Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Tokugawa Garden is a Japanese garden in Higashi Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, that has been restored and maintained as a feudal lord's garden. Originally based on the site of a mansion associated with the Owari Tokugawa family, it was developed as a strolling garden with a pond, and is characterized by the fact that you can enjoy the scenery throughout the seasons. With a large pond, artificial hills, waterfalls, stonework, and seasonal flowers and trees (plum, cherry blossom, azalea, iris, hydrangea, autumn leaves, etc.), you can enjoy the atmosphere of a tranquil Japanese garden in the middle of the city. Together with the adjacent Tokugawa Art Museum and Yoza Bunko Library, a major attraction is the opportunity to experience history, culture, and nature all at once.
Highlights
- A strolling pond landscape: From the walking path around the central pond, you can take your time to appreciate the arrangement of the waterfall, stonework, sandbar, and more.
- Seasonal flowers and trees: You can enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons, from cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, to irises and hydrangeas in early summer, and autumn leaves. The autumn leaves season is especially popular.
- Traditional architecture and tea house: You can spend a charming time in the rest areas and tea house located in the garden (open to the public and hosting tea ceremonies depending on the season).
- Collaboration between the garden and the art museum: By viewing it together with the Tokugawa Art Museum and the Yoza Bunko, you can gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural assets of the Owari Tokugawa family.
- Nighttime illumination (seasonal): The area is sometimes illuminated during periods such as autumn when the leaves change color, creating a fantastical atmosphere that is different from the daytime.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Ozone Station, served by JR, Meitetsu and subway lines, is about a 10-minute walk away (depending on the route).
- If using the subway: Take the Meijo Line towards Ozone and then walk or transfer.
- City bus: Nagoya City Bus has routes that have bus stops near Tokugawaen. Please check the routes and schedules in advance.
- By car: Paid parking may be available on-site or in the surrounding area, but due to limited space, we recommend using public transportation when it is busy.
- Address (reference): Tokugawacho, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture (please check the official website for details).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking around the gardens only: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour (approximately 1.5 hours if you take your time taking photos and sitting down to enjoy the view).
- If you want to enjoy both the garden and the Tokugawa Art Museum, you should plan on spending around 2-3 hours.
Nearby spots
- Tokugawa Art Museum: This art museum displays the collection of the Owari Tokugawa family. It is recommended to visit it together with the garden.
- Hosa Bunko: A facility that houses historical documents, where you can see exhibits and research results.
- Around Ozone Shopping Street: There are many restaurants and cafes scattered around, making it convenient for strolling and eating.
- Nagoya city center (Sakae/Nagoya Station): Accessible by public transportation in 20-30 minutes. Easy to incorporate into your sightseeing itinerary.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors increases during peak viewing seasons for cherry blossoms, azaleas, irises, and autumn leaves, as well as on holidays and weekends. Please be considerate when taking photos and be considerate of others passing by.
- Manners: The gardens are a place to be viewed quietly. Please refrain from talking loudly, running, touching or picking flowers and trees.
- Pets: There may be restrictions on pets allowed in the park (with exceptions for guide dogs, etc.), so please check in advance if you are bringing a pet.
- Eating, drinking, and smoking: Eating, drinking, and smoking are often prohibited outside of designated areas. Be sure to take your trash home with you.
- Weather and clothing: In rainy weather, some areas can become slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes. In winter, be sure to take precautions against the cold.
- Check the latest information: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, and illumination events may change depending on the season and year. Be sure to check the latest information on the official website or information guide before visiting.
(Note) For detailed information on opening hours, closing days, admission fees, barrier-free access, and event information, please check the Tokugawaen official website or Nagoya City tourist information.
