Keitakuen Garden: An Oasis of Tranquility in Osaka
Discover tranquility in Osaka's Keitakuen Garden: a historic Japanese oasis with serene ponds, vibrant flora, and peaceful teahouses.
Keitakuen Garden, nestled within Tennoji Park in Osaka, offers a serene escape from the city's vibrant energy. This traditional Japanese garden, also known as 慶沢園, was once the private sanctuary of the Sumitomo family, wealthy merchants who shaped Osaka's industrial landscape. In 1926, the family donated the garden and their main residence to the city. Today, the former residence houses the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, creating a cultural hub where art and nature intertwine. Designed by Ogawa Jihei VII (1860-1933), also known as Ueji, Keitakuen exemplifies the Chisen-kaiyu-shiki style, a garden with a central pond designed for strolling and contemplation. Jihei was a pioneer of modern Japanese garden design and also created other notable gardens such as Heian Shrine and Maruyama Park in Kyoto. The garden's landscape features a large pond with an island, artificial hills, diverse bridges, stepping stones and carefully arranged paths. Keitakuen is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Over 200 plant species thrive here, offering seasonal delights such as Japanese apricots (February-April), cherry blossoms (March-April), azaleas (April-May), irises (May), water lilies (May-July), and vibrant maple foliage in November. The pond teems with carp, turtles, and various aquatic creatures, while herons and egrets grace the garden with their presence. Visitors can relax in the tea house or waterside pavilion, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. Whether you seek a quiet moment of reflection or a deeper connection with Japanese garden design, Keitakuen offers a refreshing escape.
Local tips
- Visit during different seasons to experience the unique beauty of the garden's flora, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant maple leaves in autumn.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, located in the former Sumitomo family residence, for a complete cultural experience.
- Take advantage of the English and Chinese maps and pamphlets available at the entrance to learn more about the garden's history and design.
- Check the opening hours, as the garden is closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday) and during the New Year holidays.
- Consider purchasing the joint admission ticket for Keitakuen Garden and Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts for a discounted price.
A brief summary to Keitakuen Garden
- Chausuyamacho, 1 内 天王寺公園, Osaka, Chausuyamacho, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063, JP
- +816-6761-1770
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Tennoji Station (JR Loop Line, Midosuji Subway Line, or Tanimachi Subway Line), Keitakuen Garden is a short 5-minute walk. Exit the station and head southwest towards Tennoji Park. The garden entrance is located behind the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, within Tennoji Park. Subway fare from Umeda Station to Tennoji Station is approximately ¥290. A prepaid IC card such as ICOCA can be convenient for accessing train and bus services.
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Walking
If you are already within Tennoji Park or near Tennoji Station, Keitakuen Garden is easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs within Tennoji Park towards the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts. The garden entrance is located to the right of the museum. Walking from Abeno Harukas to Keitakuen Garden takes approximately 15 minutes.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from Tennoji Station. A short taxi ride to Keitakuen Garden from Tennoji Station will cost approximately ¥700-¥900. Note that traffic conditions may affect the final fare. The taxi will drop you off near the entrance of Tennoji Park, from where you can walk to the garden.
