Koishikawa Kōrakuen Garden

Koishikawa Kōrakuen is an Edo-period garden in the Kōraku district of Bunkyo City, combining ponds, hills, bridges, and pavilions across a wooded terrain. The paths wind through changing scenes of water, stone, and trees, arranged to represent miniature versions of Japanese and Chinese landscapes.

The site began as a private garden for the Tokugawa family in 1629 and was finished around four decades later by the second head of the Mito branch. A Chinese scholar influenced the design, bringing continental elements into the composition.

The garden incorporates miniature recreations of famous Japanese and Chinese landscapes, including Lake Biwa and traditional architectural elements like Tokujin-do building.

Opening hours run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last entry half an hour before closing. Two entrances on the east and west sides provide access from the surrounding city.

A small rice paddy sits within the grounds, recalling the agricultural practice of the feudal period. The trees shift their colors through the seasons, from plum blossoms in spring to red maple leaves in autumn.

Location: Kōraku

Inception: 1629

Founders: Tokugawa Yorifusa, Tokugawa Mitsukuni

Official opening: April 3, 1938

Fee: Yes

Operator: 東京都公園協会

Address: 東京都文京区後楽一丁目6番6号

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 09:30-17:00; December 29-January 01 off

Phone: +81338113015

Website: https://tokyo-park.or.jp/teien/es/koishikawa

GPS coordinates: 35.70556,139.74917

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:22