Japanese Garden

On the northern end of Margaret Island, between the Danube’s branches, this garden pairs Japanese-inspired ponds and plantings with a waterfall and Hungarian details. Watch orange koi move through the water, look for turtles basking in the sun, and follow the paths past lotus flowers, dwarf trees and bronze statues. The waterfall was designed by architect Miklós Ybl, and the garden dates to the 1970s. It’s a quiet stop for a slow walk or a rest among the island’s greenery.

Ponds, plants and the waterfall

The garden sits at the northern end of Margaret Island, a green stretch of parkland between the Danube’s branches. It was created in the 1970s, and new plant species have been added over time. Its paths pass ponds, flowering plants and shaded areas, with places to pause along the way.

Orange koi swim through the central pond, where lotus blossoms and bronze statues add detail to the water’s edge. Turtles can also be seen sunning themselves. The waterfall is among the garden’s defining features; architect Miklós Ybl drew up its design.

A quiet stop on Margaret Island

The garden combines Japanese-inspired elements with Hungarian details. It is not a classical Japanese garden, but its ponds, waterfall and carefully arranged planting make it a calm place to take a break from exploring the island.

The surrounding island has walking and cycling routes, meadows and other parkland. The garden’s northern location makes it a natural stop while exploring that end of Margaret Island. In November, the paths are quieter, giving you more room to take in the plants and water at an unhurried pace.