Hama-rikyu Gardens

Hama-rikyu Gardens is one of Tokyo's most beautiful historic Japanese landscape gardens, located along the waterfront of Tokyo Bay in Chuo City. Surrounded by the modern skyscrapers of Shiodome, the garden offers a striking contrast between traditional Edo-period scenery and contemporary Tokyo architecture.
Originally developed as a residence and garden for the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period, Hama-rikyu later became a detached palace of the Imperial Family. After being transferred to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the garden opened to the public in 1946. Today, it is recognized as an important historic landscape representing Tokyo's cultural heritage.
One of the garden's most distinctive features is Shioiri-no-ike, a traditional tidal pond that draws seawater from Tokyo Bay. The water level changes with the tides, creating a landscape that reflects the relationship between the garden and the sea. In the middle of the pond stands Nakajima-no-Ochaya, a traditional Japanese teahouse connected by a wooden bridge, where visitors can enjoy matcha tea and Japanese sweets while admiring the peaceful scenery.
The garden also features beautifully maintained pine trees, including a famous 300-year-old pine, historic teahouses, and seasonal flower fields. Plum blossoms and cherry blossoms decorate the grounds in spring, while autumn brings colorful foliage that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding city skyline.
Combining traditional Japanese garden design, historical architecture, seasonal flowers, and relaxing waterfront views, Hama-rikyu Gardens is an attractive destination for travelers looking to experience a quieter and more elegant side of Tokyo.