Shukkei-en

Shukkei-en is a Japanese strolling garden in Naka-ku that uses a central pond to connect hills, valleys, and rock formations. The layout spans roughly four hectares and presents different landscape views from every angle.

The garden was created in 1620 as a private retreat for Asano Nagaakira, the first feudal lord of Hiroshima Domain. After destruction in 1945, the site was rebuilt decades later following historical plans.

The name combines Chinese characters meaning shrunken or miniature, which reflects how the layout compresses famous landscapes from across Japan into a small area. Visitors cross arched stone bridges and follow winding paths that shift the view with every step.

The site sits near the main train station and opens daily between 9 AM and 6 PM in summer, closing an hour earlier in winter. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes because paths can be uneven and shift between different levels.

Each section reproduces a famous Japanese landscape in compressed form, allowing visitors to walk through multiple regions without leaving the garden. The site is among the few historical gardens in Hiroshima that were fully restored after the war.

Location: Naka-ku

Inception: 1620

Official opening: 1940

Fee: Yes

Charge: 260 JPY

Part of: 100 Best Historical Parks in Japan

Opening Hours: March 16-September 15 09:00-18:00; September 15-March 15 09:00-17:00; December 29-31 off

Phone: +81822213620

Website: https://shukkeien.jp

GPS coordinates: 34.40028,132.46750

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29