Charming little gate at the entrance (Photo: Kasia Szumna)

Happoen Garden in Shirokanedai

Hidden gem in the modern Shirokanedai district

Kasia Szumna   - 1 min read

Happoen meaning a Garden off Eight Views, shows its beauty viewed from every angle. It is an enchanting place with some historical buildings, cafe and a restaurant. There is a green hill descending in the middle of the garden, ending right by a stunning pond. It is extremely well maintained and offers a perfect oasis of tranquility in the urban jungle of Tokyo.

In Happoen Garden you can find a collection of bonsai trees. Some of them are over 500 years old. Just walking through the garden is a meditative and relaxing experience. You can admire colourful koi fish in a pond or rest in one of unique bowers. However, if you want to learn more about Happoen history, you can book a tour with an English-speaking guide. In the program there is an introduction to the garden, tea ceremony in a traditional tea house located at the back of the pond and Japanese or Western style lunch. No matter which option you choose, you would be delighted to visit that incredible place.

For more information and booking check out their website.

Kasia Szumna

Kasia Szumna @katarzynakasia.szumna

Unique Japanese culture and its stunning art had always have a special place in Kasia's heart. She is a photographer and a writer and has experience managing her own website, creating content and social media promotion. She lived and worked in Poland, UK, Spain, Indonesia, Japan and Australia. F...