About Urakuen Garden
Constructed in the early Edo period (1603-1868) by Naruse Masatoshi, a feudal lord, Urakuen Garden is an oasis of tranquility in the bustling city of Inuyama. The garden is based on the principles of wabi-sabi, a Japanese aesthetic that embraces beauty in imperfection and impermanence.
As you enter Urakuen, lush greenery unfolds before you with meticulously sculpted trees casting dappled shadows on winding paths. A serene pond reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of harmony and balance whilst stepping stones guide your exploration, inviting you to discover hidden nooks.
Urakuen’s design philosophy emphasizes borrowed scenery. By cleverly incorporating elements of the surrounding landscape, the garden feels expansive and boundless. Mount Inuyama serves as a dramatic backdrop, while the nearby Kiso River contributes a sense of dynamism with its gentle flow.
Jo-an, said to be one of the finest tea houses in Japan, sits within the garden. This designated National Treasure offers visitors the chance to take part in a traditional tea ceremony whilst immersing themselves in the tranquility of the space and appreciating the meticulous details of the architecture.
Directions to Urakuen Garden
From Inuyama Station:
- Take the Meitetsu Inuyama Line from Inuyama Station bound for Inuyama Yuenchi (amusement park).
- Get off at Inuyama Yuenchi Station (around 5 minutes).
- From Inuyama Yuenchi Station, Urakuen Garden is a pleasant 15-minute walk along the Kiso River.
Travel Tip: If you plan to explore other sights in Inuyama, consider purchasing a Meitetsu Inuyama One-Day Pass. This pass provides unlimited rides on the Meitetsu Inuyama Line for a day, including the ride between Inuyama Station and Inuyama Yuenchi Station.
Urakuen Garden Opening Times and Cost
Opening Times:
- Urakuen Garden is generally open year-round (Closed on Wednesdays).
- Opening hours:
- 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last Admission: 4:30 PM)
It’s recommended to double-check the opening hours before your visit. You can find the latest information on the official website (https://www.meitetsu.co.jp/urakuen/).
Cost:
- Adults: ¥1,200 (around $8 USD)
- Children: ¥600 (around $4 USD)
The tea service at Jo-an teahouse is separate from the garden entrance fee. This is priced at ¥600 (around $4 USD) per serving.
Things to do near Urakuen Garden
“Joan in Urakuen, Gomonsaki Inuyama Inuyama City 2023” by Tomio344456 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. “2014-01-04 10.34.18” by Yuya Tamai is licensed under CC BY 2.0.