Built in the early 17th century, Happo-en Garden incorporates a natural stream that feeds the ponds. The teahouse and kaiseki restaurant (kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner) were added in the 19th century, and both are still in operation today. Today, the garden welcomes visitors from around the world for a cup of green tea, served in traditional style. The garden is also often used for weddings. For visitors short on time, guided city tours stop at the garden as part of a multi-site tour of the city.
Happo-en garden is in the Shirokanedai neighborhood in Tokyo. The closest metros are JR Meguro Station and JR Shirokanedai Station. You can also get to the area by bus, car, or taxi. Guided city tours are another great way to visit.
The garden is open year round. Spring Festival (late March/early April), when thousands of cherry blossom trees come into bloom across Tokyo, brings many people to the garden. Weekends are generally the busiest time to visit, especially Saturday afternoons. Plan your visit outside of these times to avoid the crowds.
Close to Happo-en Garden and housed in the former residence of Prince Asaka of Japan, the art deco Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum offers exhibitions about decorative arts and photography and also has a traditional Japanese garden. The building itself is also worthy of note, with interior features by French glassmaker René Lalique.
