Hama-rikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu Gardens is a historic Japanese garden located in Chuo City, Tokyo. Although it is set in the modern urban environment of central Tokyo, it is beloved by many for combining the traditions that have continued since the Edo period with the beauty of nature.

History and Origins
This area was originally used as a falconry ground for the shogun’s family, and until the Kanei era (1624–1644), it was entirely marshland filled with reeds. In 1654, Matsudaira Tsunashige, the younger brother of Tokugawa Ietsuna, the fourth shogun, obtained permission from the shogun to reclaim land from the sea and build a villa called “Kofu Hama-yashiki.”

Later, when Tsunashige’s son, Tokugawa Ienobu, became the sixth shogun, the residence became a villa for the shogun’s family and was renamed “Hama Goten.” Thereafter, successive shoguns expanded and renovated the garden, and it took on almost its present form during the reign of Tokugawa Iesada, the eleventh shogun.

After the Meiji Restoration, it was used as an imperial villa and renamed “Hamarikyu.” However, many valuable structures such as teahouses, as well as trees, were lost in the Great Kanto Earthquake and in air raids during World War II. On November 3, 1945, it was bestowed upon Tokyo Metropolitan Government, developed and opened to the public in April 1946. In 1948, it was designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty and Historic Site, and in March 1952, the garden and the surrounding water area were designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Special Historic Site, earning high recognition for its historical and cultural value.

Features and Highlights of the Garden
Tide-Influenced Pond
The “shioiri no ike” tide-influenced pond in the center of the garden draws in seawater from Tokyo Bay, and its water level and scenery change with the ebb and flow of the tide. While this style was once seen in other Edo-period gardens, Hamarikyu Gardens is now the only garden in Tokyo where seawater actually flows in and out. The pond is home to fish such as black sea bream, sea bass, and gobies, and visitors may also see seagulls and migratory birds.

Nakashima Teahouse and Otsutai Bridge
You can cross the Otsutai Bridge to reach Nakajima no Ochaya, a teahouse located in the middle of the pond. This teahouse was restored in 1983 based on historical materials after being lost in the Great Kanto Earthquake and other events. Here, you can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets while taking in views of the pond and surrounding nature. The scenery of the teahouse and bridge reflected on the water is especially charming.

Three-Hundred-Year-Old Pine
This giant pine tree is said to have been planted to commemorate the great renovation carried out by Tokugawa Ienobu, the sixth shogun. Its majestic form and thick, low-spreading branches make it one of the garden’s most iconic sights.

Matsu no Ochaya
The “Matsu no Ochaya” teahouse was built during the era of Tokugawa Iesada, the eleventh shogun. It was destroyed by fire during the war but was restored in 2010 based on historical records. Free special guided tours are usually offered on Thursday afternoons, where visitors can learn more about the building’s history and structure.

Nature Through the Seasons
Spring (plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, rape blossoms)
In spring, about 100 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and yaezakura varieties, color the garden. In particular, during the peak bloom period in April, opening hours are extended by one hour, and the garden becomes bustling with many hanami visitors. Also, from late March to early April, rape blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful pairing with the cherry blossoms in the flower field.

Early Summer (Japanese irises)
In early June, about 350 Japanese iris plants reach full bloom. Their blue, purple, and white flowers bring a refreshing touch of color to the early summer garden.

Summer (yellow cosmos)
Around August, yellow cosmos decorate the garden’s flower field. Their vivid yellow and orange blossoms stand out in the summer sunlight, captivating visitors.

Winter (migratory birds)
In winter, ducks and other migratory birds arrive at the tide-influenced pond, allowing visitors to feel a sense of life amid the stillness.