Complete Guide to Sankeien Garden (Kanagawa Prefecture) | History, Highlights, Seasonal Enjoyment and Surrounding Spots Thoroughly Explained
Sankeien Garden, located in Honmoku, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is an expansive Japanese garden spanning approximately 175,000 square meters, created by Sankeien Hara (原三溪), a businessman of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Skillfully arranged with historically valuable structures relocated from Kyoto and Kamakura, the landscape harmonizes with natural beauty across the four seasons and was designated as a National Scenic Beauty in 2006. This article provides comprehensive explanations of everything you should know before visiting Sankeien Garden, from its history and highlights to seasonal enjoyment methods, access information, and recommended surrounding spots.
History of Sankeien Garden and Sankeien Hara
The Life of Sankeien Hara (Hara Tomitaro)
Sankeien Hara, whose real name was Hara Tomitaro, was born in 1868 (Keio 4) as the eldest son of the Aoki family, born to the Shoya (village headman) family in Saba Village, Atsumi County, Mino Province (present-day southern Gifu Prefecture). After completing elementary school, he studied Confucianism and later moved to Tokyo to enroll in Tokyo Specialized School (present-day Waseda University). After graduation, he became an assistant teacher at Atomi Academy, but became an adopted son-in-law of the Hara family, raw silk traders in Yokohama, where he found success as a businessman in the raw silk trade.
Sankeien Hara was not merely a businessman but was also known as a cultural figure and tea master, supporting many artists. Prominent painters representing modern Japanese art such as Yokoyama Taikan, Shimomura Kanzan, and Maeda Seison visited Sankeien Garden and engaged in creative activities. Hara himself also painted Southern-style paintings under the name “Sankeien” and possessed deep knowledge of the tea ceremony.
The Creation and Public Opening History of Sankeien Garden
The creation of Sankeien Garden began around 1902 (Meiji 35), and the outer garden section was opened to the public in 1906 (Meiji 39). From the outset, it was provided as a place for visitors to experience traditional Japanese culture under the concept of “a garden open to citizens,” with low admission fees.
The 1923 (Taisho 12) Great Kanto Earthquake damaged buildings within the garden; however, Sankeien Hara devoted private funds to reconstruction efforts. Nevertheless, when Sankeien Hara passed away in 1939 (Showa 14), the garden was forced to close temporarily during World War II. After the war, in 1953 (Showa 28), Sankeien Garden was donated to Yokohama City by the Hara family, and the “Sankeien Hoken-kai Foundation” (currently the Sankeien Hoken-kai Public Interest Incorporated Foundation) was established to advance restoration efforts.
In 1989 (Heisei 1), the “Sankeien Memorial Museum” opened, displaying information about Sankeien Hara’s achievements and the history of Sankeien Garden. In 2000 (Heisei 12), “Kakusho-kaku,” the former residence of the Hara family, was restored and is currently used for tea gatherings, haiku meetings, and other cultural events.
Structures of Sankeien Garden | National Important Cultural Properties and Yokohama City Designated Tangible Cultural Properties
The greatest characteristic of Sankeien Garden is the skillful arrangement of historically important structures relocated from Kyoto and Kamakura. The garden features 10 structures designated as National Important Cultural Properties and 3 structures designated as Yokohama City Designated Tangible Cultural Properties.
National Important Cultural Properties (10 Structures)
Former Tomyoji Three-Story Pagoda
A symbolic presence in the garden, this three-story pagoda from the Muromachi period was relocated from Tomyoji Temple in Kizu River City, Kyoto Prefecture. Positioned on elevated terrain, its appearance harmonizes beautifully with seasonal landscapes and represents one of Sankeien Garden’s signature views.
Rinshunkaku
A building constructed in the early Edo period as a separate villa of the Kii Tokugawa family, featuring sukiya-style shoin architectural style. Usually only the exterior is open to the public, though interior viewings are occasionally offered for limited periods.
