What is Sankeien?
Sankeien (pronounced "Sankei-en") is a large Japanese garden located in Naka Ward, Yokohama.
Covering about 17.5 hectares, it not only offers seasonal natural beauty but also features historic buildings relocated from various parts of Japan.
The garden was created by Tomitaro Hara (art name: Sankei), a businessman and art collector.
His purpose was to pass on traditional Japanese culture to future generations, and Sankeien has become a place where visitors from Japan and abroad can fully experience the charm of Japanese gardens.
How to get there & Transportation
By train
- From Yokohama Station: Take the JR Negishi Line to Negishi Station (about 10 minutes), then take a bus or taxi for about 7 minutes.
- From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Tokaido Line to Yokohama Station (about 25 minutes), then transfer to the JR Negishi Line and get off at Negishi Station.
By bus
- From Yokohama Station East Bus Terminal: Take the Yokohama City Bus bound for "Honmoku Sankeien-mae" (about 35 minutes).
By car
About 5 minutes from the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route "Sankeien Exit."
Parking is available, but weekends and public holidays can be crowded, so using public transport is recommended.
Highlights of Sankeien
Main Garden and Outer Garden
Sankeien is broadly divided into two areas.
- Outer Garden: The publicly open area featuring a beautiful stroll-around pond garden. It’s a great spot for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall.
- Main Garden: An area open during special exhibitions where you can see buildings of higher historical value.
Historic Buildings
There are several buildings in the garden designated as Important Cultural Properties.
- Former Tomyo-ji Three-storied Pagoda: A pagoda relocated from Kyoto and a symbolic landmark of Sankeien.
- Rinshunkaku: A shoin-style structure that represents Edo-period architectural techniques and is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Seasonal Scenery
- Spring: Cherry blossoms and plum blossoms are in full bloom, filling the garden with a festive atmosphere.
- Summer: Lush greenery and refreshing pond views. A firefly viewing event is also held.
- Autumn: The garden is colored by autumn leaves and is especially beautiful at dusk.
- Winter: The snowy garden offers a quiet, tasteful scene.
Special experiences at Sankeien
Matcha experience in a tea house
You can enjoy authentic matcha at Rinshunkaku and other tea houses in the garden.
It’s a special moment to experience traditional Japanese culture up close.
Seasonal events
Sankeien hosts various events throughout the year.
- Spring Cherry Blossom Festival
- Summer Firefly Evenings
- Autumn Foliage Light-up
- New Year Winter Events
Photo spots
The garden has many photogenic spots where you can take pictures with beautiful scenery as a backdrop.
The area around the three-storied pagoda and the ponds is especially popular.
How to enjoy each season
Spring: Cherry blossoms and plum blossoms
Spring is ideal for strolling among the blooming cherry and plum trees.
The entire garden is wrapped in a bright, festive atmosphere.
Summer: Fresh greenery and fireflies
The verdant trees are striking in summer.
The popular "Firefly Evenings" event lets visitors enjoy fireflies in the garden.
Autumn: Foliage and light-up
The garden is beautifully colored by autumn leaves, representing Japan’s autumn scenery.
Nighttime illuminations are held, creating a magical atmosphere.
Winter: Quiet snowy scenery
Winter sees fewer visitors, allowing for a calm walk while feeling the history of the place.
Useful information for travelers
Opening hours & fees
- Opening hours: 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30)
- Admission fee: Adults 900 yen, Children 200 yen
Recommended accommodations
- InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8: A luxury hotel with convenient access to tourist sites.
- Business hotels in Sakuragicho: Affordable and comfortable options for stays.
Language support
Signage is available in English, Chinese, and Korean.
Multilingual brochures can be obtained at the tourist information center.
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Sankeien is a sightseeing spot where you can fully feel Japan’s traditional beauty and history.
It’s easily accessible from central Yokohama and is ideal for those who want to spend a peaceful time in nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sankeien suitable for visitors with children?
A: Yes. The wide garden paths, walking areas, and nature observation activities are popular with children.
Q: Can I eat there?
A: There are teahouses inside the garden where you can enjoy light meals. Picnics with brought-in food are also allowed.
Q: How long does it take to see Sankeien?
A: To see all areas, allow about 2–3 hours; if you only visit the main spots, 1–2 hours is usually enough.
Please enjoy the charm of Sankeien and the special time of experiencing traditional Japanese culture!
