Japan | Hyogo | Koko-en Garden

📍Address 〒670-0012 Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji City, Honmachi 68 (West side of Himeji Castle, former samurai residence site) 👉 Koko-en Garden is a Japanese-style garden built in 1992 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Himeji City's municipal government. Located adjacent to Himeji Castle, it transforms the foundation of an old samurai residence into nine themed gardens. ⸻ 🕒Opening Hours • Garden Hours: 09:00–17:00 (Last entry at 16:30) • Extended hours from April 27 to August 31: 09:00–18:00 (Last entry at 17:30) • Closed: December 29 and 30 • Admission: Adults 310 yen, free for elementary school students and younger 👉 Recommended: Purchase the "Himeji Castle + Koko-en Garden Combo Ticket" for adults at 1,040 yen (save 270 yen) ⸻ 🚍Transportation ✅ From "Himeji Station": 1. Walking: • From JR Himeji Station, walk straight along "Otemae Street" for about 15–20 minutes • You can visit Himeji Castle first and then access Koko-en Garden via the west gate, as the two are adjacent 2. Bus/Taxi: • Take a bus from Himeji Station to "Himeji Castle Otemon-mae" bus stop, then walk about 5 minutes • Taxi ride takes approximately 5 minutes ⸻ ✅Reasons to Visit • Combines traditional pond-strolling gardens, Shoin-style architecture, tea rooms, and samurai-style landscaping, showcasing Edo-period garden aesthetics • Features nine themed gardens such as "Residence Garden," "Tea Garden," "Pine Garden," and "Flower Garden," each meticulously designed with distinct seasonal charm • Spring cherry blossoms, early summer hydrangeas, autumn foliage, and winter snow offer unique photography, strolling, and meditation opportunities • Tea room experience available (matcha + wagashi for about 500 yen), can be reserved or joined on-site • Featured in movies and TV dramas, including historical productions like "Shogun Iemitsu and Ninja" and "Kagemusha" ⸻ 📌Recommended Itinerary Suggested itinerary: "Himeji Castle + Koko-en Garden + City Cultural Tour": 1. Himeji Castle (3-minute walk) • Climb the White Heron Castle's main keep to experience the pinnacle of Japanese castle architecture 2. Himeji City Museum of Art (5-minute walk) • A blend of red brick architecture and contemporary art, ideal for art enthusiasts 3. Himeji City Zoo (5-minute walk) • Perfect for family travelers, located near the outer area of Himeji Castle, with affordable admission (Adults 210 yen) 4. Himeji Station Shopping Street (walk or take a bus back) • Shopping and local delicacies like Himeji Anago Rice and Banshu Ramen 5. Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple (extended itinerary) • Famous for autumn foliage and rich history, recommended to visit via cable car (requires about half a day round trip)