You wouldn’t know it at first but Japan has a compelling other side waiting for you to discover. The country is not just about temples, cherry blossoms, or Shibuya, or maybe the statue of Hachikō. In Japan’s most interesting places like Hiroshima lies a range of zen gardens that nature enthusiasts would highly recommend.
Zen gardens, also known as Japanese rock gardens, are a trip to nature with a twist. They appeal to travelers who prefer carefully controlled settings consisting of raked sands or rocks, as well as elegantly clipped shrubs. Visiting a zen garden is a fantastic way to reduce stress, improve focus, and develop a sense of well-being.
Here are the best zen gardens in Hiroshima!
1. Shukkeien Garden
Translated as “shrunken-scenery garden,” Shukkeien is unique because here, you can see mountains, valleys, and forests represented in mini-forms in the garden’s landscapes. Shukkeien Garden has existed since the early 17th century, just after the completion of the illustrious Hiroshima Castle. Some don’t consider this zen, but others who believe this is a zen garden love how it is a wonderful place for meditation and just admire its beauty. It will remind you of the gardens in Hong Kong.
Hours: 9 AM-5 PM
Address: 2-11 Kaminoboricho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima 730-0014, Japan
2. Shinshoji Zen and Garden Museum
But, if you really want a full-fledged zen garden in Hiroshima, head over to this zen and garden museum. This is the perfect place to engage in various activities and experiences, such as calligraphy, having a bowl of tea, or simply strolling around. Be sure to check out the 17th-century temple relocated here from Shiga Prefecture. Sometimes, you’ll also spot monks walking along the garden’s bridge.
Hours: 9 AM-5 PM
Address: Kamisanna-91 Numakumachō, Fukuyama, Hiroshima 720-0401, Japan
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3. Senseki Garden
Another zen garden that deserves notice in Hiroshima is the Senseki Garden. It’s like visiting Stonehenge in England without really flying to Europe. This is because you can find stones and megaliths here at Senseki Garden, the only one of its kind in Japan. Don’t miss out on the eye-catching cedar by the entrance, as well as the lake, waterfall, peonies, myrtle, and maple features that will surely transport you to your inner peace.
Hours: 9 AM-5 PM
Address: 1589-7 Takayachō Takayahori, Higashihiroshima, Hiroshima 739-2111, Japan
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4. Wakunaga Manji Memorial Garden
One of the must-visit zen gardens in Hiroshima, according to Tripadvisor, is also a tranquil space that stands out from the rest. It showcases a mesmerizing display of plants and flowers that can give you ideas for your own yard. Tourists said it’s more of a park than a garden because of its sheer size.
Hours: 9 AM-5 PM
Address: Kodacho Kamikodachi, Akitakata, Hiroshima 739-1107, Japan
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5. Yoshimizuen
If you are planning to visit this zen garden in Hiroshima, you’ve got to schedule your trip well. This is because this garden is open to the public only every June and November of the year. But it’s worth the wait. In June, you can see the prefectural natural monument, and in November, you can see the beautiful autumn leaves from the Edo period, which ran from the 17 century to the 19th century.
Hours: 9 AM-5 PM
Address: 3410 Kake Kanda, Akiota-cho, Yamagata-gun, Hiroshima 731-3501, Japan
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Others say that Japanese zen gardens are magical gardens, and they really are, especially with how they can uplift your spirits each time you step into these spaces. Though the most popular zen gardens in the country are in Tokyo and Kyoto, and the gardens of this kind are fewer in Hiroshima, each zen garden in this city will surely be memorable, offering unique experiences at every turn.
Looking to dive deeper into Hiroshima’s rich culture and history? Join our local tour guides for our Hiroshima Free Walking Tour!
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