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Keio Mogusaen is a renowned historic garden located in Hino City, Tokyo, with a legacy dating back to the Edo period. Nestled within the lush nature of the Tama Hills, the garden offers a harmonious blend of seasonal flora and traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can experience the essence of Japanese aesthetics through facilities like "Shoren-an" and "Sankyo-an," which evoke the atmosphere of the Edo era.
The history of this garden traces back to the Edo period. It is said that the history began when Jikaku Gencho, a nun, rebuilt "Shoren-ji Temple" in 1716 to commemorate Nobuyasu, the eldest son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The garden preserves many historical elements, such as the "Sho-sho Plum" trees and various monuments dedicated to famous poets. For instance, stone monuments dedicated to the haiku poet Matsuo Basho and the poet Wakayama Bokusui are nestled among the greenery. The area has long served as a cultural hub, with records of famous literati such as Tokutomi Roka and Ota Nanpo visiting this land.
The garden offers breathtaking scenery that changes with every season. A primary highlight is the "Sho-sho Plum," featuring approximately 500 plum trees of 50 much varieties that bloom in spring. In early summer, the vibrant hydrangeas become a major attraction. Autumn also brings stunning foliage, especially around the "Sankyo-an" tea house, where the harmony of autumn leaves, bamboo, and traditional architecture creates a serene landscape. On clear days, the observation deck provides a panoramic view that can reach the Shinjuku skyline, Tokyo Skytree, and even Mount Tsukuba in the far distance.
Each season offers a unique reason to visit. From January to March, you can enjoy the fragrant plum blossoms. In February, Fukujuso (Adonis amurensis) and winter-blooming irises are also at their peak. Around June, the hydrangeas bloom in vivid colors, marking the arrival of early summer. In the autumn months (November to December), the vibrant autumn leaves make it an ideal time to spend a quiet moment at the tea houses. Daytime visits are highly recommended to fully appreciate the intricate colors and details of the natural environment.
Visitors can engage in various traditional Japanese cultural experiences within the garden. The tea houses, "Shoren-an" and "Sankyo-an," are frequently used for tea ceremonies, poetry gatherings (kukai), and art exhibitions. The garden also serves as a beautiful backdrop for photography, capturing the essence of traditional Japanese life. Spending time in this natural setting provides a perfect opportunity to disconnect from daily life and find inner peace.
Keio Mogusaen is surrounded by the rich natural environment of the Tama Hills. The surrounding area features scenic walking paths and a landscape that retains a sense of historical charm. The sounds of nature, such as the Japanese bush warbler in spring or the cuckoo in early summer, highlight the unique and tranquil ecosystem of this region.
As the garden features natural terrain, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please note that there is no on-site parking or bicycle parking, so access via public transportation or taxi is required. Bringing small animals/pets is prohibited. For commercial photography or professional shoots, please complete the necessary procedures and pay the required fees in advance.