Hiroshima city — Shukkeien

Shukkeien Garden (縮景園) is a historic Japanese garden in Hiroshima City, known for its serene beauty and traditional design. The name “Shukkeien” translates to “shrunken-scenery garden,” as the garden represents a miniature landscape featuring valleys, mountains, rivers, and forests. It offers a tranquil retreat in the bustling city, ideal for experiencing traditional Japanese aesthetics and seasonal beauty.

Overview

• Name: Shukkeien Garden (縮景園)
• Location: 2-11 Kaminobori-cho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
• Established: 1620 (Edo Period).
• Founder: Constructed by Ueda Soko, a renowned tea master, for Asano Nagaakira, the feudal lord of Hiroshima.

 

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Features

1. Traditional Japanese Garden Design:
   • The garden’s layout follows the borrowed scenery (shakkei) technique, creating the illusion of expansive landscapes within a compact space.
   • A large pond in the center represents the sea, surrounded by miniaturized mountains, valleys, and islands.
2. Walking Paths:
   • A circular path (kaiyu-style) guides visitors around the garden, offering different perspectives of its landscapes.
   • Elegant stone bridges, teahouses, and pavilions are scattered along the trail.
3. Seasonal Beauty:
   • Spring: Vibrant cherry blossoms and azaleas.
   • Summer: Lush greenery and lotus flowers.
   • Autumn: Stunning maple foliage with red and gold hues.
   • Winter: Peaceful snow-covered scenery.
4. Tea Houses:
   • Traditional tea houses offer spaces for rest and contemplation, where visitors can enjoy the views and partake in tea ceremonies.
5. Historical Preservation:
   • Damaged during the atomic bombing in 1945, the garden has been meticulously restored to reflect its original design.

 

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Visitor Information

• Operating Hours:
  • March to October: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
  • November to February: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
• Admission Fees:
  • Adults: 260 yen.
  • High school and university students: 150 yen.
  • Elementary and middle school students: 100 yen.
  • Discounts available for groups.
• Guided Tours:
  • Occasionally offered in Japanese, with multilingual pamphlets available for self-guided exploration.

 

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Accessibility

• Location:
  • Near Hiroshima Castle and Hiroshima Museum of Art, making it easy to visit multiple attractions.
• Transportation:
  • By Tram: A 10-minute walk from Shukkeien-mae Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway.
  • By Bus: Accessible via the Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus.
  • By Train: A 15-minute walk from Hiroshima Station.
• Parking: Limited parking nearby; public transportation is recommended.

 

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Highlights

1. Koko-kyo Bridge:
   • A picturesque arched bridge spanning the central pond, often photographed for its reflections.
2. Scenic Tea Houses:
   • Seifukan Tea House provides a chance to enjoy traditional matcha while overlooking the garden.
3. Historical Significance:
   • Represents Hiroshima’s cultural heritage and the resilience of its people, having been restored post-WWII.
4. Floral Festivals:
   • Seasonal events celebrate blossoms, especially during spring and autumn.

 

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Nearby Attractions

1. Hiroshima Castle: A reconstructed feudal-era castle within walking distance.
2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: About a 20-minute tram ride away.
3. Hiroshima Museum of Art: Features a collection of Western and Japanese works.

Tips for Visitors

1. Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and softer lighting.
2. Seasonal Focus: Check for cherry blossom or autumn foliage timings for the best views.
3. Photography: Bring a camera for picturesque scenes, especially reflections in the pond.
4. Combine Visits: Plan a day exploring nearby cultural and historical landmarks.