Although some may prefer to explore picturesque sights and sceneries in the summer, there’s never really any perfect time to explore a plethora of outdoor experiences. Few are as tranquil and aesthetically pleasing as Japanese gardens, and no matter what time of the year it is, you’re sure to be in awe of such beautiful Japanese landscapes. These serene spaces invite you to escape the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. From traditional Japanese zen gardens to vibrant ponds, wildlife, and all sorts of trees and plants, here are a few must-visit Japanese gardens in London that are perfect for an outdoor retreat.
The Kyoto Garden in Holland Park
Located in Holland Park, the stunning Kyoto Garden was built in celebration of London’s Japan Festival, held in 1992, as a symbol of friendship between Great Britain and Japan. This garden beautifully blends traditional design elements with the natural landscape.
The beautiful Japanese style gardens consist of tranquil waterfalls, calming bodies of water, and plenty of koi carp. Research shows that bodies of water have a calming impact on the human mind, making it a perfect spot to unwind and reflect.
The garden features stone lanterns, a picturesque arched bridge, and carefully curated plantings, including maple trees and vibrant azaleas.Taking a stroll through the Kyoto Gardens will surely soothe the soul, thanks to its tranquil nature and the possibility of seeing the park’s roaming peacocks. It’s a perfect place to wind down, take some pictures, and go for a relaxing walk.
Fukushima Garden
In 2012, the addition of the Fukushima Garden was introduced to Holland Park to “commemorate the heartfelt gratitude of the Japanese people to the British people for their support following the natural disaster that struck Fukushima, Japan on 11 March 2011.”
Walking down the path of the Fukushima Garden shows more picturesque Japanese landscapes, where commemorative plaques inform you of the history and friendship between the people of Japan and the United Kingdom.
Visiting Tips
Holland Park is easily accessible via public transport, and the Kyoto Garden is free to enter. For a tranquil experience, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds are thinner, especially during warmer weather.
Directions
Take the Central line to Holland Park Tube station and walk no more than 10 mins south to Kyoto Gardens.
2. SOAS Japanese Roof Garden
Tucked away atop the Brunei Gallery in a corner of Russell Square, the SOAS Japanese Roof Garden is a tranquil oasis that offers a unique blend of culture, education, and natural beauty. It was designed in 2001 and serves as both a serene retreat for students and a public space where visitors can appreciate traditional Japanese landscaping amidst the cityscape.
Dedicated to forgiveness, the garden is designed with peacefulness and meditation in mind – something to note if you do choose to visit the gardens. The kanji character for Forgiveness is engraved on the garden’s granite water basin, encouraging mindfulness and quiet contemplation among the calming scenery. The garden changes from season to season, allowing visitors to experience the changing colours and textures throughout the year. So while we recommend a summer visit, it’s definitely worth visiting in the colder months, too.
The garden is designed with classic Japanese features, including stone pathways, gravel beds, and carefully arranged plants that embody harmony and balance.The SOAS rooftop garden’s location also offers a bird’s eye view from above. You can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, providing a beautiful backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
SOAS Gallery
The SOAS Japanese Roof Garden also hosts occasional cultural events and workshops, offering a deeper insight into Japanese traditions and horticulture. Not to mention, you can access the garden through the first floor of the SOAS Gallery, so feel free to enjoy the latest exhibitions before you head out to unwind by the rooftop garden!
Visiting Tips
The rooftop garden is open to the public,
It’s Opening Hours are:
Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30am–5:00pm (Late opening Thursdays to 8:00pm).
The garden is closed on Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays.
It’s advisable to check the SOAS website for specific visiting hours. Early morning or late afternoon visits may provide a more peaceful experience, especially on weekdays.
Directions
Take the Piccadilly line to Russell Square Tube Station and walk no more than 5 mins west to SOAS Gallery. The garden can be accessed from the first floor of the gallery, through the exhibition space.
3. Hidden Waterfall and Japanese Garden Island in Regent’s Park
Located within the beautiful Regent’s Park, the Hidden Waterfall and Japanese Garden Island provide a serene escape in the heart of London. It’s called the Hidden Waterfall for a reason – this tranquil spot is perhaps slightly less known than the others. Find the garden by passing through the Jubilee Gate in St. Mary’s Garden, follow the path right, and it should be right ahead of you.
This tiny little island boasts a variety of picturesque sites and thoughtfully designed with authentic Japanese elements, including meticulously pruned trees and ornamental shrubs. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, leading them through a diverse array of flora that captures the essence of a Japanese zen garden. The centrepiece of this garden is the picturesque waterfall, which cascades gracefully into a tranquil pond. You can even walk up the top of the waterfall and look out into the scenery below with all its bridges, greenery, and peaceful sights.
Queen Mary’s Gardens
Consider exploring other areas of Regent’s Park, such as the Queen Mary’s Gardens, to enhance your day out. Queen Mary’s Gardens are most famous for its 12,000 roses, and it boasts several charming little nooks and crannies such as St. John’s Lodge Gardens. Dropping by the other attractions inside Regent Park’s inner circle would make for a day filled with beautiful sights and sceneries that could complete your day.
