Hamarikyu Gardens 🌳🌸 | Walking Tour of Tokyo in a Day

Audio Guide Tokyo | Walking Tour of Tokyo in a Day

Hamarikyu Gardens 🌳🌸

Looking for a peaceful escape amidst Tokyo’s vibrant urban landscape? Hamarikyu Gardens offers a beautiful blend of Edo-period history and serene natural beauty, right in the heart of the city. As you stroll through this traditional Japanese garden, you’ll feel transported back in time, with striking contrasts between the lush greenery and the towering skyscrapers surrounding it. Get ready for a journey through nature, history, and tranquility!

1. Google Maps Link

Find your way easily: Hamarikyu Gardens on Google Maps

2. Next Subway Station Nearby 🚇

• Shiodome Station (Oedo Line, Yurikamome Line) – The closest station, just a 7-minute walk to the garden’s entrance.
• Tsukiji Shijo Station (Oedo Line) – A 10-minute walk through the lively area of Tsukiji, perfect if you’re combining your visit with a stop at the fish market.
• Shimbashi Station (JR Line, Ginza Line, Asakusa Line) – About a 15-minute walk, but it's a pleasant stroll if you’re coming from a more central part of Tokyo.

3. Good Places to Eat Nearby 🍣🍵🍰

After a peaceful stroll through the gardens, why not grab a bite or a drink nearby? Here are some top spots:

• Nakajima-no-Ochaya Tea House (Inside Hamarikyu Gardens) – Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony right in the garden! Enjoy matcha and wagashi (Japanese sweets) while admiring the scenic pond. 🍵🍡
• Tsukiji Outer Market – Just a short walk away, this bustling market has endless options for fresh sushi, seafood bowls, and street food. Perfect for lunch after your garden visit! 🐟🍣
• Park Hotel Tokyo (Tateru Yoshino Bis) – For a more upscale dining experience, head to this elegant French restaurant with amazing city views. 🍽️

4. Best Photo Spots 📸

• Shioiri-no-ike Pond – The heart of the garden, this tidal pond changes with the ebb and flow of seawater. The view of the pond with the city skyscrapers in the background creates a striking contrast between old and new Tokyo. 🌊🏙️
• Nakajima-no-Ochaya Tea House – This picturesque tea house located on an island in the pond is perfect for capturing traditional Japanese architecture surrounded by nature. 📷🍂
• Peony Garden – If you’re visiting during peony season (late April to early May), the garden blooms with vibrant colors, offering a stunning backdrop for photos. 🌸
• The Stone Bridges – These charming bridges criss-crossing the garden’s waterways make for perfect photo spots. Be sure to capture the reflection of the surrounding trees in the water. 🌳🌉

5. Opening Times of the Sight ⏰

• Hamarikyu Gardens:
  Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
  Pro Tip: The gardens are especially beautiful in the early morning when the light is softer and there are fewer visitors. 🌅

6. Additional Insider Tips 🧐

• Boat Ride: Consider taking the Water Bus from Asakusa to Hamarikyu Gardens! It’s a scenic way to arrive, with views of the Sumida River and Tokyo’s skyline along the way. The boat ride lets you enter the garden directly from the pier. 🛥️
• Seasonal Beauty: Hamarikyu is stunning year-round, but it’s especially magical during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange (November). Don’t forget your camera! 🍁🌸
• Audio Guide: There’s an official English audio guide available at the entrance, which provides fascinating insights into the history and design of the garden. 🎧

7. Hidden Gem 💎

• 300-Year-Old Pine Tree – One of the garden’s most unique features is a stunning pine tree that has been standing for over 300 years! Its sprawling branches are supported by wooden posts, giving it a majestic and ancient presence. This is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s a must-see! 🌲

8. Public Bathrooms Nearby 🚻

• Inside Hamarikyu Gardens – There are several clean and well-maintained public restrooms within the garden itself, typically located near the entrance and the tea house.
• Shiodome Station – If you're coming from or heading to Shiodome Station, the station has convenient public bathrooms that are easy to access. 🚻

Hamarikyu Gardens is the perfect blend of historical charm and natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat in the middle of Tokyo’s bustling city life. Whether you’re here for a relaxing walk, a tea ceremony, or just to capture stunning photos, Hamarikyu has something for everyone. Enjoy your serene escape in Tokyo! 🌿🌸🌞