Choshuukaku
A tower structure built by Tokugawa Iemitsu within Nijo Castle, said to have been used by Kasuga no Tsubone. It is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season, with the walking path opened during specific periods, attracting many visitors.
Shunsouro
A tea room built by Oda Urakusai, brother of Oda Nobunaga. Despite its small three-mat space, this architecture embodies the spirit of the tea ceremony.
Gekkaden
A structure relocated from Fushimi Castle, said to have been used by Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Tenjuin
A Buddhist hall in Zen architectural style relocated from Kenchoji Temple’s sub-temple in Kamakura.
Former Yanohara Family Residence
A gassho-zukuri farmhouse relocated from Shirakawa Village in Hida, preserving the architectural style of rural construction from the late Edo period.
Former Tokyoji Buddhist Hall
A Buddhist hall from the mid-Edo period relocated from Tokyoji Temple in Kamakura.
Former Tomyoji Main Hall
A main hall from the Muromachi period relocated from Tomyoji Temple in Kizu River City, Kyoto Prefecture.
Former Tenzuiji Jutao Covering Hall
A structure covering the longevity pagoda built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to pray for his mother’s long life.
These structures, despite representing different periods, regions, and architectural styles, are harmoniously arranged within the single space of Sankeien Garden, creating the impression of a Japanese architectural history museum.
Yokohama City Designated Tangible Cultural Properties (3 Structures)
The garden contains three structures designated as Yokohama City Designated Tangible Cultural Properties: Kakusho-kaku, Hakuun-tei, and Rengein. Kakusho-kaku, the former residence of Sankeien Hara, currently serves as a venue for tea gatherings, haiku meetings, and other events.
Highlights by Season | Seasonal Enjoyment Methods
Sankeien Garden displays different characteristics throughout the seasons. The garden features plants such as plums, cherry blossoms, wisteria, lotus flowers, and autumn leaves throughout the year, with events held during each season’s peak viewing periods.
Spring at Sankeien Garden | Competition of Plum and Cherry Blossoms
Plums (February to early March)
The garden features approximately 500 plum trees, including white, red, and weeping varieties in full bloom. During the “Plum Viewing Festival,” extended opening hours allow visitors to enjoy野点 (outdoor tea ceremony). The landscape created by ancient architecture and plum blossoms truly embodies traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Cherry Blossoms (late March to early April)
Approximately 300 cherry trees, primarily Somei Yoshino, color the garden. The combination of the three-story pagoda with cherry blossoms is particularly stunning, attracting many photography enthusiasts. Evening viewing events offer nighttime opening with illuminated cherry blossoms and ancient structures creating a magical atmosphere.
Summer at Sankeien Garden | Early Morning Lotus Viewing
Lotus Flowers (mid-July to early August)
The garden’s large pond allows visitors to appreciate freshly opened lotus flowers in the early morning. During the “Early Morning Lotus Viewing Festival,” the garden opens from 6 a.m., allowing visitors to enjoy lotus flowers in the crisp morning air. Since lotus flowers close by late morning, early visits are worthwhile.
Autumn at Sankeien Garden | Spectacular Autumn Foliage
Autumn Foliage (late November to mid-December)
Sankeien Garden’s autumn foliage beautifully harmonizes with ancient structures. The foliage around Choshuukaku is particularly stunning, with the walking path beyond Choshuukaku specially opened from late November through mid-December (in 2025: November 21 to December 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). The spectacular autumn foliage view of the three-story pagoda in the distance ranks among Sankeien Garden’s signature landscapes.
Winter at Sankeien Garden | Beauty of Silence
Winter at Sankeien Garden features fewer tourists, allowing visitors to appreciate the traditional Japanese garden atmosphere. On snowy days, snow-covered ancient structures create fantastic landscapes. Special events may also be held during the New Year period.
Basic Information about Sankeien Garden | Operating Hours, Admission, and Access
Operating Hours and Closed Days
Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last admission at 4:30 p.m.)
*Operating hours may change depending on season and events.
