Rakusuien - a chess board with a chessboard
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Rakusuien

4
·2k reviews·Fukuoka, Japan

A serene Japanese garden in Fukuoka, featuring a tea house, koi pond, and waterfall. A peaceful urban escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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Rakusuien - a chess board with a chessboard

Rakusuien

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Japanese garden in Fukuoka, featuring a tea house, koi pond, and waterfall. A peaceful urban escape.

4
(2k reviews)

"Beautiful, tranquil little space in the middle of a bustling cityscape for just ¥100."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Cash for Entry

Entrance is only ¥100, but they prefer cash! Also, consider the ¥500 matcha combo for a special treat.

🍵 Matcha Break

Order your matcha and enjoy it in the tatami room while waiting. It takes about 15 mins to prepare.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Tea House Experience

Tranquil Tea House Experience

Tea House

Sip freshly made matcha in a cozy tatami room overlooking the serene garden. A truly authentic Japanese experience.

Koi Pond Serenity

Koi Pond Serenity

Main Pond

Watch vibrant koi glide through the clear waters of the pond, a mesmerizing sight amidst the lush greenery.

Cascading Waterfall

Cascading Waterfall

Garden Waterfall

The gentle sound of the small waterfall adds to the garden's peaceful ambiance, creating a therapeutic atmosphere.

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Budget-Friendly Oasis

Escape the city bustle at Rakusuien for just ¥100! This tranquil Japanese garden offers a peaceful retreat without breaking the bank. Perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.

Cash is King Here

While the entrance fee is minimal (¥100), remember to bring cash. Many visitors note that only cash is accepted for admission and tea purchases, so be prepared!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Enjoy shade on warm days
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @nenaleivs Should I get Pocket wifi for eSIM when traveling to Japan 🤔 Let’s breakdown the pros + cons of both #japantravelguide #japantraveltips #japantiktok #japantravel #japanthings
@suginofilter
17.8K likes • 367.9K views

🎯 Bring Cash for Entry

Entrance is only ¥100, but they prefer cash! Also, consider the ¥500 matcha combo for a special treat. Reddit

🍵 Matcha Break

Order your matcha and enjoy it in the tatami room while waiting. It takes about 15 mins to prepare. Reddit

🐟 Feed the Koi!

You can buy fish food at the entrance to feed the beautiful koi and even some pigeons. Reddit

🤫 Enjoy the Silence

This is a place for quiet contemplation. Please respect the tranquility and enjoy the garden in silence. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Cash for Entry

Entrance is only ¥100, but they prefer cash! Also, consider the ¥500 matcha combo for a special treat. Reddit

🍵 Matcha Break

Order your matcha and enjoy it in the tatami room while waiting. It takes about 15 mins to prepare. Reddit

🐟 Feed the Koi!

You can buy fish food at the entrance to feed the beautiful koi and even some pigeons. Reddit

🤫 Enjoy the Silence

This is a place for quiet contemplation. Please respect the tranquility and enjoy the garden in silence. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Rakusuien as a beautiful, tranquil oasis in the heart of Fukuoka, offering a therapeutic escape for a very low price. The friendly staff and the option to enjoy matcha in a traditional setting are highlights, though some note it's a small garden best enjoyed for a short, peaceful visit.

"Beautiful, tranquil little space in the middle of a bustling cityscape. It costs a mere ¥100 to enter. Sitting on one of the benches and admiring the well kept trees and plants with the sound of the waterfall in the background can be therapeutic. Also, the people running the place were so friendly!"

JATHL

"Very pretty garden. It’s not super big, but perfect to sit down and relax in the shade on a warm day. Entrance fee is 100 Yen, it seemed like they only accept cash."

Daan Klijn

"Beautiful, quiet little garden in the middle of the city and it's only ¥100 to enter. You can sit on one of the benches and enjoy the sound of the waterfall. The people running the place are very friendly, we were also allowed to visit the little tea house. And don't forget to buy some fish food at the entrance, the beautiful koi (and pigeons) will thank you for it!"

