Ōhashi-ke（大橋家庭園）
Historic private garden in Fushimi Inari with Kyoto’s oldest Suikinkutsu
The Ōhashi-ke garden lies quietly in the Fushimi Inari area of southern Kyoto. Although small, it offers a rare feature: Japan’s oldest Suikinkutsu (水琴窟), a hidden water instrument that creates delicate sounds.
A Suikinkutsu is a jar buried under a basin. As water drips through gravel into the jar, it echoes inside, producing soft, bell-like tones. The effect is not only beautiful but also refreshing—especially on Kyoto’s hot summer days. Unsurprisingly, visitors often pause to listen in silence.
When we arrived on a sunny Sunday, Ōhashi-san, the garden’s current owner, welcomed us. His great-grandfather, Ōhashi Jinbei, commissioned the garden in 1913. He chose Ogawa Jihee VII, a legendary Kyoto garden designer. Notably, Jihee’s descendants still maintain the garden today. Each year, the 11th and 12th generations of the family work together for two days with a team of six or seven skilled gardeners. This continuity reflects the garden’s deep connection to tradition.
The garden also features a large number of Japanese stone lanterns. Each one is placed to harmonize with its surroundings. As you walk the paths, you encounter them one by one—some bold and tall, others hidden among the greenery. These elements give the garden a peaceful, layered character.
Although still private, the garden welcomes guests with advance booking. For anyone interested in traditional craftsmanship and garden history, Ōhashi-ke offers a rare experience. It brings together sound, stone, and silence in a truly intimate space.
Read more in our eBook!
Ōhashi-ke Garden Guide
This eBook introduces Ōhashi-ke Garden in Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari neighbourhood, known for its Suikinkutsu and stone lanterns, designed by Ogawa Jihee.
Ideal for garden lovers, design enthusiasts, and anyone seeking Kyoto’s hidden gems.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
From Kyoto station, take the Nara line towards Joyo. Get off at the second stop, Inari. Then walk in north eastern direction to Fukakusa Kaidocho.
Address
- EN: 45-2 Fukakusa Kaidochō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0806
- JP: 〒612-0806 京都府京都市伏見区深草開土町45-2
Opening times
The garden doesn't seem to be open to the public anymore!
- We couldn't varify yet.
- 10:00 – 16:30
- Closed:
- Wednesday, Thursday
- December 26 - January 3
- August 14 - August 16
Admission fee
- Adults: 500 yen
- Elementary School and Junior High School Students: 400 yen
A reservation by telephone 075-641-1346 is necessary (Japanese). The garden is probably not open to the public anymore.
Facilities & Accessibility
- The garden and house are not barrier free.
Best time to visit
- Every time for the Suikinkutsu.
- In spring for green moss and fresh maple leaves.
- End of November - Beginning of December for autumn foliage.
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