Hamarikyu Gardens is one of the most sophisticated and graceful gardens in Japan. Although it’s located in the center of Tokyo, rich nature spreads all over the garden. So you will forget that you are in the metropolitan city. Hamarikyu Gardens is very popular among foreign tourists partly because Tsukiji Fish Market is very close. Let’s enjoy the scenery and fresh food.

What is the Hamarikyu Gardens?

Hamarikyu Gardens was the family garden of Tokugawa Shogun which functioned as an outer fort for the Edo castle that retains a tidal pond of seawater drawn from the bay. After the Meiji Restoration, Hmarikyu Gardens became a Detached Palace of the Imperial Family. Furthermore, the garden is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Special Historical Site of the country.

Things to See at Hamarikyu Gardens

Here are several things to do and to see at Hamarikyu Gardens, let’s dive into it!!

The best photo spot at Hamarikyu Gardens

The best photo spot is located on the opposite side of the entrance. You will find a signboard with “Fujimiyama Hill” and steps to it.

Hamarikyu Gardens Tea House

There are 3 teahouses in the garden, and you can enter the one on the pond (Shioiri-no-ike) named “Nakajima-no-ochaya” where you can enjoy powdered green tea and Japanese sweets. At the same time, you can experience the typical Japanese culture of Tatami (straw mat).

Duck Hunting Sites

The strange site which looks like a house is built for Duck hunting. To lure the ducks into the trenches , bait such as barn grass and millet and decoy duck are used and watch their behavior from a small opening. Hunters measure the timing and catch them using hawks or a net from behind the mound.

300-Year Pine right in the Entrance of Hamarikyu Gardens

In front of the entrance/exit, the pine which was planted 300 years ago stands. The thick branches spread out low, still keeping a proud imposing view.

Waterbus Landing From Asakusa to Hamarikyu Gardens

This landing for the waterbus is from and to Asakusa, Odaiba, Odaiba Seaside Park, etc. Some people say the Hamarikyu Garden is a perfect route from Tsukiji Fish Market (next to the garden) to Asakusa (the most popular spot in Tokyo). But the others even don’t know there is water landing in the garden, and they ordinarily get the train to move. Take advantage of this information since you are luckily here!

Get the information of the 2 cruising companies:

How to get to Hamarikyu Gardens

Access :

Hama-risky Gardens, located in Tokyo’s Chuo City, is accessible via several public transportation options:

• By Train
  Toei Oedo Line: Alight at Shiodome Station (E-19) or Tsukiji-shijo Station (E-18); the gardens are a 7-minute walk from either station.
  -Yurikamome Line: Disembark at Shiodome Station; it’s a 7-minute walk to the gardens.
  – JR Lines and Subways: From Shimbashi Station (served by JR lines, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Toei Asakusa Line), it’s a 10-minute walk to the gardens.
•  By Water Bus
  – The gardens are a stop for the waterbus operated by Tokyo Cruise Ship Co., Ltd. The Sumida River Line runs from Asakusa to the gardens, offering a scenic 35-minute trip. The entrance fee to the gardens is included in the fare.

For detailed directions and additional information, please refer to the official Hama-risky Gardens access page.

Address :

1–1, Hama Rikyu-teien, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104–0046

Business Hours :

9:00–17:00 (every day except Dec 29th-Jan 1st)

Price

• General Admission (Ages 16-64): ¥300
• Seniors (Ages 65 and older): ¥150
• Children (Ages 12 and under): Free
• Junior High School Students residing or studying in Tokyo: Free

Official Website

Tourist Reviews of Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu Gardens enjoys an excellent reputation among visitors, reflected in its impressive ratings and glowing reviews across different platforms. On Tripadvisor, the gardens have earned an average rating of 4.5/5, based on over 1,956 reviews. Many travelers highlight its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for relaxation and sightseeing. Meanwhile, on JapanTravel, it is rated 3.8/5, appreciated for its traditional beauty but noted by some as less remarkable compared to other famous Japanese gardens.

Visitors often praise the gardens for their blend of historical charm and serene environment. One Tripadvisor user wrote :

“Pretty gardens! I love all the butterflies! Other than that, it’s a nice place to chill out and spend a couple hours. There is a small entrance fee.”

– from Tripadvisor

This highlights the peaceful appeal of the gardens and the joy of encountering wildlife amidst the greenery.

Another reviewer on JapanTravel shared their thoughts, stating :

“I’ve now visited Hamarikyu Gardens twice. It’s a great example of a traditional Japanese strolling garden and an awesome juxtaposition of ancient and modern.”

– from JapanTravel

This perspective emphasizes the unique experience of walking through the meticulously designed garden while observing the striking contrast between its timeless elegance and the modern urban skyline surrounding it.

These reviews collectively showcase Hamarikyu Gardens as a destination where visitors can unwind, appreciate traditional Japanese landscaping, and enjoy a harmonious blend of nature and culture.

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