Looking for an escape from the hussle and bustle of Japan? Traditional Japanese gardens are popular among Japanese and foreigners, because of its unique architectural designs and peaceful atmosphere that makes you want to forget all your worries!

Japanese gardens also capture aspects of the traditional Shinto religion, as well as Daoism and Buddhism. The gardens capture multiple historical events, from the Edo period that is well represented throughout the gardens. Find your favourite Japanese garden that matches your aesthetic to enjoy your evening!

 

 

 

1. Adachi Museum of Art, Shimane

 

Photo: flickr

 

The Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane is ranked as one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in Japan. The garden is so peaceful with ancient Japanese atmosphere, it has 6 paths that lead to 6 different gardens, each garden has a beauty of its own. You can enjoy all types of Japanese gardens just by visiting the Adachi Museum of Art. The garden was found in 1970 by Adachi Zenko who had hoped that the beautiful scenery combining with Japanese artworks will increase tourists’ appreciation for Japanese beauty. The garden can be enjoyed at any time of the year, it expresses different atmosphere demanding on the season.

 

 

 

2. Katsura Imperial Villa, Kyoto

 

Photo: jalan

 

Katsura Imperial Villa combines one of the finest Japanese architectures and garden designs. The garden was constructed in 1645 for the Katsura family, a  member of Japanese’s Imperial Family. The garden has a central pond and palace buildings situated in the middle. The Katsura Imperial Villa is restricted for general public and can only be entered with a tour guide. Despite the restriction, it is still a beautiful place that captures the arts of Japan.

 

Photo: jalan

 

 

 

3. Yumura Tokiwa Hotel, Yamanashi

 

Photo: rakuten.travel

 

Yumura Tokiwa Hotel is located in Yamanashi. It has a beautiful Japanese garden that can be accessed by guests. The hotel garden is based on pine trees with blooming flowers surrounding it. In winter, the snow forms on top of the buildings and trees, creating a spectacular scenery that will resonate in your heart.

 

 

Photo: rakuten.travel

 

 

 

4. Gosho Nishi Kyoto Heian Hotel, Kyoto

 

Photo: kyoto-heian-hotel

 

This beautiful garden in Gosho Nishi Kyoto Heian Hotel was built in Edo period and was later remodelled by Mr. Jihei Ogawa. The garden has a beautiful Japanese architecture and interior that take you back in time to the Edo period. It is surrounded by nature and trees that gorgeously boom during spring and summer, which is about the most beautiful sights you will ever see. In winter though, the trees are covered in soft and pure white snow, creating a mesmerising scenery that is hard to forget.

 

 

 

 

5. Yamamoto-tei, Tokyo

 

Photo: garden-guide

 

Yamamoto-tei has been named and awarded as one of the most gorgeous gardens in several magazines due to its delicately designed Japanese gardens and architecture. Yamamoto-tei is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property by the Katsushika ward and has since been a popular attraction to many Japanese tourists and foreigners. The garden of Yamamoto-tei is a typical shoin garden, a design which prioritises the view of the garden as seen by an observer inside the building. It has a pond, trees and waterfalls that allow you to truly appreciate the Japanese nature. 

 

Photo: garden-guide

 

 

 

6. Yokokan Garden, Fukui

 

Photo: tabi-mag

 

Yokokan Garden was built in the Edo period, and it is located in Fukui. The garden has a beautiful lake running along the residence, it gives a peaceful atmosphere that will relax your mind. It has an elegant shoin style architecture and garden make this one of the representative gardens of the mid-Edo period. You can take a stroll along the lake to truly appreciate the nature of the garden.

 

Photo: dearfukui

 

 

 

7. Murin-an, Kyoto

 

Photo: oniwa-garden

 

Murin-an is a private villa originally built in the Taisho Period. The garden is a scenic paradise tucked away between the busy streets in Kyoto. It has a lovely little pond, small teahouse, and a western style building converted into a museum. The garden is possessed of a beautiful aesthetic that cannot be found anywhere else, the peaceful sound of the waterfall streaming down the riversides makes it so calming and relaxing.

 

Photo: digistyle-kyoto

 

 

 

8. Kasuien Minami, Shimane

 

Photo: kasuien-minami

 

Kasuien Minami has a beautiful Japanese garden that is situated in Shimane . A beautiful inn in the garden, with flowers bloom every season in the well-maintained garden. A beautiful scenery that you won’t forget. This place is worth a visit if you need a break from the busy streets of Japan.

 

Photo: rakuten.travel

 

 

 

9. Ritsurin Garden, Kagawa

 

Photo: oniwa-garden

 

Ritsurin Garden is a beautiful garden with a deep historical value, the garden was built in Edo period. It is considered as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan and has been listed as a recommended location for tourists to visit. The gorgeous park features various ponds, hills, historic trees, and beautiful pavilions divided into a Japanese style garden in the south and western style garden in the north. Additionally, you can pay a small fee to enjoy some tea in the teahouse overlooking the ponds.

 

Photo: ana

 

 

 

10. Garden Inn Sekitei, Hiroshima

 

Photo: rakuten.travel

 

The Garden Inn Sekitei is its own compact Japanese paradise just a little away from the stunning Seto coastline. Around one hour outside of Hiroshima City, this traditional ryokan is set in the beautiful hills with a view overlooking Seto sea and the nearby Miyajima Island, which is home to the Itsukushima Shrine. Spending your evening here to truly enjoy the beautiful sight of Japanese beauty.

 

Photo: rakuten.travel 

 

 

 

11. Nijo Castle Ninomaru Garden, Kyoto

 

Photo: nijo-jocastle 

 

Nijo was built in 1603 in the Edo period, it is surrounded by green space and tree lined walking paths. Cherry trees of numerous varieties are planted throughout the castle grounds, including nearly 400 cherry trees that bloom during the spring season, creating a beautiful sight. The blooming season at Nijo Castle usually lasts from late March through the entire month of April. If you are there, don’t forget to visit this stunning place.

 

 

 

12. Minamikan, Shimane

 

Photo: minami-g

 

Founded in 1888, Minamikan is a well-established ryokan located in Shimane Prefecture with 130 years of history behind it. It is a great location overlooking a fine view of Lake Shinji. It has a beautiful lakeside garden with many old pine trees that has been standing strong since ancient time. A beautiful scenery so loved by visitors that have captivated the hearts of all those who visit.

 

 

 

 

Source

Rtrp