Happo-en（八芳園）
A Wedding Garden with Centuries of History
Located in Tokyo’s Shirokanedai district, Happō-en blends timeless natural beauty with elegant modern use. Today, this historic site primarily serves as a picturesque backdrop for traditional Japanese weddings and banquets. Despite its popularity as an event venue, Happō-en welcomes casual visitors as well, offering access to its kaiseki restaurant and tea house, where guests can enjoy a bowl of matcha and seasonal wagashi.
The Japanese garden was originally created in the early 17th century, during the Edo period. It takes advantage of the gentle natural slopes of the old capital and incorporates a natural stream that flows through the grounds. In 1915, industrialist Fusanosuke Kuhara purchased the estate. He redesigned the garden and constructed many of the buildings still standing today.
What truly sets Happō-en apart is its collection of ancient bonsai trees. Many are over 100 years old, and one remarkable specimen is said to be 520 years old. Another highlight is the Suichin (水停)—a waterside arbor that appears to float just above the surface of the pond, inviting quiet reflection.
Although it’s now known for formal occasions, Happō-en remains a delightful place for anyone seeking a peaceful garden stroll in the heart of Tokyo.
Read more in our eBook!
Happō-en Garden Guide
This eBook features Happō-en, a refined garden in central Tokyo, known today for its weddings, ancient bonsai trees, and peaceful teahouse views. Originally designed in the Edo period, the garden was later reshaped by Fusanosuke Kuhara. With centuries of history beneath its trees, Happō-en offers both elegance and tranquility.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
The closest station is Shirokane-dai (白金台). Namboku line and Mita line connect the station to the Yamanote ring line (Meguro station). In Shirokane-dai, take exit No. 2 to get to the garden.
Address
- EN: 〒108-0071 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Shirokanedai 1-1-1
- JP: 〒108-0071 東京都港区白金台1−1−1
Opening times
- Weekdays: 10:00 – 19:00
- Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays: 9:30 – 19:30
- The Happo-en is closed until October 2025.
Admission fee
- Free
Facilities & Accessibility
- Restaurant Kochuan (Japanese food)
- Thrush Cafe
- Tea House in the garden
- Wedding celebrations
- Photography service
- Japanese culture experiences
- The main building is completely barrier-free.
- Staff will assist wheelchair users around the garden (guests of wedding venues, or visitors to the retsaurant and cafe).
- Rental wheelchairs are available for the garden.
Best time to visit
- Visit from End-March to Beginning of April for Cherry Blossoms.
- End of November to Beginning of December for Autumn foliage.
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