Hama Rikyu Gardens

The Basics

The Hama Rikyu Gardens once served as duck hunting grounds for Tokyo’s feudal lords, back in the 17th and 18th centuries when Tokyo was known as Edo. Today, with its winding paths and bridges spanning tranquil pools, it’s quite the contrast from the skyscrapers and neon lights of the Shiodome district that can be seen crowding the edges of the park. The traditional teahouse—located on an island in one of the pools—is a pleasant place to relax, and you can experience a traditional tea ceremony here.

The gardens are close to the high-end shopping district Ginza, and the famous Tsukiji fish market is close by. Although the ‘inner market’ with its daily tuna auction, has moved to a new site, the ‘outer market’ with vendors selling everything from sushi to kitchen knives is still located here. Whether you’re joining a guided tour of the city—which is sure to stop by the gardens—or planning a trip to the market, it’s well worth spending time here.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Entrance to the garden is via paid ticket.
• Travel to the garden by river bus for a unique experience.
• There’s a good view of Tokyo’s famous rainbow bridge from the garden’s riverside.

How to Get There

The garden is located at Hamarikyuteien, Chuo. The closest metro stations are Shiodome Station on the Oedo Subway Line and the major hub of Shimbashi Station. River buses dock at the garden too. For the no-stress way to get around the city, private tours with transport provided are also available.

When to Get There

The garden is open all year round. While it’s not one of the top cherry blossom parks in the city, there are cherry blossom trees here that bloom in spring—and usually fewer people than at other sites. You’ll also see peonies in bloom here in the spring, and lovely leaf colors in the fall.

Visit Asakusa

Hop on the river bus from Hama Riku to head to Asakusa and the famous Senso-Ji temple, built in the 7th century AD. This ancient district is one of the city’s most historic areas, and as you pass through the carved wooden Thunder Gate with its huge lantern you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Ways to explore

The Hama Rikyu Gardens served as duck-hunting grounds for Tokyo’s feudal lords in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, their lawns, winding paths, and bridges spanning tranquil pools make for a nice place to stroll or take a picnic on a fine day.

The gardens are close to the high-end Ginza district and the Tsukiji Fish Market. Whether you’re joining a guided tour of the city—many of which stop at the gardens—or planning a trip to the market, it’s well worth spending time here. You can also take private tours that focus on Tokyo’s parks and gardens.

Accessibility

The park is reasonably accessible, with accessible parking, wheelchair ramps, and some multi-use restrooms. Parts of the park are less accessible to wheelchair users, though, including the teahouse.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Snacks for enjoying a picnic in designated areas, sunscreen

What to wear

Sun hat or sun umbrella (very commonly used in Japan), comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Smoking, alcoholic drinks, picnic mats

Amenities

Teahouse, snack and souvenir kiosks, restrooms, free Wi-Fi

Address

The gardens are located in central Tokyo’s Chuo City, south of Ginza and southwest of Tsukiji. It’s easy to get there via public transportation, with many stations within walking distance.

Driving

Driving in central Tokyo isn’t recommended, due to the traffic and the difficulty (and expense) of parking. If you must drive, head east of the Tokyo Tower or south of Ginza. The garden doesn’t have general parking (just spots for tour buses and wheelchair users), but there are large parking lots at the nearby Tsukiji Fish Market.

Public transportation

Take the Oedo Subway or Yurikamome line to Shiodome Station, about a 10-minute walk from the gardens. Alternatively, take one of several lines to the larger Shimbashi Station, about a 15-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

The gardens are typically open from 9am until 5pm. In the hotter months, visit early for a cooler experience.

Best days to visit

Go midweek to avoid the busier weekend crowds, both in the gardens and on the trains.

Best months to visit

Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are especially nice times to see colorful seasonal flowers and autumn leaves in the gardens.

Special events

Seasonal flower and foliage-viewing festivals are held throughout the year, when various plant species are at their best. Come in the spring for the cherry blossom festival, or in the fall for the colored leaves festival.