Koko-en Garden lies beside Himeji Castle, on the castle's west side. It is a set of nine walled gardens, each laid out in an Edo-period style, covering about 3.5 hectares. The gardens stand on the former residence of a feudal lord and nearby samurai homes. Paths lead through gates and over stone bridges past koi ponds and small waterfalls. From several points, the castle towers rise above pines and maples. The Souju-an tea house serves matcha with a seasonal sweet.
From feudal residence to garden
Koko-en was built on the former west residence of the feudal lord who ruled from Himeji Castle, along with the samurai homes around it. It opened in 1992 to mark the 100th anniversary of Himeji becoming a city.
Archaeological finds from the site shaped the design. The gardens follow the outline of the old residence and the walled streets that ran between the samurai houses. The grounds cover about 3.5 hectares.
The nine gardens
Each gate or fence you pass through leads into another garden, and each one follows a different Edo-period style. The largest is the Garden of the Lord's Residence, which has a pond with a waterfall and hundreds of carp.
Other areas have bamboo groves, pine trees, plum and cherry trees, and stone bridges over small streams. Bonsai and flowering plants are among the plantings. Paths run over stepping stones and through wooden gates, and the bamboo and pine areas have quiet corners where you can sit by the water.
Views of the castle
The garden was laid out to take in Himeji Castle. From several points, the castle's white towers rise above the trees, framed by pines and maples.
In spring, cherry blossoms are the other main draw. At night, the trees are lit during a sakura night viewing event, which is held for a limited period.
Tea at Souju-an
The Souju-an tea house looks out over a private garden view. Visitors sit on tatami and are served matcha with a seasonal sweet for a small fee.
Tea ceremonies are offered earlier in the day, so plan your visit around that. The tea house closes before the garden does.
Summer afternoons are hot. Bring an umbrella or parasol if you visit in the warmer months.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, the garden charges admission. A combined ticket with Himeji Castle is sold at the castle entrance and adds only a small amount to the castle ticket.
Can you see Himeji Castle from the garden?
Yes. From several points inside the garden, the white towers of Himeji Castle rise above the pines and maples.
Is Koko-en Garden wheelchair accessible?
The garden lists a wheelchair accessible entrance, accessible seating and an accessible parking lot.
Can you eat inside the gardens?
Outside food is not allowed inside. You can have matcha and a seasonal sweet at the Souju-an tea house.
When is the garden most colorful?
Autumn is the strongest season for color, from mid-November to early December. In spring, cherry blossoms are the main attraction.
