Oct 12, 2012 - 1 min read

Happo-En Garden, Shirokanedai

A blissful green oasis in the middle of Tokyo

By Peter Sidell

Community writer

The pond is inhabited by carp who gather expectantly when they see visitors at the water's edge

Cherry-blossoms cast cool shade on the tall stone pagoda

There are a handful of places to sit and rest around the pond

This large lantern stands sentinel at the entrance

For those few days in spring, the entrance is wreathed in cherry-blossom flowers

The path into the garden is also planted with cherry-blossom trees

Visitors to the garden admire bonsai trees older than themselves

The paths lead down to a serene pond

Said to be 800 years old, this lantern stands calmly in the grasses near the pond

A view down to the pond from the terrace above

Visitors enjoy the calming atmosphere as they stroll slowly around the garden

Ten minutes' walk from Meguro Station, Happo-En is one of Tokyo's most pleasant traditional gardens. The name means 'beautiful from any angle', which explains its appeal as a venue for weddings; come here at the weekend and you're likely to see happy couples being photographed with the garden as their backdrop. Designed around a central pond, the garden is home to venerable bonsai trees, an ancient stone lantern, and a teahouse where you can enjoy tea and snacks served by ladies in kimonos.

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Peter Sidell

By Peter Sidell

Community writer

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Wouter Thielen

Wouter Thielen 13 years ago

4 years in Tokyo, and I have never heard of this gem! Thanks for sharing it!

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