Sankeien Garden (Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Sankeien is a Japanese garden developed in the early 20th century by businessman Hara Sankei. The spacious strolling garden with a pond is dotted with historical buildings that have been relocated and preserved from all over Japan, and its greatest feature is the opportunity to see ancient architecture up close, such as the Edo to Meiji period Shoin-style architecture and three-story pagoda. The garden is popular with tourists from both Yokohama and further afield, thanks to its seasonal flowering trees, garden scenery, relaxing teahouses, and photogenic scenery. The garden offers plenty of opportunities for nature observation, historical walks, and seasonal events (cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, irises, lotus flowers, etc.).

Highlights

• Strolling garden with a pond: You can enjoy the scenery from various angles from the walking paths centered around the large pond.
• Numerous ancient buildings: Historic buildings relocated from all over the country are scattered around the area, and you can see their architectural styles and interior designs.
• Seasonal flowers and trees: Each season has a different look, with cherry blossoms in spring, irises and hydrangeas in early summer, lotus flowers in summer, and autumn leaves in autumn.
• Teahouse and rest area: There are teahouses and rest areas within the garden, where you can take a break while enjoying the atmosphere of the Japanese garden.
• Photo spot: The combination of old architecture and nature is popular among photography enthusiasts. It is especially picturesque in the morning and evening light, or on foggy days.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + walking/bus:
  • One of the nearest stations: JR Negishi Line "Negishi Station" is a 15-25 minute walk or a few minutes by bus (get off at the "Sankeien" stop)
  • It is also accessible by bus or taxi from Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line and JR Yokohama Station. Direct buses and local buses may also operate from the stations.
• By car: Accessible via the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route or Yokohama-Yokosuka Road. There are parking lots around the park, but they may be full during peak hours.
• Taxi: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from Yokohama Station or Motomachi-Chukagai Station (varies depending on traffic conditions)

*Operation schedules and routes may change depending on the season and day of the week, so please be sure to check the latest timetable and route information before departing.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short Trip: 1-1.5 hours (quickly see the main sights)
• A leisurely stroll: 2-3 hours (including viewing the interior of the building, taking a break in the teahouse, and taking photos)
• If you are attending an event, exhibition, or tea ceremony, it is best to plan for at least three hours.

Nearby spots

• Yokohama Motomachi Chinatown area: Full of dining, shopping and tourist facilities (Yokohama Chinatown, Motomachi Shopping Street, etc.).
• Western-style buildings in the Yamate district (Yamate Western-style buildings): Exotic tourist spots are within walking or bus distance.
• Negishi Forest Park: A park perfect for strolling, picnics, and nature observation.
• Honmoku area (Honmoku Summit Park, etc.): There are places where you can enjoy views of Yokohama Port and the cityscape.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion:
  • The peak seasons for cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, irises, and lotus flowers can be very busy, so it's best to use public transportation or aim for early morning or evening hours to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
• Manners:
  • The park is a place to protect cultural assets and landscapes. Please follow the no-entry areas and signs, and do not touch the plants or buildings.
  • Please dispose of your trash in the designated area. In most cases, you will be encouraged to take your trash with you.
  • Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but there may be restrictions on the use of tripods and commercial photography. The use of drones is prohibited in principle.
• Pets: There may be restrictions regarding pets. Please check the rules of the school beforehand.
• Footing and clothing: The park has cobblestone streets, stairs, and unpaved paths, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. In rainy weather, some areas can be slippery.
• Check business information: Opening hours, admission fees, temporary closures, and event information change depending on the season and special events, so please check the official website or call ahead to confirm the latest information.

Note: Sankeien Garden is a place where you can both preserve and appreciate gardens and cultural assets. To enjoy the seasonal scenery, it's a good idea to check information on the best times to see the flowers (cherry blossoms, irises, lotus flowers, autumn leaves, etc.) and event information before your visit to make your stay even more fulfilling.