Closed Days: December 29 to December 31
Admission Fees
- Adults (High School Students and Above): 700 yen
- Elementary and Middle School Students: 200 yen
- Yokohama City Residents Age 65 and Over (with Hama-tomo Card): 200 yen
*Group discounts and annual passes are also available. Please check the official website for details.
Access Methods
Address: 58-1 Honmoku Sannotani, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access by Train and Bus
- From JR Negishi Station
Take Yokohama City Bus routes 58, 99, or 101 bound for “Honmoku” for approximately 10 minutes, get off at “Honmoku Sankeien-mae,” and walk 5 minutes
- From Yokohama Station
Take Yokohama City Bus routes 8 or 148 bound for “Honmoku Depot” for approximately 35 minutes, get off at “Honmoku Sankeien-mae,” and walk 5 minutes
- From Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minato Mirai Line)
Take Yokohama City Bus routes 8 or 148 bound for “Honmoku Depot” for approximately 15 minutes, get off at “Honmoku Sankeien-mae,” and walk 5 minutes
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Honmoku Wharf Exit” on Shuto Expressway Wangan Line
- Paid parking available (first 2 hours: 500 yen; 30 minutes thereafter: 100 yen; daily maximum: 1,000 yen)
*Parking may reach capacity during New Year’s, Plum Viewing Festival, evening cherry blossom viewing periods, etc.
Notes on Use
- Pets are not allowed in the garden (except guide dogs and service dogs)
- Use of tripods and monopods for photography requires consideration not to disturb other visitors
- Drone use is prohibited
- Food and beverages may only be consumed in designated areas
- Entry to building interiors is normally restricted, though special viewings are held for limited periods
Event Information at Sankeien Garden
Sankeien Garden hosts seasonal events throughout the year. Here are the major events.
Annual Major Events
Plum Viewing Festival (February to March)
Held during peak plum season, featuring outdoor tea ceremonies and musical performances.
Evening Cherry Blossom Viewing (late March to early April)
Nighttime opening allows visitors to enjoy illuminated cherry blossoms and ancient structures.
Early Morning Lotus Viewing Festival (mid-July to early August)
The garden opens at 6 a.m., allowing lotus flower appreciation in the early morning.
Moon Viewing Festival (September)
Nighttime opening is held during mid-autumn festival season to enjoy moon viewing.
Autumn Foliage Walking Path Opening (late November to mid-December)
The walking path beyond Choshuukaku opens for special viewing of spectacular autumn foliage.
Rinshunkaku Special Viewings
The normally closed interior of Rinshunkaku is opened several times annually.
Event dates and details may change depending on the period, so it is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Recommended Spots Around Sankeien Garden
When visiting Sankeien Garden, you can also enjoy nearby spots. The Honmoku area and Yokohama Harbor surroundings feature numerous appealing tourist destinations.
Yokohama Bay Bridge
A suspension bridge opening as a symbol of Yokohama Harbor in 1989. Spanning 860 meters in length, it features beautiful illuminated nighttime views. Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Sankeien Garden, it offers scenic views befitting Yokohama’s harbor town character.
Yokohama Port Symbol Tower
A 58.5-meter-high observation tower at Honmoku Wharf. The observation lounge overlooks Yokohama Harbor, offering views of Yokohama Bay Bridge, Minato Mirai, Mount Fuji, and more. Located approximately 10 minutes by car from Sankeien Garden with good accessibility. Free admission is an added benefit.
Honmoku Mountaintop Park
Located on the north side of Sankeien Garden, this park ranks among Yokohama’s premier viewing spots. On clear days, visitors can see Mount Fuji and the Tanzawa Mountains. Walking trails are well-maintained, making it ideal to visit alongside Sankeien Garden.
Negishi Forest Park
A park developed on the site of Japan’s first Western-style racetrack. Featuring expansive grass lawns, it attracts picnickers and joggers. Known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, it draws many flower viewing enthusiasts in spring.
