Genkyuen Garden (Hikone)

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Facts & Figures

Genkyuen Garden is one of the many stunning gardens of Japan. Genkyuen Garden is a Japanese landscape garden that has a beautiful pond situated in the middle, as well as a circular walking trail that is perfect for taking a calming stroll. Built on the grounds of Hikone Castle in 1677, the Genkyuen Garden historically belonged to the feudal lords. As usual, the garden is designed to reflect famous poetic stanzas and scenes. In this case, the Genkyuen Garden is a replica of the Eight Views in Omi or Omi Hakke, which refer to the Chinese Imperial Villa that has the Eight Views of Xiaoxiang.  Buy now and Save >
Since 2004 I have traveled nearly every year to Japan. The rail pass made my life easier to discover all those amazing places in my favorite country. This daimyo garden belonging to the ancient Hikone lords is an Edo-style garden that is located next to a number of other historic sites like the Hikone Castle, as well as the Rakurakuen Palace. The Genkyuen Garden is one of the more famous gardens in the region, which is why it is regarded as one of the most stunning gardens for first-time visitors to experience. The garden has a total of four islands that are scattered all through the pond. The four islands are connected by miniature bridges that offer unparalleled views of the Hikone castle. The pond is surrounded by several wooden buildings that help to add to the charm and appeal of the Genkyuen Garden.

• Genkyuen Garden:
• Opening Hours - 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:30 pm)
• Admission fee - 600 yen (adults), 200 yen (Junior high school student and younger)

History

Genkyuen Garden was created in 1677 within the grounds of the Hikone castle to the northeast. Naooki (1657-1718), who was the 4th Lord of Hikone Castle, ordered the construction of the gardens because he wanted a designated spot where he could entertain visiting dignitaries and guests. The design and the name of the garden were mostly inspired by the gardens of the Chinese emperor of the Tang Period (618 - 907).

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Genkyuen Garden Buildings - Feudal Lords used the wooden buildings as entertainment hotspots for their guests and family. Today, however, the wooden buildings serve great cups of fragrant tea that go for as little as 500 yen in a tea house called Hakkeitei.

Rakurakuen Palace - Immediately next to the garden stands the Rakurakuen Palace that served as the primary residence of the feudal lords and their families.

Hikone Castle - It is listed as a national treasure und the most important historical building within the Shiga Prefecture.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

April

Hikone Castle Cherry Blossom Festival (1st - 20th)
Over 1200 cherry trees are in full bloom during that time and it is a fantastic sight.

November

Hikone Shiro-Matsuri (Hikone’s Castle Festival Parade) (3rd)
In this procession children are dressed in traditional costumes of feudal lords. Over 1000 people participate every year on this event.