Happo-en Garden
1 Chome-1-1 Shirokanedai, Minato, Tokyo, Kanto, 108-8631
Happo-en, Japanese for “beautiful from every angle,” perfectly describes this ornamental Japanese garden and teahouse in the Shirokanedai area of Tokyo. Walk down Happo-en Garden's winding paths, admire its centuries-old cherry and maple trees, and reflect by its serene ponds. And don't miss the garden's oldest tree—a Japanese bonsai which has been growing here for more than 500 years.
The basics
Built in the early 17th century, Happo-en Garden incorporates a natural stream that feeds the ponds. The teahouse and kaiseki restaurant (kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner) were added in the 19th century, and both are still in operation today. Today, the garden welcomes visitors from around the world for a cup of green tea, served in traditional style. The garden is also often used for weddings. For visitors short on time, guided city tours stop at the garden as part of a multi-site tour of the city.
Things to know before you go
- Book a tour in advance to experience a Japanese tea ceremony at the tea house.
- The garden is wheelchair-accessible.
- Entry to the garden is free.
How to get there
Happo-en garden is in the Shirokanedai neighborhood in Tokyo. The closest metros are JR Meguro Station and JR Shirokanedai Station. You can also get to the area by bus, car, or taxi. Guided city tours are another great way to visit.
When to get there
The garden is open year round. Spring Festival (late March/early April), when thousands of cherry blossom trees come into bloom across Tokyo, brings many people to the garden. Weekends are generally the busiest time to visit, especially Saturday afternoons. Plan your visit outside of these times to avoid the crowds.
Nearby Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum
Close to Happo-en Garden and housed in the former residence of Prince Asaka of Japan, the art deco Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum offers exhibitions about decorative arts and photography and also has a traditional Japanese garden. The building itself is also worthy of note, with interior features by French glassmaker René Lalique.
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