Rikugien Garden (六義園 – Tokyo, Japan)
Rikugien Garden (六義園) is one of Tokyo’s most exquisite and historic Edo-period stroll gardens, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Built in the late 17th century for a feudal lord, this garden is a masterful representation of classical Japanese landscape design, inspired by scenes from ancient poetry.
The name “Rikugien” means “Garden of the Six Poems,” and true to its name, the garden is full of poetic beauty — winding paths, gentle hills, man-made ponds, stone lanterns, and seasonal flora. As you walk the circular trail, new vistas appear at every turn, designed to mimic famous landscapes of Japan.
In spring, the star attraction is the massive weeping cherry tree (shidare-zakura), which becomes a cascade of pink blossoms. In autumn, the garden is equally breathtaking with vibrant maple foliage, and special evening light-up events enhance the magic.
At the center lies Togetsukyo Bridge, a tranquil spot overlooking the pond, and nearby is a traditional teahouse where you can enjoy matcha and seasonal sweets while soaking in the view.
Tip: Come on a weekday morning for a quieter experience. Entry is only ¥300, and the garden is just a few minutes’ walk from Komagome Station. Rikugien is perfect for those looking to slow down, reflect, and enjoy the elegance of traditional Japanese nature design — a hidden gem amid...
Read moreThis is a good place with awesome atmosphere. Beautiful and quite garden. You can enjoy nice views all season.
5tips for visitors
If you visit there in summer ,don’t forget to take a mosquito repellent spray. Actually there are a lot of mosquitoes everywhere during summer.
In spring you can see an amazing cherry blossom tree in full bloom near the entrance. It’s so big and called “Shidare Sakura”in Japan. So many people visit there to take pictures. During special weeks it is illuminated after sunset.
In autumn you can see beautiful autumn leaves here and there . The best time to see autumn leaves is from mid November to early December. At a perfect period to see them ,some trees are illuminated after sunset.
You can drink matcha at the small cafe “Fukiage-Chaya”in the middle of the garden. And during illuminated trees period ,closing time extends pm9:00. you can drink beer and taste some traditional snacks at the food stand.
Opening hours. am 9:00-pm5:00. (But you have to enter at least by pm4:30.!!)
I hope you will have a great...
Read moreRikugien is one of the "Kaiyuushiki-teien(回遊式庭園)". It is referred to in English as a "strolling garden" or "circuit garden." This type of garden is designed for visitors to walk through and enjoy various scenic views and elements as they stroll along winding paths. Strolling gardens typically feature ponds, bridges, rocks, and a variety of plants, allowing for a leisurely exploration of nature and landscape design.
You can enjoy the natural beauty of this urban oasis throughout the four seasons, but especially in the summer, I recommend the shaved ice at (休憩所兼売店), the rest area and shop. In spring and autumn, you should try the tea and wagashi plate at (吹上茶屋) the Fukiage Teahouse.
Wagashi is served on a plate along with a wide toothpick-like stick. You use this stick like a knife to cut the sweets into bite-sized pieces, and then you spear the pieces with the stick to bring them to your mouth. It's not something you should stuff into your mouth all...
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