If you’re traveling in Tokyo with your kids and need a calm break from the busy city, Happo-en (八芳園) in Meguro is the perfect place to recharge.
It’s a beautiful Japanese garden with ponds, koi fish, bonsai trees, and plenty of open space — a peaceful oasis that both adults and children will love.
It’s mainly a wedding venue, but visitors are welcome to stop by and look around.
What Is Happo-en?
Tucked away in the heart of Tokyo, Happo-en is a traditional Japanese garden and event venue known for its timeless beauty. The name Happo-en means “beautiful from every direction,” and that’s exactly how it feels when you stroll through its perfectly balanced landscape of ponds, bonsai trees, and teahouses.
For generations, the garden’s plants and layout were considered so sacred that not a single tree or stone could be changed. In 2025, Happo-en’s buildings underwent a major renovation — but the garden itself remained untouched, except for one charming update: the addition of baby koi to the pond. Kids will enjoy finding them! They are adorable.
It’s a place where tradition and renewal coexist, offering visitors a glimpse of harmony between nature and modern Japanese culture. But you don’t need to be attending a wedding to enjoy it! The garden is open to the public, and it’s free to enter.
Family tips of Happoen
The stone walkways are not suitable for strollers, but you are welcome to leave them at the corner of the garden and walk freely.
- Koi fish: Kids will be amazed by the colorful carp swimming in the pond. (My kids enjoyed watching them for more than half and hour!)
- Seasonal beauty: Cherry blossoms in spring, green leaves in summer, red maple in autumn — it’s beautiful all year round.
- Photo paradise: Traditional bridges, stone lanterns, and reflections in the pond make stunning family photos.
- Restrooms and baby changing tables are available inside the main building.
- The garden is compact — perfect for a 30–60 minute visit between other Tokyo sights.
- Combine it with a visit to Minato City Local History Museum or a small park next to it, just a short walk away.
It’s also much quieter than most tourist gardens, so you can let your children explore without worry.
Where to Rest at Happoen
In the garden, you will find a Japanese style tea room Mu-an.
You can enjoy Matcha green tea and traditional sweets while overlooking the garden’s koi pond. There are two ways to experience it:
- Teicha (Casual Tea Service) – Enjoy matcha and sweets at table seating. No reservation required.
🕰 Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
💴 1,815 yen per person (tax & service included) - Otemae (Tea Ceremony Experience) – Watch a tea master perform a traditional tea ceremony. Reservation required.
🕰 Fri & Mon – 11:30 AM / 1:00 PM
💴 From 3,630 yen per person (plus room & setup fees)
Muan has a long history — it was originally built by a 19th-century merchant and later moved here by businessman Fusanosuke Kuhara. The room still preserves its elegant wooden ceilings and classic tea tables, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s refined tea culture.
Enjoy a quiet, authentic moment in the heart of Tokyo — a perfect stop after strolling through Happo-en’s serene garden.
Access to Happoen
Location: 1-1-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Shirokanedai Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line / Toei Mita Line) – about 1 minute on foot.
Admission: Free
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer people.
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