Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden, also known as Kyu Shiba Rikyu Onshi Teien, is a classic Japanese garden next to Hamamatsucho Station, just five minutes south of Tokyo Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Originally built in the 17th century as the residence of a feudal lord, the garden was later converted into an imperial villa before being donated to the city of Tokyo in 1924. Today, the garden covers an area of approximately 43,000 square meters and features a central pond, teahouses, and plants and trees, including cherry blossoms and maple trees.
Key Takeaways
-
- The garden is one of the oldest and most well-preserved examples of a Japanese garden in Tokyo.
- Known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall.
- The central pond is home to fish, including koi and carp.
- Another Japanese garden, Hamarikyu is just a short walk away
- You can join a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in one of the garden’s teahouses.
- The garden features walking paths and bridges that offer stunning views of the garden.
- There is a small admission fee to enter the garden, but it is well worth the price for the experience.
- Open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season.
- Great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful afternoon in nature.
History
The Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is one of Tokyo’s oldest surviving gardens, with a rich history dating back to the Edo period. The garden was originally a part of Tokyo Bay, but the land was reclaimed between 1655 and 1658. In 1678, the garden was created as the official samurai-style residence of Ōkubo Tadamoto, a member of the Ōkubo clan and an official of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Originally called “Rakujuen,” the garden was designed by landscapers from Ōkubo’s home fiefdom of Odawara (present-day Kanagawa Prefecture). The garden was later renamed “Kyu Shiba Rikyu” when it was bought by the Imperial family in 1875 and opened to the public in 1924.
During World War II, the garden was destroyed by bombing but was restored to its former glory in the post-war years. Today, it is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can explore the garden’s many features, including a central pond, a teahouse, and trees and flowers. The garden is also home to several species of birds and fish, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Features
One of the most striking features of the garden is the pond, which is surrounded by man-made hills that symbolize the ocean, lakes, and mountains of the real world. The circular walking trails around the pond allow visitors to enjoy the garden from various perspectives.
Another feature of the garden is the teahouse, where you can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. It is recommended to check the schedule in advance to make a reservation.
For those interested in history, the garden has a rich past dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can explore the garden’s history through the various structures, including the former residence of a feudal lord and a traditional Japanese garden.
Layout
Kyu-Shiba-rikyu Gardens is a classic Japanese strolling garden, featuring a large central pond named Sensui. The garden’s focus is on the pond and its two small islands, Nakajima and Ukishima. The main island, Nakajima, is accessible by a bridge, while the smaller island, Ukishima, is isolated.
The garden’s features, include:
- The pond and islands
- Many trees, including cherry and maple trees
- You can visit the tea house for some traditional Japanese tea and sweets
- The garden’s stone and land formations, which are typical of Japanese strolling gardens
.The garden is open from 9:00 to 17:00, with the last entrance at 16:30. It is closed from December 29 to January 1. Admission costs 150 yen.
Visitor Information
Visitors can explore the garden’s beautiful landscapes and traditional Japanese architecture, including a pond with stepping stones, a teahouse, and various bridges. The garden is also known for its seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms in the spring and apricots in the winter.
It is recommended to check the garden’s hours and admission fees before planning your visit. The garden is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:30 PM. It is closed from December 29 to January 1. Admission is 150 yen.
Information Category | Details |
---|---|
Name | Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden (旧芝離宮恩賜庭園) |
Address | 1-4-1 Kaigan, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0022, Japan |
Ticket Cost | Adults: 150 JPY, Seniors (65+): 70 JPY, Children (under 12): Free |
Opening Times | 9:00 – 17:00 (last entry at 16:30); Closed on December 29 – January 1 |
Website | na |
Nearby Hotels | |
Posh | Conrad Tokyo – 1.3 km, Booking.com |
InterContinental Tokyo Bay – 1.4 km, Booking.com | |
Mid-range | Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai – 0.9 km, Booking.com |
Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Shiodome – 1 km, Booking.com | |
Budget | Sotetsu Fresa Inn Hamamatsucho Daimon – 0.6 km, Booking.com |
APA Hotel Shimbashi Onarimon – 1.1 km, Booking.com |
The Sum Up
With its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The garden, which has been open to the public since 1924 is definitely worth a visit if you’re in Tokyo. So, make sure to add it to your itinerary and experience the beauty of this historic garden for yourself.