Jeepney Press / Alma Reyes

TRAFFIC

by Alma Reyes

The Old and the New at Hamarikyu Gardens

Though not as frequently flocked by herds of visitors compared to Meiji Jingu garden or Shinjuku Gyoen Park, the Hamarikyu Gardens in the Hamamatsu-cho area still counts as one of Tokyo’s most beautiful traditional gardens. Opened in 1946, this daimyo garden from the Edo period is known for its tidal pond and two duck grounds. Seawater flows into the pond, causing changes in the pond’s appearance based on the ebb and flow of the tide. This is the only garden in Tokyo where seawater from Tokyo Bay actually flows in and out.

The land was originally reclaimed in 1654 by Tsunashige Tokugawa, younger brother of Shogun Iemitsu Tokugawa, so he could build a villa and a garden on the premises. Succeeding generations of the Shogun continued to reside on the property, using it for hunting wild animals and birds of prey. Emperor Meiji of the Meiji Restoration period proclaimed the site as “Hama Palace” or Hamarikyu, and has since then functioned as a state guest house.

Spread over 250,000 square meters of peony gardens, plum groves and fields, the gardens escort the visitor through pretty bridges and charming teahouses. Above all, the panoramic view of Tokyo’s modern skyline (including the Tokyo Tower) encircling the park clearly captures the stark contrast of the old and the new, always reminding us of Japan’s living traditions. Take time to enjoy a quiet stroll at Hamarikyu as autumn begins to approach.

© Alma Reyes