Serenity in Nature: Genkyuen Garden
Explore Genkyuen Garden in Hikone, a serene escape filled with traditional beauty and stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and culture seekers.
A brief summary to Genkyuen Garden
- 9-3 Konkicho, Hikone, Konkicho, Shiga, 522-0061, JP
- +81749-22-2742
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Genkyuen Garden, located in the historic city of Hikone, offers visitors a serene escape into nature, combining traditional Japanese garden design with stunning views of Hikone Castle. This beautifully landscaped garden features a variety of elements, including meticulously arranged ponds, elegant stone lanterns, and vibrant seasonal flowers that change with the seasons, creating a picturesque setting year-round. As you stroll through the winding paths, take a moment to appreciate the harmonious balance of nature and architecture. The garden is designed to reflect the principles of Japanese aesthetics, emphasizing simplicity, natural beauty, and tranquility. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, perfect for contemplation or relaxation. It is also an ideal spot for photography, with its scenic views and cultural significance. Genkyuen Garden is not just a feast for the eyes; it also serves as a cultural hub, hosting seasonal events and traditional tea ceremonies that allow tourists to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. Whether you are visiting in spring to catch the cherry blossoms or in autumn for the vibrant foliage, each season offers a unique experience. Plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the full beauty of this enchanting garden and capture the essence of Japan’s natural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility before crowds arrive.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, especially during cherry blossom season.
- Check the garden's event calendar for seasonal activities and tea ceremonies.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the garden paths.
- Consider visiting Hikone Castle before or after your trip to the garden for a complete cultural experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from central Wakasa, head south on Route 8 towards Hikone. Continue on Route 8 for approximately 30 kilometers. As you approach Hikone, follow signs for 'Hikone Castle' and 'Genkyuen Garden'. Turn left onto Konkicho Street and drive until you see the entrance to Genkyuen Garden on your right. There is parking available nearby, and it typically costs around 500 yen for a few hours.
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Public Transportation - Train
Start your journey at Wakasa Station. Board the JR Obama Line towards Maibara. After about 30 minutes, transfer at Maibara Station to the JR Tōkaidō Line towards Nagoya. Get off at Hikone Station, which takes another 15 minutes. From Hikone Station, exit and look for the bus stop for the 'Hikone Castle Loop Bus'. Take the bus (approximately 220 yen) that stops at 'Genkyuen Garden'. The garden is just a short walk from the bus stop.
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Public Transportation - Bus
From central Wakasa, take the local bus towards Hikone. The bus ride will take around 40 minutes. Get off at the 'Hikone Castle' stop. From there, you can either walk to Genkyuen Garden, which takes about 15 minutes, or catch the local shuttle bus that runs frequently to various attractions, including Genkyuen Garden. The shuttle bus fare is around 200 yen.
Attractions Nearby to Genkyuen Garden
Landmarks nearby to Genkyuen Garden
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Omi Tourism Board - 近江ツーリズムボード
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Taga Taisha
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Ōmi Observation Deck
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Saimyoji
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Kongorinji
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Azuchi-eki Station Tourist Information Centre
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Suigo-no-sato Maruyama
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Omi-hachiman Association of Promoting Tourism & Local Products
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Haku'un-kan (White Cloud House)
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Hotel New Omi
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Ōmihachiman Station
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Comfort Inn Omihachiman
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Omi-Maiko
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Omikageyama
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Kumagawa juku