Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Shirotori Garden is an urban Japanese garden located in Minato Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. It incorporates the techniques of a strolling pond garden (a garden with a central pond) and has been developed to allow visitors to enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons. The garden features a large pond, stone bridges, waterfalls, artificial hills, a teahouse, and rest facilities, and is characterized by its harmony of the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese garden with modern landscaping techniques. As a spot where you can experience a sense of calm and nature in the city, it is popular for strolling, photography, and viewing the seasonal flowers and trees.
Highlights
- A strolling pond landscape: While walking along the promenade designed around the central pond, you can enjoy the bridges, waterfalls, stonework, and other features from various angles.
- Teahouses and rest areas: There are teahouses and rest areas where you can take a break and enjoy the garden scenery, allowing you to spend a relaxing time (tea ceremonies and experience events are sometimes held).
- Flowers and plants of the four seasons: Cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, hydrangeas in early summer, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and the tranquil branches in winter - the changing of the seasons is beautiful.
- Photo spots: There are plenty of subjects that exude a Japanese atmosphere, such as the scenery across the pond, stone bridges, and moss-covered stonework.
- Light-up events (seasonal): There are night-time events such as autumn foliage illuminations and spring events, which offer a different feel than during the day (please check the dates).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: There are routes that use city buses or Nagoya Municipal Buses from the nearest subway or private railway. From central Nagoya, it is common to access by subway and bus (detailed routes and times vary depending on the departure point, so please check the timetable and transfer information in advance).
- By car: Approximately 20-30 minutes by car from central Nagoya (depending on traffic conditions). Parking may be available within the park or nearby, but due to limited space, it can get crowded on weekends and during events.
- Taxi: It is convenient to take a direct taxi from Nagoya Station, Kanayama Station, etc. The travel time will vary depending on traffic conditions, but you should expect it to take approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
- Bicycles and walking: If you have accommodation nearby, you can also access the park by bicycle. There are walking paths within the park.
(Note) Please check the official website or map app in advance for the latest information on public transportation transfers and times, availability and fees of parking, and the location of the park entrance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30-45 minutes (to quickly tour the main attractions)
- Leisurely stroll and photography: 1 to 1.5 hours
- If you include use of the tea room and participation in events: 1.5 to 2 hours or more
Nearby spots
- Nagoya Port area: Nearby tourist facilities in the port area, such as Nagoya Port Aquarium and Nagoya Port Garden Pier (accessible by car or public transport from the aquarium).
- Legoland Japan (accessible by car or public transport): A popular theme park for families. Consider combining your visit with the park.
- Parks and walking paths around Minato Ward: There are walking paths and parks facing the sea and harbor in the surrounding area, so you can enjoy walking outside along with the gardens.
- Nagoya city center (Sakae/Nagoya Station area): Easily accessible from major stations and downtown areas, it is a convenient base for sightseeing and dining.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park tends to get crowded on weekends, holidays, cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, and during events such as illuminations. If you want to enjoy the scenery in peace and quiet, we recommend visiting on weekdays or in the morning.
- Admission fees and opening hours: Admission fees (if paid), opening and closing times, and closed days may change. Please be sure to check the official website for the latest information.
- Clothing and shoes: The park has unpaved areas, stone steps, and slippery areas when wet, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please be careful of your footing in rainy weather.
- Pets and companions: Rules regarding whether pets are allowed and whether they must be kept on a leash vary by facility. Please check the rules beforehand if you plan to bring your pet.
- Photography etiquette: In principle, photography is permitted, but please be mindful not to disturb other visitors or tea room users. Commercial use may require separate permission.
- Nature Conservation and Manners: Please do not touch the plants, moss, or rockwork, and do not pick flowers. Please also observe basic manners such as always taking your trash with you and sticking to non-smoking areas.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, you need to take measures against the heat (drinks, hats) and insects such as mosquitoes. In winter, take measures against the cold and be aware that the trail can become slippery due to freezing.
Finally, please be sure to check the Shiratori Gardens' official website or the Nagoya City information page for the latest opening hours, admission fees, events, access details, and more. Enjoy a safe and comfortable stroll through the gardens.
