Amazing garden even in winter! We took the bus using Google Maps and walked for about 10-15 minutes through small roads in a housing estate (nice to see that none of the houses are alike and houses are well-maintained in Japan). There's a small fee for entry and the better half mentioned we'll be here for at least a couple of hours, which is great if you love walking in a peaceful garden. The garden surrounds a large lake and contains historic structures from other parts of Japan. Sometimes you feel like you're on the set of Shogun when exploring one of the old timber houses. The main hall also houses several beautiful pieces of art. We were fortunate to also see a bonsai exhibition at the time of our visit.
Absolutely beautiful garden to visit. The grounds are immaculate and huge. If you go to the viewing platform you can see Mt Fuji in the background. You can also walk around in the Former Yanohara Family Residence which is a gassho-style house.
Sankeien Garden in Yokohama is, without a doubt, the most beautiful, harmonious, and peaceful garden we’ve visited in all of Japan.
From the very first steps inside, you feel how the world slows down — the silence, the thoughtful layout of paths, ponds, bridges, and trees create a sense of deep serenity. It's not just a garden, it's a place where nature and architecture breathe together.
The three-story pagoda rising on the hill adds a majestic presence, visible from many parts of the garden — like a quiet guardian watching over the landscape.
One of the highlights is the old house, steeped in history. You can actually enter and explore it, learning about its past and the lives once lived inside. It's not just a preserved building — it feels alive, as if echoing the voices of centuries.
Every turn of the path reveals a new, picture-perfect scene — reflections on the water, stone lanterns among moss, hidden teahouses… Sankeien is a place you don’t just visit — you experience it, with all your senses.
A truly unforgettable garden that touched our hearts.
Visiting Sankeien Garden was one of the most peaceful and visually stunning experiences I’ve had in Japan. From the moment I stepped in, it felt like I had been transported back in time. The landscape is absolutely beautiful—perfectly maintained ponds, stone bridges, winding paths, and an incredible collection of historic buildings that were relocated from places like Kyoto and Kamakura. The three-story pagoda on the hilltop is especially breathtaking, and I couldn’t stop taking photos of it from different angles.
I went in the spring, and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. The reflection of the sakura in the water, the koi fish swimming lazily below—it was honestly like a scene out of a postcard. I’ve heard it’s just as gorgeous in the fall when the leaves turn fiery red and gold, so I definitely plan to come back then.
What really made the visit special was how quiet and calming it was. Even with other people around, it never felt crowded or noisy. I spent time just sitting by the water and enjoying the stillness, something that’s hard to find in a busy city like Yokohama. There’s also a traditional teahouse where I had a quiet matcha break, which felt like the perfect way to soak in the surroundings.
It’s not right next to a train station, so be ready for a short bus ride or walk, but it’s 100% worth the effort. If you’re looking for a place to slow down, appreciate nature, and feel a deep connection to Japan’s cultural heritage, Sankeien is a must-visit. I’ll be recommending it to everyone I know.
This is a great park. There are shaded areas for sunny days and lot of historical buildings to look at. The walk around the lake is especially pleasant
