Japan Rankings
Japanese gardens are more than just carefully arranged rocks and plants—they are immersive cultural experiences that reflect centuries of design philosophy, spiritual depth, and a reverence for nature. From tranquil ponds and sculpted pines to sweeping views framed by mountains, these gardens offer a calming escape from the modern world.
Whether you're an art lover, photographer, or slow traveler looking to connect with the soul of Japan, here are the 10 most beautiful Japanese gardens to explore in 2024.
Japanese gardens are designed to embody harmony, balance, and seasonal beauty. They invite quiet reflection and emphasize the art of "borrowing scenery" (shakkei), minimalism, and asymmetry. With each season, these gardens transform dramatically: cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant maple leaves in fall, lotus flowers in summer, and snow-dusted trees in winter.
They are living works of art, perfect for travelers seeking peaceful, meaningful experiences.
兼六園（石川県金沢市）
One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, Kenrokuen is a year-round wonder. From winter snow-laden pines to cherry blossoms in spring and fiery maples in fall, the landscape constantly evolves. The name means "Garden of Six Attributes," representing spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water features, and scenic views.
Access: 15 min bus ride from Kanazawa Station.
後楽園（岡山県）
Located next to Okayama Castle, Korakuen offers a wide, open-style landscape perfect for strolling. It's best known for expansive lawns, lotus ponds, and picturesque bridges. Seasonal events include plum and cherry blossom festivals.
Access: 10 min tram ride or 25 min walk from Okayama Station.
偕楽園（茨城県）
Famous for over 3,000 plum trees, Kairakuen is a must-visit from February to March. It was designed as a public leisure garden during the Edo period and offers hiking trails, bamboo groves, and lake views.
Access: 20 min walk from JR Mito Station.
足立美術館（島根県）
This garden has been ranked No. 1 in Japan for 20 consecutive years by the Journal of Japanese Gardening. The manicured landscapes viewed from within the museum feel like scroll paintings. Seasonal variations are stunning, especially in autumn.
Access: 20 min shuttle bus from Yasugi Station.
Adachi Museum of Art Official Website
栗林公園（香川県高松市）
A hidden gem in Shikoku, Ritsurin offers a vast landscape featuring 1,400 meticulously pruned pine trees, arched bridges, koi ponds, and a backdrop of Mt. Shiun. It’s especially magical during autumn.
Access: 3 min walk from Ritsurin-Koen Station.
Ritsurin Garden Official Website
銀閣寺（京都府）
Part of the Silver Pavilion complex, this Zen garden features a famous sand cone (the "Moon Viewing Platform") and a mossy hillside path that inspires deep contemplation. A classic example of wabi-sabi aesthetics.
Access: 30 min bus ride from Kyoto Station.
修学院離宮（京都）
Accessible only by reservation, this vast estate combines rice fields, tea houses, and large-scale borrowed scenery. Its tiered design offers spectacular mountain views.
Access: 15 min taxi from Shugakuin Station (or guided tour only).
Shugakuin Imperial Villa Official Website
浜離宮恩賜庭園（東京）
Set against Tokyo's skyscrapers, this former shogunal retreat features a tidal pond connected to Tokyo Bay. Seasonal flowers and a traditional tea house on an island make it a peaceful urban oasis.
Access: 7 min walk from Shiodome Station.
Hamarikyu Garden Official Website
由志園（島根県）
A lesser-known treasure, Yushien is especially famous for its peonies, which bloom both outdoors and in greenhouses. Fall and winter light-up events add to its allure.
Access: 25 min bus from Matsue Station.
Yushien Garden Official Website
東福寺（京都府）
Known for its checkerboard moss and stone garden as well as breathtaking autumn foliage, Tofukuji’s temple complex is a serene escape from Kyoto’s busier spots.
Access: 10 min walk from Tofukuji Station.
Tofukuji Temple Official Website
| Garden | Best Season | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Kenrokuen | Winter & Spring | Snow scenes + cherry blossoms |
| Korakuen | Spring | Cherry blossom festivals |
| Kairakuen | Late Winter | Plum blossom season |
| Adachi | Autumn | Framed foliage views |
| Ritsurin | Autumn | Maple leaves + morning mist |
| Ginkakuji | Spring & Fall | Moss and zen tranquility |
| Shugakuin | Autumn | Panoramic borrowed scenery |
| Hamarikyu | Spring | Peony and rape blossoms |
| Yushien | Winter | Illuminated gardens |
| Tofukuji | Autumn | Vibrant red maple canopy |
Japanese gardens are more than sightseeing spots. They are timeless spaces where nature, history, and artistry come together in perfect harmony. Whether you're wandering among blooming cherry trees or sitting silently in a mossy Zen courtyard, each garden promises a memory that lingers long after your trip ends.
If you're looking to slow down and see the beauty of Japan in a new way, these ten gardens are the perfect starting point for your journey.
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