Tesi Power

What People Like

Incredibly affordable
Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Small garden size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rakusuien is conveniently located in central Fukuoka. You can reach it via public transport. The closest subway station is Gion Station on the Kuko Line, which is about a 10-minute walk away. Buses also serve the area, with stops near the garden. Reddit

While Rakusuien is in the city center, parking can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Use a navigation app on your phone and search for 'Rakusuien'. It's a well-known spot, so most apps will guide you directly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is very affordable at just ¥100 per adult. Children may have a reduced fee. Reddit

No, it's best to bring cash as many visitors report that only cash is accepted for the entrance fee and any purchases like matcha. Reddit

Rakusuien is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or holiday closures before your visit. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for Rakusuien due to its small size and low admission fee. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. Reddit

While the garden entry is ¥100, you can opt for a matcha and sweet set for an additional ¥500. This includes your garden admission. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire garden offers beautiful photo opportunities. Focus on the reflections in the pond, the koi, the tea house architecture, and the lush greenery. The small waterfall is also a picturesque spot. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in enclosed areas like the tea house. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more serene atmosphere for your photos. Reddit

🍽️ 🍵 Food & Dining

Rakusuien offers a traditional matcha tea and sweet experience for ¥500, which includes garden admission. This is the primary dining option within the garden. Reddit

You can enjoy freshly made matcha green tea, a staple of Japanese tea culture, served with a traditional sweet. Reddit

Yes, being in central Fukuoka, there are numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding Rakusuien, offering a wide variety of Japanese and international cuisine. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rakusuien is a wonderful, budget-friendly spot for families looking for a peaceful escape. The low admission fee (¥100) makes it accessible for everyone. Kids will likely enjoy feeding the colorful koi in the pond – you can buy fish food at the entrance! Reddit

While it's a quiet garden, the visual elements like the pond, fish, and small waterfall can captivate younger visitors. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Japanese garden aesthetics in a relaxed setting. The tea house experience, while perhaps more suited for older children or adults, can also be a unique cultural introduction. Remember to bring cash for entry and any treats. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Rakusuien is a dream for budget travelers, offering immense beauty for a minimal cost. The entrance fee is a mere ¥100, making it one of Fukuoka's most affordable attractions. Reddit

For an even more enriching experience, the ¥500 matcha and sweet set is highly recommended. It includes your garden admission and a delightful taste of Japanese tradition. This makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon without spending much. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Rakusuien's History

Rakusuien, originally built in 1906 as a villa by a Hakata merchant, was transformed into a public Japanese garden in 1995 by Fukuoka City. Its design features an Ikeizumi-style circling pattern, a classic element in Japanese landscape architecture. The garden's unique Hakata-bei walls, constructed from stone, tile, and clay, add to its historical charm and local identity. Despite its modest size, Rakusuien offers a profound sense of peace and a connection to Fukuoka's past. Reddit

Visitors can explore the meticulously maintained grounds, which include a small, soothing waterfall and a pond teeming with vibrant koi. The garden's layout encourages a slow, contemplative stroll, allowing you to appreciate the subtle beauty of each element. The presence of traditional tea rooms further enhances the immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the refined aesthetics of Japanese culture. Reddit

The garden's name, Rakusuien, evokes a sense of pleasure and tranquility, which is precisely what it aims to provide. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Japanese gardens and their ability to offer respite in urban environments. The friendly staff also contribute to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a memorable visit for all. Reddit

Experiencing the Tea Ceremony

For a truly immersive experience at Rakusuien, consider partaking in their traditional tea ceremony. For ¥500, you receive not only admission to the garden but also a freshly prepared bowl of matcha green tea served with a delicate Japanese sweet. This is a fantastic value, combining the beauty of the garden with a taste of Japanese culture. Reddit

The process is designed to be relaxing. You can order your matcha and then choose to either wander through the garden while it's being prepared (it typically takes about 15 minutes) or wait in one of the cozy tatami rooms. These rooms offer a serene setting to enjoy the quiet ambiance before your tea is ready. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to savor the experience in silence, respecting the peaceful atmosphere of the tea rooms and the garden. It's a moment to disconnect from the outside world and appreciate the simple elegance of the ritual. The friendly staff are often happy to accommodate, making the experience even more special. Reddit

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