Shukkeien Garden
A 17th-century Japanese strolling garden, Shukkeien offers miniature landscapes, a koi pond, and seasonal beauty for a tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Shukkeien Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century Japanese strolling garden, Shukkeien offers miniature landscapes, a koi pond, and seasonal beauty for a tranquil escape.
"A peaceful and beautifully maintained garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll. "
🎯 Affordable Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable (around 260 yen), making it an accessible and worthwhile visit. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the winding paths and enjoying the full beauty of the garden. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koi Pond
Center of the garden
A serene centerpiece with vibrant koi carp, reflecting the surrounding beauty. A perfect spot for quiet observation.
Seasonal Flora
Throughout the garden
From cherry blossoms in spring to fiery maples in autumn, the garden's diverse vegetation offers year-round visual delight.
Miniature Landscapes
Across the garden
Experience valleys, mountains, and forests artfully condensed into a 10-acre space, inspired by classical Chinese style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Embrace the Stroll
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable (around 260 yen), making it an accessible and worthwhile visit. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the winding paths and enjoying the full beauty of the garden. :athletic_shoe:
Shukkei-en, Hiroshima, Japan - a beautiful Japanese garden near ground zero
Shukkeien v.s. Kokoen
📸 Capture the Scenery
The garden offers numerous picturesque spots, perfect for photography enthusiasts. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic Potential
It's an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic, offering a relaxing escape amidst nature.
Korakuen or Shukkeien?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable (around 260 yen), making it an accessible and worthwhile visit. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the winding paths and enjoying the full beauty of the garden. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The garden offers numerous picturesque spots, perfect for photography enthusiasts. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic Potential
It's an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic, offering a relaxing escape amidst nature.
🗺️ Grab a Map
Consider grabbing a map to fully appreciate the garden's layout and features.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shukkeien Garden for its serene atmosphere, meticulous maintenance, and beautiful traditional Japanese design. It's highlighted as a peaceful oasis perfect for relaxation and photography, offering a delightful escape from the city bustle. While small, its intricate details and seasonal beauty make it a highly recommended stop for garden enthusiasts.
"* Getting here - see below please
This was really one of the highlighs of the visit to Hiroshima. A beautiful and somewhat hidden and underrated Japanese garden. Very serene and condensed, and also extremely romantic. There is the main lake, but also several bridges, a couple of small hills, winding walking path, a central shrine, and finally, in the small lake also fish and water turtles
I suggest you give yourself at least a couple of hours here
Also, getting here, I highly recommend walking the path on the riverbank.
Please see photos
Oh, of course, the wonderful art museum is right close by and the ticket can include both beautiful and highly spiritually satisfying attractions. Weekend a half a day here at the least."
Chaim Noy
"Very popular garden in Hiroshima. There is an entrance fee but it is less than 1,000 yen with children and students paying a reduced fee.
A decent sized garden with a small shop inside to buy snacks and drinks. A vending machine and tables are next to the shop as well. A restroom is available close by the shop.
Lots of flowers, greenery, and koi fishes in the garden. It was not packed when I visited but definitely had a sizable crowd. Still, there is plenty of space available to walk around and enjoy the garden."
Kevin Huang
"Shukkei-en Garden is a peaceful and charming place that makes you want to slow down and simply enjoy the moment. Every part of the garden has something unique to offer, with beautiful views that feel carefully designed and well cared for.
Although it’s not very large, it provides a refreshing escape from the city and creates a truly calming atmosphere. It’s also a wonderful spot to take lots of photos, as every corner seems picture-perfect.
Overall, a lovely and relaxing garden that’s definitely worth a visit when in Hiroshima."
Clothilde Sodoyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shukkeien Garden is easily accessible from Hiroshima Station. You can take a tram (streetcar) on lines 2 or 6 towards Hiroshima Port and get off at the 'Haguro-cho' stop, which is a short walk from the garden. Alternatively, a taxi will take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Yes, Shukkeien Garden is within walking distance of Hiroshima Castle. It's a pleasant stroll, allowing you to combine visits to both attractions easily.
If you're in downtown Hiroshima, taking a tram is often the most convenient and scenic option. Look for trams heading towards the garden's general direction and alight at the nearest stop.
While there might be limited parking nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transportation as parking can be challenging in the city center.
The Japan Rail Pass covers JR trains, but not local trams or buses. You'll need to pay separately for tram or bus fares to reach Shukkeien Garden.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Shukkeien Garden is very affordable, typically around 260 yen as of recent information. It's a small price for a beautiful experience.
Shukkeien Garden generally opens around 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, depending on the season. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
No, advance booking is typically not required for Shukkeien Garden. You can purchase your tickets at the entrance upon arrival.
Information on specific discounts can vary, but generally, the standard entry fee is quite low. Check with the ticket counter for any potential group or special rates.
Some tourist passes might include entry to certain attractions. It's best to verify the specific inclusions of any pass you are considering to see if Shukkeien Garden is covered.
📸 📸 Photography
The garden offers numerous picturesque spots, including the central koi pond, the various bridges, the tea houses, and the meticulously maintained flora. The miniature landscapes themselves are also highly photogenic.
Generally, drone usage is restricted in most Japanese gardens to preserve the tranquility and safety of visitors. It's advisable to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the 'golden hour,' provide beautiful, soft lighting that enhances the garden's natural beauty and minimizes harsh shadows.
Tripods are usually permitted in Japanese gardens, but it's wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. Check with garden staff if you have specific concerns.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a prime lens like a 50mm, is great for capturing the overall scenery and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the miniature landscapes.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring Shukkeien Garden, allowing ample time to wander the paths, admire the scenery, and relax.
Yes, there is a tea shop within Shukkeien Garden where you can enjoy traditional Japanese tea and sweets, offering a perfect break during your visit.
While the garden has many winding paths, some areas might be uneven. It's a good idea to check accessibility information beforehand if mobility is a concern.
You can often purchase special food to feed the koi carp in the pond, which is a popular activity. Feeding other wildlife is generally discouraged.
Shukkeien Garden is beautiful year-round, but it's particularly stunning during spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for vibrant foliage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a stroller if you have very young children, as some paths might be uneven. The garden is also a lovely spot for a family picnic, providing a relaxing break from sightseeing. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens in a calm environment.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk from Hiroshima Castle to save on transportation costs. Pack your own snacks or a simple lunch to enjoy as a picnic within the garden, further reducing expenses. It's a high-value experience for a minimal cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Miniature Landscapes
The garden's design emphasizes a 'stroll garden' approach, encouraging visitors to wander along winding paths that reveal new vistas at every turn. The central pond acts as a focal point, reflecting the surrounding meticulously pruned trees and the sky above. This deliberate arrangement creates a sense of depth and tranquility, inviting contemplation and a deep appreciation for the harmony between nature and human artistry.
Throughout the centuries, Shukkeien Garden has undergone renovations, most notably between 1783 and 1791, which largely preserved its current layout. This historical continuity ensures that visitors today can experience the garden much as it was intended, a testament to its enduring aesthetic appeal and its significance as a cultural heritage site.
Seasonal Beauty and Wildlife
Beyond the flora, the garden is also a haven for local wildlife. The central pond teems with colorful koi carp, and visitors often have the opportunity to purchase food to feed them, a delightful experience for all ages. Various bird species can also be spotted and heard, adding to the natural ambiance. This interplay of seasonal changes and resident wildlife makes Shukkeien Garden a dynamic and ever-evolving destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit