TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Genkyuen is a Japanese garden located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, and is known for its tranquil scenery that harmonizes with the castle town and Hikone Castle. It retains the appearance of a strolling garden developed by the lord of Hikone during the Edo period, and features artificial hills, bridges, and teahouse-style buildings arranged around a pond, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery throughout the seasons. Hikone Castle can be seen from within the garden, allowing visitors to experience the feeling that the castle and garden are one. It is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, making it a popular spot for photography and strolling.
Highlights
- A strolling landscape with a pond: A strolling landscape created by the central pond, the small island floating in it, and the surrounding hills and stonework.
- View of Hikone Castle: A viewing spot where you can see the castle tower of Hikone Castle from part of the garden. You can take photos that harmonize the castle and garden.
- Seasonal plantings: The scenery changes throughout the year with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, autumn leaves, and the tranquil scenery of winter.
- Teahouse and rest area: There is a place where you can take a break and enjoy the Japanese atmosphere in the garden (please check the opening hours).
- Quiet walking paths: Although it is a tourist spot, there are small paths that are perfect for walking peacefully, allowing you to leisurely explore the garden.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Biwako Line (Tokaido Main Line) "Hikone Station"
- Walking: Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from Hikone Station (follow the route through the castle town streets, signs are available).
- Bus: Take the Omi Bus or city loop bus from Hikone Station bound for Hikone Castle and Genkyuen Gardens, and get off at the stop.
- Taxi: Approximately 5 minutes by taxi from Hikone Station (depending on traffic conditions).
- Car/Parking: There are paid parking lots for Hikone Castle and municipal parking lots nearby. However, they may fill up during peak seasons, so it is recommended to arrive early.
- Note: Specific bus routes, parking fees and parking spaces, opening times, etc. may change, so please check official information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30-45 minutes (enough to walk around the garden and take photos).
- Leisurely viewing: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (if taking breaks, using the teahouse, and visiting nearby small spots).
- Sightseeing in combination with Hikone Castle: Plan on spending a total of 2-3 hours to have plenty of time to see everything.
Nearby spots
- Hikone Castle: A castle with a national treasure keep adjacent to Genkyuen Garden. The exhibits inside the keep and castle grounds are also worth seeing.
- Hikone Castle Museum (Hikone Castle Museum): A facility where you can learn about the history and culture of the castle and castle town.
- Yumekyobashi Castle Road: A castle town-style shopping street with a strolling area lined with souvenir shops and restaurants.
- Rakurakuen: A group of gardens and mansions near Genkyuen, which can often be visited together.
- Hikone's gourmet food: There are plenty of restaurants offering Omi beef and local Japanese sweets, so you can enjoy a meal while strolling around the castle town.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during the cherry blossom season (early April) and autumn foliage season (mid- to late November). If you go early in the morning or on a weekday, it will be less crowded.
- Footing: The garden has stone pavements, steps, and muddy areas, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
- Pets: Some parks may have restrictions on bringing pets, so please check in advance.
- Photography etiquette: Photography is permitted, but please be considerate to other tourists (such as limiting the use of tripods and occupying the space for long periods of time).
- Eating, Drinking, and Smoking: Outdoor eating and drinking may be restricted depending on the location. Please use designated rest areas or teahouses. Please follow the rules for smoking within the venue.
- Check business hours: Opening hours, admission fees, and whether or not there are any special exhibitions may change depending on the season or year, so be sure to check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
