Koko-en Garden

Kōkoen

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Experience a breathtaking traditional Japanese garden with the World Heritage site, Himeji Castle, as its backdrop. Enjoy the beauty of each season.

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Overview

Koko-en Garden is an authentic Japanese garden in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, featuring the World Heritage site, Himeji Castle, as a stunning backdrop. Its history stretches back to the Edo period, when it was created on the site of the west residential area of Himeji Castle's lord, Ikeda Terumasa. Opened in 1992, the garden comprises nine distinct garden areas, each separated by earthen walls, recreating the layout of an Edo-era residence. The "Oyashiki no Niwa" (Lord's Residence Garden) is the largest pond-style strolling garden, borrowing the scenery of the Himeyama primeval forest. Its large pond, home to 250 carp, is said to represent the Seto Inland Sea. The "Cha no Niwa" (Tea Garden) houses Sōjūan, an authentic Sukiya-style teahouse designed by the headmaster of the Ura Senke school of tea ceremony, offering a chance to experience the world of Japanese tea culture. Other distinct gardens include the "Tsukiyama Chiken no Niwa" (Mounded Landscape and Pond Garden), "Matsu no Niwa" (Pine Garden), "Natsuki no Niwa" (Summer Tree Garden), "Nagare no Hira Niwa" (Stream Garden), "Take no Niwa" (Bamboo Garden), and "Hana no Niwa" (Flower Garden), each offering a unique charm. Koko-en’s beauty changes dramatically with the seasons. From cherry blossoms in spring to fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and winter snowscapes, the garden offers a diverse and captivating experience throughout the year. A variety of plants add to the garden's allure, making it a must-see for plant enthusiasts. Koko-en is a highly recommended sightseeing spot where you can fully immerse yourself in history and nature. Be sure to visit!

Shrines and Temples
Japanese Gardens

Basic Information

Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Hyogo

Access: 14-minute walk from Sanyo Himeji Station (Sanyo Electric Railway) 15-minute walk from Himeji Station (JR West Japan) Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Entrance until 4:30 PM, hours may be extended seasonally)

Cld.Days: December 29th & 30th

Fee: General Admission: ¥310 Child Admission: ¥150 Combined Ticket with Himeji Castle: ¥1,050

INFO: Smoking is prohibited throughout the park. Bringing food and drinks is permitted, but eating and drinking alcohol is prohibited. Please refrain from graffiti or damaging buildings and structures. Do not touch trees, flowers, or other plants. Please stay on designated paths and avoid entering grassy areas, moss areas, or restricted zones. Pets such as dogs and cats are not allowed. (Pets may be brought in if they are fully enclosed in a pet carrier and kept under responsible control, ensuring their face is not visible). For pre-wedding photoshoots or portrait photography, prior application is required (filming application form). The operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) is strictly prohibited. Please refrain from any other activities that may disturb other visitors. *Free admission for preschool children. *High school students aged 18 are eligible for the child's fare. Free Admission: ・Residents of Himeji City aged 65 or older. Please present your Himeji City Senior Welfare Discount Card or Senior Citizen's Handbook. ・Individuals with a disability certificate (physical, intellectual, or mental). Please present your disability certificate (physical, intellectual, or mental). (One caregiver is admitted free of charge.) ・Hyogo Culture Pass holders. International students attending universities, graduate schools, junior colleges, technical colleges, vocational schools, Japanese language schools, and high schools in Hyogo Prefecture must present their Hyogo Culture Pass and student ID.