Shukkeien Garden: A Tranquil Oasis in Hiroshima

• Helloこんにちは
  [kon-ni-chi-wa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sa-yo-u-na-ra]
• Yesはい
  [ha-i]
• Noいいえ
  [i-i-e]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [do-u-zo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [a-ri-ga-to-u go-za-i-ma-su]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [su-mi-ma-se-n]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [o-ge-n-ki de-su ka]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [ge-n-ki de-su. a-na-ta wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [e-i-go o-ha-na-se-ma-su ka]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wa-ka-ri-ma-se-n]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [me-n-yu-u o-mi-se-te ku-da-sa-i]
• I don't eat meat肉を食べません
  [ni-ku o-ta-be-ma-se-n]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [kan-pai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [o-kai-kei o-o-ne-ga-i shi-ma-su]

• Help!助けて！
  [ta-su-ke-te]
• Go away!去ってください！
  [sa-t-te ku-da-sa-i]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んでください！
  [ke-i-sa-t o-yon-de ku-da-sa-i]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んでください！
  [i-sha o-yon-de ku-da-sa-i]
• I'm lost道に迷いました
  [mi-chi ni-ma-ya-i-ma-shi-ta]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [gu-a-i ga-wa-ru-i de-su]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです...
  [ka-i-ta-i de-su]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [mi-te-ru da-ke de-su]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [i-ku-ra de-su ka]
• That's too expensive高すぎます
  [ta-ka-su-gi-ma-su]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [ne-da-n o-sa-ge-te mo-ra-e-ma-su ka]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [i-ma na-n-ji de-su ka]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [i-chi-ji de-su]
• Half past (10)十時半です
  [ju-u-ji ha-n de-su]
• Morning朝
  [a-sa]
• Afternoon午後
  [go-go]
• Evening夕方
  [yu-u-ga-ta]
• Yesterday昨日
  [ki-no-o-to]
• Today今日
  [kyo-u]
• Tomorrow明日
  [a-shi-ta]
• 1一
  [i-chi]
• 2二
  [ni]
• 3三
  [san]
• 4四
  [shi]
• 5五
  [go]
• 6六
  [ro-ku]
• 7七
  [na-na]
• 8八
  [ha-chi]
• 9九
  [ku]
• 10十
  [ju-u]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [...wa do-ko de-su ka]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [ju-u-sho wa na-n de-su ka]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [chi-zu de mi-se-te mo-ra-e-ma-su ka]
• When's the next (bus)?次のバスはいつですか？
  [tsu-gi no ba-su wa i-tsu de-su ka]
• A ticket (to ....)切符（...まで）
  [ki-ppu (...ma-de)]

Shukkeien Garden, originally constructed in 1620, was commissioned by the feudal lord Asano Nagaakira. The garden was designed as a place for relaxation and contemplation, embodying the principles of traditional Japanese landscape gardening. Its name, meaning 'shrunken-scenery garden', reflects the garden's design, which aims to capture the beauty of the natural landscape in a miniature form.

During the Edo period, Shukkeien became a central cultural hub in Hiroshima, attracting artists, poets, and scholars. The garden was often used for tea ceremonies and other cultural events, showcasing the refined aesthetics of Japanese garden design. The blend of natural beauty and cultural activities contributed to the garden's reputation as a peaceful retreat and a symbol of the city's artistic heritage.

Shukkeien Garden suffered significant damage during the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The garden's structures were destroyed, and the landscape was heavily altered. However, the resilience of the local community led to efforts to restore the garden in the years following the war. This restoration became a symbol of hope and renewal for the city, reflecting the broader theme of recovery that characterized Hiroshima's post-war reconstruction.

The restoration of Shukkeien was completed in 1951, with careful attention paid to preserving its original design. The garden has since been recognized as a cultural asset, attracting visitors both for its beauty and historical significance. Today, Shukkeien serves as a vital green space in Hiroshima, offering a tranquil escape from the urban environment and hosting various cultural events that reflect both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture.

In the modern era, Shukkeien Garden continues to play an important role in the cultural life of Hiroshima. It is not only a tourist attraction but also a venue for seasonal festivals, art exhibitions, and educational programs about traditional Japanese gardening and culture. The garden’s existence is a testament to Hiroshima's enduring spirit and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing a hopeful future.

Shukkeien Garden is conveniently located in Hiroshima city center. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Hiroshima Tram (Hiroden) to the Shukkeien-mae stop, which is just a short walk from the garden entrance. If you are coming from Hiroshima Station, you can take the Tram Line 1 or Line 2. Alternatively, taxis are readily available at the station and will take about 10 minutes.

Shukkeien Garden is a pedestrian-friendly area, and most of the garden can be explored on foot. For those who wish to venture further, bicycles can be rented at various locations around the city. Public transport, including trams and buses, is efficient and connects to nearby attractions. The Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus is also a good option that stops at key locations in the city.

Hiroshima is generally safe for tourists, including the Shukkeien Garden area. However, as with any urban environment, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep personal belongings secure. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It’s advisable to stay alert, especially in transit areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire and ambulance services in Japan. The nearest hospital, Hiroshima City Medical Center, is accessible from Shukkeien Garden. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor medical issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the garden has many paths. Dress modestly if visiting during religious events. Religion: Do respect the peaceful nature of the garden; refrain from loud conversations. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting locals; a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local snacks from nearby vendors; don’t litter or feed animals in the garden.

To experience Shukkeien Garden like a local, visit early in the morning when the garden is less crowded, allowing for a more tranquil atmosphere. Bring a camera for the stunning seasonal views, particularly during cherry blossom season. Visit the teahouse within the garden for a traditional matcha experience. Engage with local residents, as they often have insights about the garden’s history and significance.