Guida
Himachi Park is a municipal urban park located adjacent to the sophisticated Tokyo Midtown complex in Minato, Tokyo. Spanning approximately 1.4 hectares, this park serves as a tranquil retreat where lush greenery and waterfront scenery provide a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. The site holds deep historical significance, as it was once the location of a famous garden known as 'Shimizu-en' during the Edo period. The way the traditional stroll garden and large pond harmonize with the modern cityscape makes it one of Tokyo's most unique and open spaces where nature and urbanity coexist seamlessly.
The history of this location dates back to the Edo period. It was once the site of the Hagi Clan's residence, and its garden, known as 'Shimizu-en,' was a renowned destination offering breathtaking views of the Edo cityscape. The area was also called 'Hinoki-yashiki' due to the abundance of cypress (Hinoki) trees, which eventually gave rise to the current place name, 'Himachi.' During the Meiji era, the site served as a military installation for the 1st Infantry Regiment. Following the war, it underwent various historical transitions, including US military occupation and use by the Ministry of Defense. With the development of Tokyo Midtown in 2007, the area was redeveloped to preserve the essence of the traditional garden while evolving into an open, modern space that integrates perfectly with contemporary urban life.
The greatest charm of the park is the scenic landscape centered around a large pond that occupies nearly half of the grounds. The stroll-style layout around the water evokes the feeling of a traditional Japanese garden. Visitors can also find an 'Azumaya' (gazebo) where you can sit and relax while gazing at the water. For families, the park is exceptionally child-friendly, featuring playground equipment with unique, nature-inspired names: 'SANJIN (God of the Mountain)' slide, 'FUJIN (God of the Wind)' swing, and 'KAIJIN (God of the Sea)' play gym. These facilities provide a safe and engaging environment for children to enjoy the outdoors.
Himachi Park offers different natural expressions depending on the season. The lush greenery surrounding the pond and the way the sky reflects on the water surface provide a sense of calm that makes you forget the city's hustle and bustle. While the park may implement restrictions at night (such as placing chains at entrances to encourage self-restraint), the daytime offers beautiful views with sunlight reflecting off the pond. We recommend visiting during the day for a refreshing stroll between shopping or dining sessions at Tokyo Midtown.
Activities in the park center around a slow-paced, natural stroll. Walking around the pond allows visitors to experience the culture of Japanese garden design in a very tactile way. The playground area is perfect for children to stay active and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you are walking along the water's edge or relaxing on the grass, the park provides a precious space to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with nature.
Directly adjacent to the park is the world-class commercial complex, 'Tokyo Midtown.' This area is home to high-end shops, gourmet restaurants, and art galleries, allowing you to transition from a relaxing nature experience to a sophisticated urban experience seamlessly. The surrounding Minato/Roppongi area is a global hub of Tokyo, offering excellent transportation links and making it an ideal base for international tourists.
Visitors can enjoy the park in casual clothing. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. While the park itself is free and requires no reservation, please follow the rules of any surrounding facilities you may use.