Japan | Kumamoto | Suizenji Jojuen Garden

📍Address 〒862-0956 Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumamoto City, Chuo Ward, Suizenji Park 8-1 👉 Located in the heart of Kumamoto City, this famous tourist spot combines a traditional Japanese garden, a shrine, and tea culture. It is renowned for its landscape inspired by the 53 Stations of the Tokaido. ⸻ 🕒Opening Hours Daily: 08:30–17:00 (Last entry at 16:30) • Open year-round • Admission: Adults 400 yen / Elementary & Middle School Students 200 yen (Cash or e-tickets accepted) • Recommended visit duration: 1–1.5 hours ⸻ 🚍Transportation ✅ From Kumamoto City Center or Kumamoto Station: 1. 🚋 Kumamoto City Tram: • Take the tram to [Suizenji Park Station], then walk about 3 minutes to the entrance. 2. 🚌 Bus: • From Kumamoto Station, take the Kumamoto City Bus for about 20 minutes, get off at "Suizenji Park Entrance" stop, and walk to the park. 3. 🚖 Taxi / Driving: • About a 15-minute drive from Kumamoto Station. • Paid parking is available nearby. ⸻ ✅Why Visit? • Established in the 17th century by Hosokawa Tadatoshi, the feudal lord of Higo Province, it is a prime example of a strolling-style Japanese garden. • The garden features a pond, pine trees, tea houses, stone bridges, and an artificial hill symbolizing Mount Fuji, all arranged to mimic the scenery of the 53 Stations of the Tokaido. • Visitors can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony (matcha experience for about 500 yen), perfectly complementing the garden's serene beauty. • The "Izumi Shrine" within the garden enshrines the ancestors of the Hosokawa family, offering a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. • The garden is picturesque in all seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn foliage and fresh greenery, making it ideal for photography, meditation, and leisurely strolls. ⸻ 📌Suggested Itinerary Pair your visit with a "Kumamoto Culture and History Half-Day to Full-Day Tour": 1. Kumamoto Castle (about 15 minutes by car) • Climb the main keep for panoramic city views and a glimpse into the Sengoku era. 2. Kato Shrine & Kumamoto Castle Park (same area) • Enjoy a stroll around the castle grounds, famous for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and pray for good fortune. 3. Kamitori / Shimotori Shopping Streets (about 10 minutes by car) • Shop and savor Kumamoto ramen, horse meat dishes, and local souvenirs. 4. Kumamoto Contemporary Art Museum or Kumamoto Prefectural Museum • Perfect for art and culture enthusiasts, offering immersive exhibitions. 5. Evening Recommendation: Shinshigai District or Kumamoto Nightlife Bars • Experience local nightlife and izakaya culture.