Serene paths and a gentle hill for the perfect midday stroll
The Rikugien Gardens are located in a residential part of Bunkyo City, in the north of Tokyo. Nearby attractions include Ueno Park, Nezu-jinja Shrine, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens, and the University of Tokyo's Koishikawa Botanical Garden. If visiting in autumn or spring, consider spending an entire day exploring these seasonally gorgeous attractions.
Tips
- The vantage from the hill, which overlooks the entire gardens
- Evening visits in autumn and spring when the trees are illuminated (Note: Illuminations may be suspended depending on the conditions.)
A selection of maple and zelkova trees offer stunning views in autumn, while the cherry trees provide an equally impressive view in the spring. If you're fortunate to be in Japan during these seasons, note that the gardens offer extended night hours, with the trees and flowers magnificently illuminated.
Yoshiyasu Yanagisawa, a close confidant of Japan's fifth shogun Tsunayoshi Tokugawa, created the gardens at the shogun's request. With the name translating to "Garden of Six Poems," Yanagisawa designed the grounds to depict 88 scenes represented in a selection of six classical Chinese poems. You'll find these spots designated by stone markers, though only 32 presently remain.
The Rikugien Gardens are located in a residential part of Bunkyo City, in the north of Tokyo. Nearby attractions include Ueno Park, Nezu-jinja Shrine, and the University of Tokyo's Koishikawa Botanical Garden. If visiting in autumn or spring, consider spending an entire day exploring these seasonally gorgeous attractions.
