Tokyo Heritage Gardens: From the Shogunate to modern Japan

Discover a peaceful side of Tokyo on this guided walking tour of three historic gardens. Visit Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden, one of the oldest daimyo gardens in the city, and see traditional Japanese landscaping that has influenced garden design for centuries. Explore Hama-rikyu Gardens, a former seaside retreat of the Tokugawa shogunate, featuring a unique tidal pond connected to Tokyo Bay. End the tour at Kiyosumi Gardens, famous for its carefully arranged stones collected from across Japan. Learn about the evolution of Japanese garden aesthetics from the Edo period to modern times as you stroll through these serene landscapes.

This tour offers a calm escape from the busy city streets and a chance to appreciate Japan’s cultural heritage. Each garden showcases unique elements, from ponds and teahouses to historic stone arrangements and seasonal flowers. The guided walk helps you understand the history and symbolism behind each design, enriching your experience of Tokyo beyond its skyscrapers and neon lights. Please note that garden entrance fees are not included in the tour price and must be paid on-site by each visitor. Admission is JPY 150 for Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden, JPY 300 for Hama-rikyu Gardens, and JPY 150 for Kiyosumi Gardens.