Yokohama Chinatown
Located approximately 20 minutes by car or 30 minutes by train and bus from Sankeien Garden, this is Japan’s largest Chinatown. With over 500 Chinese restaurants and gift shops, it offers an atmosphere rich in foreign atmosphere. A course enjoying Japanese culture at Sankeien Garden followed by dining at Chinatown is popular.
Recommended Dining Around Sankeien Garden
Spots worth visiting before or after Sankeien Garden are available in the surrounding area.
Garden Tea Shop “Taishunkken”
A tea shop within the garden where visitors can enjoy matcha green tea, Japanese sweets, and light meals. Sipping tea while viewing the garden is particularly special.
MOON Cafe (Honmoku Area)
A stylish cafe in the Honmoku area. Self-roasted coffee and handmade sweets are popular, making it ideal for relaxing after exploring Sankeien Garden. The calm atmosphere allows for unhurried time.
Honmoku-tei (Chinese Cuisine)
A Chinese restaurant long beloved in Honmoku. Authentic Chinese cuisine is available at reasonable prices, with lunch set menus being abundant.
Seafood Restaurants Around Yokohama Harbor
Numerous restaurants using fresh seafood dot the Yokohama Harbor area. Stopping on the way back from Sankeien Garden to enjoy local seafood is recommended.
Enjoying Sankeien Garden | Editorial Recommendations
Enjoying Early Morning Silence
The early opening hours attract relatively few visitors, allowing full appreciation of the quiet Japanese garden atmosphere. The early morning lotus viewing period particularly shines, opening at 6 a.m. and allowing enjoyment of lotus flowers in crisp morning air.
Participating in Volunteer Guide Tours
Free volunteer guide tours are available at Sankeien Garden (check availability in advance). Detailed explanations of building history and highlights provide deeper understanding of Sankeien Garden. Tours require approximately one hour.
Best Photography Spots
Sankeien Garden is an excellent photography location. Particularly popular are the three-story pagoda combined with seasonal flowers, Rinshunkaku’s water reflections, and autumn foliage around Choshuukaku. Photography during early morning or evening with soft light is recommended.
Annual Pass for Repeat Visits
With different seasonal expressions, Sankeien Garden offers new discoveries on each visit. An annual pass (2,500 yen for adults) pays for itself after four or more visits, making it recommended for local residents and repeat visitors.
Participating in Cultural Events
Tea ceremonies, haiku meetings, concerts, and various cultural events are held at Sankeien Garden. Tea ceremonies held within historic structures are particularly popular, offering valuable opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Clothing and Items to Bring When Visiting Sankeien Garden
Clothing Advice
The garden is expansive, requiring 1-2 hours of walking to see everything. Comfortable walking shoes and easy-to-move-in clothing are recommended. Bring hats or parasols for strong summer sun, and ensure warm clothing for winter.
Packing Checklist
- Camera (for capturing beautiful seasonal landscapes)
- Drinks (especially during summer for heat stroke prevention)
- Rain gear (for periods of unstable weather)
- Picnic blanket (for grass area rest, though locations are limited)
- Binoculars (for bird watching and viewing building details from distance)
Conclusion | Experiencing Traditional Japanese Beauty at Sankeien Garden
Sankeien Garden in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a special place where one businessman’s passion for culture and the essence of Japanese traditional architecture converge. The role of featuring historically important structures including National Important Cultural Properties, natural beauty across four seasons, and serving as a cultural space open to citizens has remained unchanged for over 100 years.
Though located in the international city of Yokohama, stepping into the garden feels like traveling back in time to Kyoto or Kamakura, allowing visitors to experience the essence of traditional Japanese beauty. With plums, cherry blossoms, lotus flowers, and autumn foliage displaying different expressions seasonally, Sankeien Garden offers new discoveries and emotions with each visit.
When visiting Yokohama, be sure to visit Sankeien Garden to experience the treasure trove of Japanese culture left behind by Sankeien Hara. The beautiful landscape created by historic structures and nature will surely become a memorable experience. Before visiting, check the official website for the latest event information and opening hours, and plan seasonal enjoyment accordingly.
