Kyū Furukawa Gardens is a beautiful park located in Nishigahara, Kita, Tokyo. The park is known for its stunning Japanese-style garden, Western-style mansion, and rose garden.
These features were built in the early 20th century and have been well-preserved, making it a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.
The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors can take a stroll through the Japanese garden, which features a pond, waterfall, and various types of plants and trees. The Western-style mansion is also worth a visit, as it provides a glimpse into the history and architecture of the early 20th century. Additionally, the rose garden is a must-see for anyone who loves flowers, as it is home to a variety of different types of roses.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or simply want to explore one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks, Kyū Furukawa Gardens is definitely worth a visit. With its stunning gardens, historic mansion, and beautiful roses, it is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves Japanese gardens.
History
Kyū-Furukawa Gardens has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The gardens were originally built as a private residence for the Furukawa family, one of the wealthiest families in Japan. The family made their fortune in the mining industry and were known for their lavish lifestyle.
The Western-style mansion and garden were designed by Josiah Conder, a British architect who was known for his work in Japan. The mansion was completed in 1917 and was used as a residence for the Furukawa family until the end of World War II.
After the war, the gardens were donated to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and were opened to the public in 1956. Since then, the gardens have become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Today, the gardens are home to a Western-style rose garden, a Japanese-style garden, and a tea house. The gardens have been designated as a famous site by the Japanese government and are considered to be one of the most beautiful gardens in Tokyo.
Layout
Kyū Furukawa Gardens is a beautiful park in Tokyo that features a unique blend of Japanese and Western aesthetics. The garden is designed using the slope of the Musashino Highland and the contiguous lower area, which creates a stunning natural landscape that is both relaxing and visually appealing.
The Western-style residence is located on a small hill, and the Western portion of the garden is located on the slope. On the lower level of the grounds, the Japanese garden was created, which features a Shinji-ike (心字池), a pond shaped like the Chinese character for ‘heart’ or ‘mind’.
The Western-style mansion and the rose garden are located in the upper part of the garden. The rose garden is a popular spot for visitors, especially during the spring when the English-style roses are in full bloom. The lower part of the garden is where the Japanese garden is located, which features a beautiful pond, a waterfall, and a stone lantern.
The garden is also known for its cherry blossom, azaleas, peonies, and maple leaves, which are in season during different times of the year. The park is open every day except for December 29 to January 1, and admission is 150 yen for adults and 70 yen for people over 65. Elementary school-age children and younger can enter for free.
Features
Here are some of the park’s notable features:
- Western-style mansion: The park includes a Western-style mansion that was built in the early 20th century. The mansion is situated on a small hill and features a beautiful rose garden that is a must-see attraction for visitors.
- Japanese-style garden: On the lower level of the park, visitors can explore a stunning Japanese-style garden that was designed to complement the Western-style mansion. The garden features a pond, a waterfall, and a teahouse where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
- English-style roses: The Kyū Furukawa Gardens are known for their stunning display of English-style roses. Visitors can enjoy the fragrant blooms in the rose garden, which is located near the Western-style mansion.
- Cherry blossom trees: In the spring, visitors can enjoy the park’s cherry blossom trees, which are a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. The park’s cherry blossom festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Tokyo in the spring.
Events and Activities
Kyū Furukawa also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights:
Cherry Blossom Festival
One of the most popular events at Kyū Furukawa Gardens is the Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in early April. Visitors can enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms in full bloom while participating in various activities, such as tea ceremonies, traditional Japanese music performances, and food stalls serving delicious Japanese cuisine.
Rose Festival
The Rose Festival is another popular event held at Kyū Furukawa Gardens, typically in mid-May. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the various types of roses, including rare and exotic varieties. There are also workshops and demonstrations on rose care and arrangement, as well as live music performances.
Tea Ceremony
For a more traditional experience, visitors can participate in a tea ceremony held at the Western-style mansion in the gardens. The ceremony is held several times a day, and visitors can enjoy a cup of matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets while learning about the history and significance of the tea ceremony.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the history and features of Kyū Furukawa Gardens. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the gardens’ design, architecture, and cultural significance. Private tours are also available for groups and special occasions.
Overall, Kyū Furukawa Gardens offers a variety of events and activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Kyū Furukawa Gardens has something for everyone.
Visitor Information
Kyū Furukawa Gardens is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. To make the most of your visit, here is some important information to keep in mind:
Hours and Admission
The gardens are open every day from 9am to 5pm, except from December 29 to January 1. Admission fees are 150 yen for adults and 70 yen for those over 65 years old. Children in elementary school and younger can enter for free.
Getting There
The gardens are located at 1-27-39 Nishigahara, Kita-ku, Tokyo 114-0024. The nearest train stations are Kami-Nakasato Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line and Nishigahara Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, both of which are a 7-minute walk away. Komagome Station on the JR Yamanote Line is also nearby, about a 15-minute walk from the gardens. Unfortunately, there is no parking available at the gardens, so it is recommended to take public transportation.
Facilities and Services
The gardens offer a variety of facilities and services to enhance your experience. These include:
- Restrooms
- Drinking fountains
- A souvenir shop
- Guided tours (available in Japanese only)
Tips for Visiting
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to Kyū Furukawa Gardens:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the gardens are spread over a large area with many hills and stairs.
- Visit during the cherry blossom season (usually late March to early April) to see the gardens in full bloom.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
- Respect the gardens and their rules, such as not picking flowers or littering.
Details
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Name (English) | Kyū Furukawa Gardens |
| Name (Japanese) | 旧古河庭園 |
| Address | 1 Chome-27-39 Nishigahara, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0024, Japan |
| Ticket Cost | 150 yen for adults; 70 yen for 65 and over; Free for children under 12 years old |
| Times | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM); Closed on Wednesdays and New Year holidays (Dec 29-Jan 1) |
| Website | English |
| Nearby Hotels | Luxury: |
| 1. The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo, Autograph Collection (4.8 km) | |
| 2. The Westin Tokyo (5.2 km) | |
| Mid-range: | |
| 1. Sotetsu Fresa Inn Nippori (2.0 km) | |
| 2. Hotel Graphy Nezu (2.9 km) book | |
| Budget: | |
| 1. Oak Hotel Ikebukuro (3.6 km) | |
| 2. Hotel Tetora Ikebukuro (3.8 km) |
