Sankeien Garden is one of those places in Yokohama where you can truly unwind and forget about the city’s rush. It’s got everything—a touch of history, peaceful ponds, and paths that seem to pull you into another time. I always find myself drawn here, especially during cherry blossom season when the garden transforms into a picture-perfect escape.
Location and Access
- Address: 58-1 Honmoku Sannotani, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0824, Japan
- Nearest Station: Negishi Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku Line)
- Directions: From Negishi Station, take the Yokohama Municipal Bus No. 58, 99, or 101 and get off at the Honmoku Sankeien-mae bus stop. The garden is a short 5-minute walk from there.
Description
Sankeien Garden is a sprawling landscape garden that covers 175,000 square meters and was opened to the public in 1906 by Sankei Hara, a successful silk trader. The garden is meticulously designed to reflect the natural beauty of each season, with a layout that invites visitors to explore its many hidden treasures.
The garden is divided into two main areas: the Outer Garden and the Inner Garden.
- Outer Garden: This area is open to the public and is where you’ll find several of Sankeien’s most iconic structures. The central feature is the Choshukaku Pavilion, a striking three-story pagoda originally from Kyoto’s Tomyoji Temple, which provides a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery. Nearby, the Kakushokaku, a former residence of the garden’s founder, now serves as a venue for exhibitions and events. The Outer Garden also features serene ponds, including the Central Pond, which is adorned with stone bridges and surrounded by lush foliage.
- Inner Garden: Accessible only during special events or guided tours, the Inner Garden offers a more intimate experience with additional historic buildings such as the Shunsoro Tea House, which is a wonderful example of traditional Japanese architecture. This area of the garden is more secluded and offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for quiet contemplation.
Throughout the garden, you’ll find winding paths, carefully manicured lawns, and seasonal flowers. The garden’s layout encourages a leisurely stroll, with each turn revealing a new scenic view or historic structure.
Activities and Highlights
There’s plenty to see and do at Sankeien Garden, making it an ideal destination for a half-day visit:
- Exploring Historic Buildings: Sankeien is home to 17 historic buildings that were relocated from various parts of Japan. These include traditional tea houses, samurai residences, and temples. Each building offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich architectural heritage.
- Seasonal Beauty: The garden is a year-round destination, with different features coming to life with each season. In spring, cherry blossoms create a soft pink canopy, while in summer, the lush greenery and lotus flowers are a highlight. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, and in winter, the garden takes on a serene, almost mystical atmosphere.
- Cultural Experiences: Sankeien hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including traditional tea ceremonies, ikebana (flower arranging) exhibitions, and seasonal festivals. These events provide visitors with a deeper connection to Japanese culture.
- Walking Courses: There are several walking courses available, each tailored to different interests. Whether you’re interested in the garden’s history, its seasonal beauty, or its architecture, there’s a course that will guide you through the garden’s highlights.
Food Options
After exploring the garden, you can enjoy a meal or a snack at the on-site dining options:
- Sankeien Saryo: Located near the garden’s entrance, this café offers light meals, snacks, and traditional Japanese sweets. The menu includes items like udon noodles, seasonal rice dishes, and matcha with wagashi (Japanese sweets). The café’s outdoor seating area overlooks the garden, providing a serene setting for a meal.
- Tea House: For a more traditional experience, visit one of the garden’s tea houses where you can enjoy matcha tea and sweets in a classic Japanese setting. These tea houses often host tea ceremonies, especially during special events, offering a unique cultural experience.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), year-round.
- Entry Fees: 700 yen for adults, 200 yen for children (elementary school age).
- Facilities: The garden includes restrooms, a souvenir shop, and vending machines. The Souvenir Shop offers a variety of unique items, including local crafts, garden-related merchandise, and traditional Japanese souvenirs.
- Accessibility: The garden has paved paths and ramps in some areas, but some parts may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues due to steps and uneven terrain.
Tips for Visitors
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy a quieter, more serene experience.
- Plan your visit around seasonal events such as the autumn foliage festival and the cherry blossom viewing for a unique cultural experience.
- Nearby attractions include Yokohama Chinatown and Minato Mirai, making Sankeien a great addition to a day of exploring Yokohama.
- Enjoy feeding the adorable turtles and ducks in the pond! Feed can be conveniently purchased right within the garden.
Personal Recommendations
One of my favorite experiences at Sankeien Garden is enjoying a cup of matcha in the tea house while gazing out at the garden’s serene scenery. If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, plan your visit for late March or early April to see the garden in full bloom. For a unique experience, consider joining one of the traditional tea ceremonies held in the garden; it’s a wonderful way to connect with Japanese culture in a peaceful setting.
Sankeien Garden: A Year-Round Haven
Sankeien Garden is a hidden gem in Yokohama, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore historic architecture, or simply enjoy the seasonal scenery, this garden provides a serene escape from the city. If you visit, be sure to share your photos and experiences in the comments or on social media with the hashtag #SankeienGarden. Happy exploring!
Be sure to check out my other guides on the stunning parks, themed facilities, spas, and instagrammable spots in Yokohama!
