Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu Gardens (Hama-rikyū Onshi Teien) is a beautiful and historic garden located in the heart of Tokyo, along the shores of Tokyo Bay, not far from the Ginza district. The history of Hamarikyu Gardens dates back to the Edo period (17th century). It was originally built as a tidal duck hunting ground for the Tokugawa shogunate. In the subsequent Meiji era, it was transformed into a public garden and served as a detached palace for the Imperial family. The garden is surrounded by a seawater moat, which is affected by the tides of Tokyo Bay.

The garden features a combination of traditional Japanese garden elements and tidal ponds that are connected to the sea. It is known for its meticulously landscaped grounds, walking paths, and teahouses, including Nakajima-no-ochaya and Matsu-no-ochaya, where visitors can enjoy matcha (green tea) and traditional Japanese sweets while taking in views of the garden and the surrounding waters.

Activities

Exciting and memorable things to do

Full Day Tokyo Highlights Private Tour

Explore Asakusa, Tokyo’s old town, where you can visit the Senso-ji Temple and wander down the Nakamise shopping street. Next, travel down the Sumidagawa River on Tokyo’s Water Bus, and visit Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo-period Japanese garden, where you will enjoy a a cup of steaming matcha in a tea house. Later, enjoy a visit to Meiji Shrine, and take a walk down the flashy Omotesando shopping street, a home to flagship stores of some of the world’s top fashion brands.