children under 6 years old are free.
- Facilities: There are several restaurants and cafes within the garden, as well as a gift shop. Restrooms are also available.
- Guided tours: Guided tours of the garden are available in English and Japanese for an additional fee. Check the garden’s website for more information.
Overall, Chinzan-sō Garden is a serene and picturesque destination that’s well worth a visit during your time in Tokyo.
Information
| Name | Chinzan-sō Garden 椿山荘 |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00-19:00 |
| Closed | without a holiday |
| Fee | free |
| Address | 2-10-8 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo |
| Telephone | 03-3943-1111 |
How To Get To Chinzan-sō Garden
About 10 minutes walk from Edogawabashi Station Exit 1a on the Yurakucho Line.
Nearby Spots
- 0.1km – Sekiguchi Bashoan: Matsuo Basho lived here and built Ryugakuin-an, which later became known as Sekiguchi Bashoan (Basho’s Hermitage in Sekiguchi)
- 0.2km – Eiseibunko: Weapons and artifacts from the Hosokawa family are on display.
- 0.3km – Tokyo St. Mary’s Cathedral: The 39.4-meter-high, cross shaped cathedral was designed by the famous architect Kenzo Tange.