Visiting Tips
The gardens are open every Monday to Friday, but its hidden nature makes the trip more solitary and peaceful. Thanks to its narrow paths, the Hidden Waterfall and Japanese Garden Island in Regent’s Park doesn’t often have too many visitors. If you’re lucky, you might get the chance to have the whole hidden waterfall and island to yourself!
Directions
Take the Piccadilly line to Baker Street Tube Station and walk no more than 15 mins to the southern part of Regent’s Park Inner Circle.
4. Garden of Peace: Japanese Garden at Hammersmith Park
As the oldest publicly owned Japanese garden in the UK, the Garden of Peace holds a lot of history. Restored by landscape architect Yoshihiko Uchida and Japanese garden expert Saturo Izawa in 2010, the Japanese Garden at Hammersmith Park is a little less formal than other contemporary Japanese gardens found in London. Although it was previously called the Garden of Peace, it was converted into a more traditional British public park and renamed into Hammersmith Park. However, the tranquil Japanese gardens remain for visitors and passersby to bask in the peaceful sights.
The garden was designed with thought and reflection in mind, so it’s a peaceful place that can be enjoyed quietly, reflected in the meandering stepping stone paths and flowing water. Located near the bustling area of White City, Hammersmith Park features a delightful Japanese garden that provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This lesser-known gem is perfect for those who want a quiet day among nature.
Visiting Tips
While Hammersmith Park is less crowded, it’s advisable to visit on weekdays for a more serene experience. The park also offers a children’s playground, making it suitable for family outings.
Directions
Take the Circle and Hammersmith & City line to Wood Lane and walk no more than 10 mins Hammersmith Park.
5. Kew Gardens
Originally built for the 1910 Japanese-British Exhibition, the Japanese Gateway (or Chokushi-Mon) is a beautifully understated replica of the Nishi Hongan-ji temple in Kyoto that can be found in Kew Gardens. If you are interested in these Japanese gardens, you can use their photos to create unique and beautiful souvenir pin badges at PinBadges Co.
The Kew Gardens combine three Japanese garden landscapes:
- Garden of Peace: Similar to a traditional Japanese tea garden, the entrance of the Kew Gardens leads into an area perfect for tranquil meditation.
- Garden of Activity: The garden of activity is where elements of natural landscapes and scenery are represented through slopes, raked gravel, and large rocks.
- Garden of Harmony: The Garden of Harmony joins the first two gardens through stone and rock formations and outcrops, as well as shrubs that line the path.The landscape was designed by Professor Fukuhara of Osaka University.
Bamboo Garden
Another interesting feature of the Kew Gardens is the Bamboo Garden, which houses one of the largest bamboo collections in the UK. This picturesque sight showcases 130 bamboo species from China, Japan, the Himalayas, and the Americas, with grasses meticulously arranged to highlight the variety of forms and leaf shapes. Durable plastic barriers contain the growth of highly invasive species.
Minka House
Between the fronds, you may come across a Minka house. Minka, or “houses of the people,” describe the simple homes of country-dwellers, which were common in Japan until the mid-20th century, and many of these farmhouses have been preserved as historical landmarks. The front of the Kew Garden’s Minka house, which was lived in by the Yonezu family, is surrounded by bushes of sacred bamboo and other Japanese plants, which are said to dispel bad dreams.
6. Temple Gardens at Langley Park (Just outside of London)
Located in the charming Langley Park just outside London, the Temple Gardens offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This serene garden is designed in the style of traditional Japanese gardens, providing visitors with a tranquil escape while showcasing the elegance of Japanese horticulture.
The Temple Gardens are designed to honour the history of the land and its connections to Japanese culture. With carefully chosen plants, flowers, and landscaping features, this garden invites contemplation and peace.
Visiting Tips
The Japanese Garden is free to enter and is located within the larger Peckham Rye Common, making it accessible to all. Spring and autumn are particularly lovely times to visit, as the garden’s seasonal displays are at their peak. Early mornings or weekdays often provide a quieter experience.
Directions
Take the District line all the way to Kew Gardens station and walk no more than 10 mins to the gardens.
7. Japanese Garden in Peckham Rye & Common
Situated within the expansive Peckham Rye Common, the Japanese Garden offers a serene and picturesque escape that reflects the tranquil beauty of traditional Japanese landscaping. Created between 1910 and 1914 after Tokyo presented gifts to London, this hidden gem invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the harmonious elements typical of Japanese gardens.
The Japanese Garden boasts a water garden and an arched stone bridge, picturesque sights that encourage a delightful experience, celebrating the beauty of Japanese gardening traditions while integrating historical significance.
Directions
Take the Overground line all the way to Brockley station. From there you can take the 484 Bus to the Japanese Garden.
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