About this place
Shukkeien Garden, at 2-11 Kaminobori-cho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, is a daimyo garden constructed in 1620 in the 6th year of Genna by Asano Nagaakira, first lord of Hiroshima Domain, who ordered his chief retainer and tea master Ueda Soko to build his villa garden. The name means 'garden of miniature scenery', inspired by China's West Lake, encapsulating mountain, lake, valley and capital scenery in 40,000 sqm. Central element is Taku-ei Pond with islands, bridges like Koko-kyo and Seifukan tea hall, Meigetsutei, creating a strolling pond garden. The garden was devastated by the atomic bomb on August 6 1945 but restored, with Seifukan rebuilt, now designated National Scenic Beauty. Opening hours March 16-September 15 9:00-18:00, September 16-March 15 9:00-17:00, entry until 30 minutes before closing, closed Dec 29-31. Admission adult 350 yen as revised April 14 2025, university students 150 yen, elementary-high free. Adjacent Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum offers joint ticket. During G7 Summit 2023 partners visited. About 15 minutes walk from Hiroshima Station north or 10 minutes from Shukkeien-mae tram stop. Seasonal events include plum blossom viewing in February, tea ceremony experiences, and moon viewing in autumn, maintaining Edo-period tea culture alive. Garden contains 5000 trees including 20 maple varieties for autumn colors and night illumination in fall. The area is well maintained with parking and toilets. Local cuisine and seasonal events enrich visit. Photography recommended early morning or sunset. Check tide tables and weather forecasts for best experience. Family friendly and accessible for most visitors with moderate walking. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers.