Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Rikugien Garden, located in Honkomagome, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, is a representative feudal lord's garden. It is a strolling garden with a pond and artificial hills, built in the Edo period (1695) by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, a chamberlain to the fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. The garden's name, "Rikugi," comes from the six forms of Chinese and Japanese poetry (= "Six Meanings of Poetry"), and is intended to create a landscape rich in poetic sentiment. Highlights include the walking path around the large central pond, artificial hills, stepping stones, a teahouse, and plantings that change appearance with the seasons (the weeping cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are particularly famous). After the Meiji period, it was donated to Tokyo City (now the capital), and has been designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Historic Site by the national government.
Highlights
- Scenery of the strolling garden with a pond: You can enjoy the quaint scenery in 360 degrees from the walking paths that surround the large central pond.
- Weeping cherry blossoms: Weeping cherry blossoms that bloom in spring are popular and attract many visitors during the flowering season.
- Autumn leaves: In autumn, the maples in the park change color, and the autumn leaves reflected in the pond create a spectacular sight. The illuminations (open at night and illuminated) are especially popular.
- Teahouses and rest areas: There are quaint teahouses and rest areas within the park where you can take a break while looking out at the gardens.
- Historical buildings and vegetation: The garden is home to remains related to Yoshiyasu, ancient trees, and seasonal flowers, making it a valuable place to learn about the history of gardens.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Approximately 6 minutes on foot from Komagome Station on the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro Namboku Line (travel time may vary depending on the exit)
- Other: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Sengoku Station on the Toei Mita Line, or you can take the bus.
- Visiting by car: There are coin-operated parking lots in the area, but the number of spaces is limited and they can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30-45 minutes (to quickly visit the main points)
- Relaxed viewing and photography: 1-2 hours (including a break at the teahouse and photography)
- When the area is lit up: Please note that there may be crowds and entry restrictions at night, so please allow for waiting times to enter.
Nearby spots
- Former Furukawa Gardens (Kita Ward, within walking distance) - A garden that blends Western-style architecture with Japanese gardens, famous for its rose garden.
- Komagome area around Rikugien Garden—home to old townscapes and local restaurants.
- Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street (a few train stops away) — A great place for food and shopping, nicknamed "Grandma's Harajuku."
- Ueno, Nezu, Yanaka area (easy access) - A great place to stroll around, with museums, shrines, and traditional cafes.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park is extremely crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves season in autumn, as well as during the illumination period. It is especially crowded on weekends and holidays, and there may be restrictions on entry and waiting times.
- Manners: The park is a place for preserving cultural assets and plantings. Please observe basic manners such as not entering restricted areas, taking your trash home (or to designated areas), avoiding loud conversations and reserving spots.
- Photography: Photography with smartphones and cameras is permitted, but tripods and large equipment may be restricted during busy times. Commercial photography requires prior permission.
- Pets: As a general rule, pets are often restricted from entering the park (with the exception of service dogs). Please check in advance if you plan to bring pets with you.
- Opening hours and admission fees: Opening hours, admission fees, and special night opening hours vary depending on the season and the year. Be sure to check the official website or other public information for the latest information (including closing days).
- Weather: In rainy weather, some areas may become slippery. We recommend wearing rain gear and comfortable walking shoes.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the official Rikugien website or the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Parks Division beforehand for information on admission fees, opening hours, special exhibitions, event information, etc.
