Introduction
Sankeien Garden is a serene oasis in Yokohama. It offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Spanning 175,000 square meters, this traditional Japanese garden showcases a harmonious blend of nature and architecture. The garden’s exquisite beauty and historical significance make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This article get down to the details how to spend there.
1. About Sankeien Garden
Brief about Sankeien
Sankeien Garden (三渓園) was designed by Sankei Hara, a wealthy silk merchant. The garden features winding paths, ponds, streams, and an array of seasonal blooms, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. All those elements embody the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics. That emphasize simplicity, balance, and the natural beauty of the environment. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, relax in tea houses, and admire the elegant harmony between the garden’s natural and architectural elements.
Seasonal blooming
The garden is also famous for its seasonal blooming. From the end of July to the beginning of August, lotus flowers play a significant role in this garden. One of the garden’s ponds come alive with the vibrant blooms of lotus flowers. It creates a stunning visual display of early summer. They symbolises the purity and enlightenment in Japanese culture. Also they enhance the garden’s tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can observe the lotus flowers up close and enjoying their delicate beauty and the sense of peace they bring. The lotus pond is a favourite spot for photography and contemplation.
Replaced Structures
Sankeien Garden is home to several historical buildings transported from various parts of Japan. These buildings provide a glimpse into Japan’s architectural past. Visitors can explore these well-preserved structures. They also give you the insight into traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the cultural heritage preserved within the garden. We introduce you some notable structures.
1. Three-Storied Pagoda
Origin: Originally from Tomyoji Temple in Kyoto.
History: Built in 1457, this pagoda is one of the oldest structures in the garden.
Significance: The pagoda is an icon of Sankeien Garden. This architecture gives a great accent on the landscapes of the garden.
2. Gekkaden (Moon Viewing Pavilion)
Origin: Originally from a temple in Kamakura.
History: Constructed in the early Edo period, this pavilion was used for moon viewing and tea ceremonies.
Significance: The Gekkaden offers a spot for contemplation. It is also a testament to the cultural importance of moon viewing.
3. Former Yanohara Family Residence
Origin: Originally from Shirakawago in Gifu Prefecture.
History: Constructed in the mid-18th century, it represents the lifestyle of wealthy farmer families.
Significance: This building offers insights into the domestic life of the Edo period. It features a large hearth and spacious living areas.
2. The Warmness of The Wealthy Silk Merchant
Sankeien Garden is based on two sections. The Inner Garden is a secluded and picturesque area that was originally the private garden of the Hara family. This section offers a more intimate and tranquil experience compared to the Outer Garden.
Sankei Memorial Museum
The Sankei Memorial Museum in the Inner Garden serves his contributions to Japanese culture and also his passion for preserving historical architecture. The museum provides Sankei’s works of calligraphy and the other art pieces. Those include not only personal belongings of Sankei, but also the items related to the garden’s construction and development. Visitors can explore a variety of artifacts that reflect the history and cultural significance of the garden.
Choshukaku
One of renowned structure, Choshukaku, was built in the early Edo period. Sankei Hara spent the silent moment with his family there. Also, he hosted his clients at this building and made them feel relaxed. Then, Its name means “pavilion for listening to autumn.” It reflects its purpose as a place for enjoying coloured leaves and the other seasonal beauties.
Tea Houses
There are some tea houses in the Inner Garden. They provide spaces for tea ceremonies and quiet contemplation. These structures offer a glimpse into the cultural practices associated with Japanese gardens. Not only the cultural practices, but also you can enjoy a tea time there. Some houses near the area offers light meals such as dumplings and buckwheat noodles. With the panoramic landscape, take a rest and spend a peaceful moment.
3. Adventure of Past Time
Three-Storied Pagoda
In the Outer Garden, visitors can explore breathtaking panorama of lush landscapes. Three-Storied Pagoda at the top is a highlight of the garden. It is the oldest building within the garden. This pagoda was relocated from Tōmyōji Temple in Kyoto and was constructed on a small hill. Now, it become a symbol of Sankeien Garden. Sankei designed every placement of historical buildings and sceneries to see this iconic tower. Hence, you can see its best view from everywhere you are.
Former Yanohara Family Residence
At the end of the Outer Garden, there is a huge house with thatched roof. Former Yanohara Family Residence offers insights into traditional Japanese craftsmanship and rural life. It is a testament to the cultural heritage of Japan and the importance of preserving historical structures. You can observe not only traditional construction techniques, but also the use of natural materials. It enables visitors to know people’s lives in the ancient time.
The Great Pond (Oike)
The view around the Great Pond reminds us Japan’s originally scenery. This expansive pond is integral to the garden’s design and adds to its tranquil atmosphere. A lot of birds take a rest beside the pond. The time in there passes slowly. It also provides stunning reflections of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic three-story pagoda. The scenic views around the pond change with the seasons, offering a dynamic and picturesque experience year-round.
4. The Closest Travel Into The Past
Sankeien Garden is a beautiful fusion of nature and history. It features carefully designed landscapes with paths, ponds, and seasonal blooms. Sankei Hara had dedicated his emotion to host visitors and preserve those traditional architectures. With the skillfully arranged sceneries, visitors to enjoy the harmonious blend of ancient architecture and nature.
Moreover, It takes only 1 hour from the Great Tokyo area. That is so astonishing that you can make use of this location. It enables to see such a ancient technique without going Kyoto and other historical destinations. How about come into the ancient journey closer?
| INFOMATION | |
|---|---|
| Address | 58-1 Honmoku Sannotani, Yokohama, Kanagawa How to get there? |
| Opening Hours | 9:00-17:00 |
| Closed | New Year’s days |
| Admission | Adult: 900 yen Child (6～15): 200 yen |
| Parking | Available |
| Transportations | 10 minutes walk from Honmoku Bus stop TimeTable from Negishi Station（Route 58 and 101）Duraion: 10minutes In holidays, express bus services (Route S) available from both Yokohama and Sakuragicho Stations Duraion: 30 to 40 minutes |
| Official Website | Yokohama Sankeien Garden (translate in English available) |
