As alighting bustling Shinagawa Station, you will discover a secret urban oasis within a five minutes walk. Every corner of the garden had been manicured by gardener Kusuoka Teiji, who had also designed the garden at the royal residence.
In the Takanawa Garden, a former royal estate, there are many historical spots – ideal for deepening your sense of tradition in Takanawa.
Landmarks
Temple dedicated to Kannon Constructed around 14th century. The Statue of Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin, is enshrined inside the hall.
Bell Tower Cast back in the 1656 Edo period at the Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Nara Prefecture. You can ring the bell at the following times, alongside making a wish for your dream or lasting peace. *From March to October: 5.00P.M. *From November to February: 4.00P.M.
Sanmon Gate & Bronze Lantern The Sanmon Gate was relocated from the Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Nara during the same period as the construction of the bell tower. The bronze lantern, on the other hand, was transferred from the mausoleum of the Tokugawa Shogunate during the Edo period.
Note: The Kannon Hall, Bell Tower, and Sanmon Gate are designated tangible cultural properties of Minato City.
Flora of the Japanese Garden
A Tapestry of Seasonal Blooms: Experience the Elegance of ‘Takanawa Time’ Amidst the Breathtaking Japanese Garden.
[March] Cherry Blossom (Photograph depicts ‘Somei Yoshino’): Its graceful form and rich fragrance stand out conspicuously, boasting an explosive popularity befitting the title of a quintessential symbol of cherry blossoms. [April] Japanese Rose: With its association in historical tales and poems, such as the anecdote of Ota Dokan (1432-1486), a Samurai warrior who involved in the construction of original Edo Castle, Yamabuki Japanese Rose has played a significant cultural role throughout the ages.
[May] Azalea: The roots of Tsutsuji Azalea can be traced back to the Asuka period (593-710), as depicted in the ancient anthology Manyoshu. [June] Hydrangea: The gentle sound of raindrops on leafs, like a natural lullaby, accompanies your walk. Witness the harmonious interplay between the lush, moss-covered ground and the blooming hydrangeas.
[July] Mountain Lily: The Mountain Lily’s captivating beauty captivated the hearts of Westerners during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Enthralled by the allure of the Oriental Beauty, Europeans hybridised and improved based on the Mountain Lily, eventually giving rise to the renowned Lily variety, Casablanca. [August] Crape Myrtle: Blooming with vibrant crimson flowers throughout the extensive stretch from summer to autumn, it has earned the fitting moniker of Hundred Days Crimson.
[September] Moss: Why not take a leisurely stroll through the moss-clad Japanese garden and experience the arrival of the bountiful autumn season? [October] Osmanthus: The Osmanthus, known and loved as the Cassia flower in China, is steeped in beautiful legends. It is said that on the moon, there is a grand tree named the Moon Cassia, and its luminous blossoms drench the lunar surface in a golden glow.
[November] Sasanqua: The Camellia sasanqua, with its subtly profound Wabi-sabi aesthetics, exudes a quiet elegance. [December] Japanese Silverleaf: Their unassuming yet exquisite hues quietly adorn the winter garden, adding a touch of simplicity and beauty.
Cherry Blossom Haven: Takanawa
At the Takanawa Japanese Garden, 17 varieties of cherry trees, encompassing approximately 210 species, bloom in resplendent display.
To explore the cherry blossoms in full bloom at the Takanawa Japanese Garden, simply click Discover Sakura in Full Bloom and let the journey begin!
We offer a variety of highlights, including designs featuring black bamboo, harmoniously integrated with historical structures designated as tangible cultural properties of Minato City, and motifs inspired by the changing seasons in our Japanese garden, allowing you to experience the passage of time with every step.