APeacefulRetreatExploringHiroshimasSereneGardens

Hiroshima, a city known for its rich history and natural beauty, offers a serene escape from urban life through its meticulously maintained gardens. These gardens, steeped in history and designed with precision, provide a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and appreciation of nature.

Shukkeien Garden: A Historic Oasis

Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, Shukkeien Garden is a premier example of Japanese landscape art. Translating to "shrunken-scenery garden," this historic garden was originally completed in 1620 and designed by Ueda Soko, a renowned tea ceremony master, for the feudal lord of Hiroshima.

Design and Features

Shukkeien Garden is a microcosm of natural formations, featuring miniature valleys, mountains, forests, and tiny rivers and lakes. The garden's central design includes a large pond that weaves through the landscape, with a series of bridges and pathways allowing visitors to explore the many nooks and features of the garden. Each turn offers a new and beautifully composed view, mirroring the diverse landscapes of Japan.

Historical Significance

Despite being severely damaged during the atomic bombing in 1945, Shukkeien Garden has been restored and now serves as a symbol of peace and resilience. It is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, offering visitors a tranquil space to appreciate nature and reflect on history.

Visiting Shukkeien Garden

• Hours of Operation: The garden is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry 30 minutes before closing. It is closed from December 31st to January 3rd for year-end and New Year holidays.
• Entrance Fees: Adults pay 260 yen, high school and university students pay 150 yen, and elementary and junior high school students pay 100 yen.
• Accessibility: The garden is easily accessible, located just a short walk from Hiroshima Station. Hiroshima's efficient public transportation network also offers multiple bus and tram options that stop near the garden.

Sankeien Garden: A Modern Retreat

Located near Hiroshima Airport in the Mihara area of Hiroshima Prefecture, Sankeien Garden is a relatively new addition to the region's landscape. Established in recent times, it offers a traditional Japanese garden experience despite its modern creation.

Features and Design

Sankeien Garden sprawls over a substantial area, featuring various scenic views, including representations of the Seto Inland Sea, mountains, and rural village settings. The garden is designed for strolls and includes a large pond filled with koi carp and areas representing different landscapes, making it a peaceful retreat near the hustle of the airport.

Visiting Sankeien Garden

• Accessibility: While not as centrally located as Shukkeien, Sankeien Garden is still accessible via public transportation or by car. Parking is available, though it can be limited during peak seasons.
• Experience: The garden is ideal for leisurely walks, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. It is also a photographer’s delight, especially during early morning or late afternoon when the light is most favorable.

Momijidani Park: Autumn Splendor

Located on Miyajima Island in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Momijidani Park is renowned for its stunning display of Japanese maple trees. This park is one of Japan's most famous maple leaves valley parks and offers a picturesque landscape marked by a dramatic gradation of autumn colors.

Features and Activities

• Natural Beauty: The park is situated at the base of Mount Misen and near the historic Itsukushima Shrine. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility, particularly noted for its vibrant fall foliage which typically peaks in mid to late November.
• Activities: Visitors can take leisurely walks through the park, cross quaint bridges like the Kokokyo Bridge, and enjoy beautifully arranged sections divided by streams and ponds. Bringing a picnic to relax alongside the ponds or under the shade of cherry trees is also a popular activity.

Visiting Momijidani Park

• Accessibility: The park is accessible via public transportation, including ferries to Miyajima Island. Once on the island, visitors can use local buses or walk to the park.
• Tips: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for stunning pictures. Visitors are encouraged to respect the quiet and reflective nature of the park, especially due to its historical significance related to the atomic bombing.

Enhancing Your Visit

To fully appreciate the serene gardens of Hiroshima, consider the following tips:

• Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour can provide deeper insight into the gardens' history and design, particularly the impact of the atomic bombing on Hiroshima's natural landscape.
• Leisurely Walks: Allocate enough time to enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens, taking in the intricate scenery from various vantage points.
• Picnics: Many visitors enjoy bringing a picnic to relax alongside the ponds or under the shade of cherry trees, particularly in the less crowded areas of the park.
• Respect the Quiet: Remember that these gardens are places of reflection and peace, especially due to their historical significance related to the atomic bombing.