The pond and wooden bridge at Kiyosumi Gardens are visible in the image

※uploaded in April, 2025

Kiyosumi Gardens is a metropolitan Japanese garden located in the Kiyosumi area of Koto city. It is designed in the strolling pond and forest style (kaiyu-shiki rinsen teien) which centers around a pond, artificial hills, and dry landscape features. The Kiyosumi area is also home to museums and renowned temples and shrines, making it a place that can satisfy your intellectual curiosity beyond just the garden itself. Originally purchased and developed by Yataro Iwasaki, the founder of the Mitsubishi conglomerate, Kiyosumi Gardens offers a variety of attractions. Here are some of its highlights:

The pond and trees at Kiyosumi Gardens are visible in the image.

・Pond (Sensui): The central pond is the heart of the garden, featuring three small islands. Traditional sukiya-zukuri buildings, including a teahouse, are reflected on the water’s surface, enhancing the pond’s beauty. Turtles and birds inhabit the pond area, so spotting these creatures quietly resting is one of the joys of visiting.

 ・Stepping Stones (Isowatari): Along the pond’s edge are stepping stones, allowing visitors to walk across and enjoy the shifting scenery from different viewpoints.

The stepping stones (wataishi) at Kiyosumi Gardens are visible in the image

・Famous Stones (Meiseki): The Iwasaki family once collected notable stones from across Japan and arranged them throughout the garden. These stones can be appreciated either individually or as part of the overall landscape. Enjoy the sculptural beauty of each stone, or consider what larger theme or presence they might represent as part of the whole. Take your time exploring the garden’s diverse and unique stones.

The red-brown famous stone (meishi) within Kiyosumi Gardens is visible in the image

・Mt. Fuji Mound: The tallest artificial hill in the garden is inspired by Mt. Fuji. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surroundings.

 ・Ryotei : This sukiya-zukuri structure extends over the pond and was built in 1909 to host British Field Marshal Kitchener. Having survived both earthquakes and war, the pavilion still exudes a rich, traditional Japanese atmosphere.

The teahouse (ryotei) in Kiyosumi Gardens is visible in the image

▶️Basic Info

・Address: 3-3-9 Kiyosumi, Koto-ku, Tokyo

・Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)

・Admission Fee: 150 JPY(Adults)