Japan: Tokyo (Hamarikyu Gardens) (*)

The Hamarikyu Gardens is a large, traditionally styled garden at the mouth of the Sumida River which stands in stark contrast to the skyscrapers of the adjacent Shiodome District. Opened to the public on April 1, 1946, the garden has had several functions over the centuries. It was originally built as a feudal lord’s Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo Period (1603-1867), but later served as a strolling garden and as an imperial detached palace before eventually being opened to the public in its current form. Remnants from the past are still visible throughout the garden including several reconstructed duck hunting blinds, and the remains of an old moat and reconstructed rock wall.

Bird’s eye view of Hamarikyu Gardens

Tokyo Tower, visible from the Hamarikyu Gardens

The seawater pond

The garden is divided into two major sections. The southern garden was where the residence of the feudal lord was once located. The northern garden was added later on. The park features a seawater pond (Shioiri Pond) which changes levels with the tides. Actually, Hamarikyu itself is surrounded by a seawater moat which is filled by the Tokyo Bay.

Hamarikyu Gardens layout

Statue of a diety

There is a teahouse (Nakajima no ochaya) on an island where visitors can rest, enjoy the scenery and partake in the various refreshments available, including matcha (Japanese green tea) and Japanese sweets served in a tea ceremony style.

Teahouse

Rainbow Bridge in Odiaba visible from Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu is attractive in any season. Late February brings plum (ume) blossoms, while the spring cherry blossom season lasts from late March to early April. Several other species of flowers bloom in spring including fields of peony, cosmos and canola blossoms. Japanese falconry and aikido are demonstrated during the New Year. The garden is not as famous for its fall foliage as some of the other gardens around Tokyo but it does offer plenty of maple, ginkgo and other trees that display their beautiful autumn colors between late November and early December.

Hamarikyu Gardens – Summer

Hamarikyu Gardens – Fall

Hamarikyu Gardens – Spring