1. 浜離宮
    Photo: Kisa Toyoshima | Hama-rikyu Gardens
  2. 浜離宮
    Photo: Kisa Toyoshima

Hama-rikyu Gardens

  • Attractions | Parks and gardens
  • Shiodome
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Time Out says

Hama-rikyu stands out from other gardens in Tokyo in that it isn’t known for its weeping cherry blossom or maple foliage, but its bright pink plum trees that blossom in late winter. This tranquil garden, once a hunting ground for the Tokugawa shogunate, now cowers in the shadow of the Shiodome development.

The garden’s main appeal lies in the abundance of water and the fact that it feels deceptively spacious, thanks to beautiful landscaping. Situated on an island, it's surrounded by an ancient walled moat with two entrances. It’s also possible to reach Hama-rikyu by boat from Asakusa. The focal points are the huge pond, which contains two islands (one with a teahouse) connected to the shore by charming wooden bridges, and a photogenic 300-year-old pine tree.

Details

Address
1-1 Hamarikyu Teien, Chuo-ku
Tokyo
Transport:
Shiodome Station (Oedo line, Yurikamome), exit 10 or water bus
Price:
¥300 adults (¥150 for 65 and older), free for junior high school students living or studying in Tokyo, primary school students and younger children
Opening hours:
9am-5pm daily (last entry 4.30pm)

What’s on

Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony

Always wanted to learn more about the Japanese tea ceremony but never found a suitable opportunity? Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony is a large-scale tea ceremony where even those who aren’t familiar with the custom are welcome to participate. The event will be held at the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum on Saturday October 24 and Sunday October 25, and then a week later at the Hamarikyu Gardens on October 31 and November 1. Seven to eight tea ceremony sessions happen daily between 10.30am and 4.15pm, and sessions cost ¥800 per person (¥500 for children's sessions, accompanied by an adult on Oct 24 & 25). Check the schedule of each venue here: Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum and Hama-rikyu. Aside from the tea ceremonies, you’ll find plenty of other cultural programmes including live performances of daikagura (traditional Shinto acrobatic dance), kodan (narrative storytelling), ikebana (Flower arrangement), kabuki (on Oct 31 at Hama-rikyu) and more across both venues. Check the website to see what’s on at each venue. Entrance to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is free during the event.
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