TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Happo-en Garden is a Japanese garden complex located in Shirokanedai, Minato Ward, Tokyo, centered around a wedding venue and banquet facilities. The name "Happo" means "scenery that is pleasing to all directions," and it is characterized by a strolling pond garden, a quaint stone bridge, a teahouse, ancient trees, and seasonal flowers in harmony. Historically, it was developed in the modern era, and since the Showa era, it has become famous as a wedding venue and restaurant. It is a place where you can quietly enjoy a Japanese atmosphere in the city, and the garden scenery is photogenic, making it popular for weddings, tea ceremonies, and seasonal events (such as illuminated flowers and autumn leaves).
Highlights
- Strolling Japanese garden: Stone bridges, waterfalls, and stones are arranged around a pond, allowing you to enjoy the entire garden while strolling.
- Flowers and trees of the four seasons: The scenery changes with the seasons, with cherry blossoms and plum blossoms in spring, camellias in winter and early spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves.
- Tea room and tea ceremony experience: Tea ceremonies are sometimes held as a venue for the tea ceremony, and you may be able to experience a tea ceremony by making a reservation in advance.
- Weddings and garden weddings: With plenty of wedding ceremonies and photo spots set against the backdrop of a Japanese garden, the hotel is popular for weddings.
- Restaurants: There are restaurants and traditional Japanese restaurants within the facility where you can enjoy Japanese cuisine and kaiseki meals, and you can dine while looking out at the garden (reservations required).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Shirokanedai Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, Toei Mita Line) is about a 5-10 minute walk away, and Shirokane-takanawa Station (Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway) is about a 10-15 minute walk away.
- It is easily accessible by taxi from Meguro Station or Shinagawa Station, or by taking the JR and subway from Shinagawa or Tokyo to Shirokanedai or Shirokane Takanawa.
- You can come by car, but there is a limit to the number of parking spaces, so we recommend you inquire and make a reservation in advance (especially if you are planning to use the facility for a banquet).
- By bus: It may be possible to walk from a nearby bus stop, but please check the route and timetable in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking around the gardens only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (approximately 1 hour if you want to take your time taking photos and enjoying the scenery).
- Tea ceremony, garden tour, and leisurely meal: 1.5 to 3 hours.
- If attending a wedding or banquet: A few hours to half a day depending on the content of the ceremony and dinner.
Nearby spots
- Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum (Meguro/Shirokane area) — This art museum features an Art Deco-style building and gardens (just a short walk or bus ride away).
- Nature Study Park (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) - A natural green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll (within walking distance).
- Cafe Platinum Street around Shirokanedai — Dotted with stylish cafes and shops, it's convenient for strolling and dining.
- Meguro/Ebisu area — This area is rich in art museums and restaurants, making it easy to visit both areas.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Weddings and banquets are often held here, so parts of the garden may be reserved for private use and photography may be restricted. Please check the official website or facility details before visiting.
- Photography is generally permitted, but please refrain from using flash or large equipment that may disturb other guests or those taking part in the ceremony, and please observe etiquette by obtaining permission from the subject.
- It can get very crowded depending on the season (cherry blossom and autumn foliage season, weekends, and peak wedding season). If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on a weekday morning.
- There are unpaved areas and small paths within the garden, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please be careful of your footing in rainy weather.
- There may be restrictions on the entry of pets and the use of drones. Rules vary by facility, so please check in advance.
- Admission fees, opening hours, and use of the teahouse and restaurant may change, so please check the official website or call for the latest information.
*For detailed opening hours, admission fees, event information, and how to make reservations for restaurants and tea ceremonies, please check the latest information on Happo-en's official website or at the facility counter.
