Urakuen Garden Guide
Urakuen Garden: A Tranquil Oasis of Tea and History Guide
Urakuen Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located near Inuyama Castle. It offers a serene escape from the bustling castle town and provides a glimpse into the world of traditional Japanese tea culture. The garden is meticulously landscaped with ponds, streams, and carefully placed stones, creating a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere. The garden is home to Joan, a teahouse originally built in Kyoto by Oda Uraku, the younger brother of the famous warlord Oda Nobunaga. Oda Uraku was a renowned tea master, and Joan is considered one of the three most important teahouses in Japan. It was moved to Inuyama in 1972 and meticulously reconstructed. The teahouse embodies the principles of wabi-sabi, emphasizing simplicity, naturalness, and imperfection. Visitors can stroll through the garden, admiring the carefully manicured landscapes and the tranquil ponds. A highlight is the opportunity to view Joan teahouse (interior viewing may be restricted). You can also participate in a traditional tea ceremony (reservations may be required and involve an additional fee). While Urakuen Garden itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the nearby castle town offers a variety of local specialties, including Gohei mochi and river fish dishes.
Transportation
From Meitetsu Inuyama Station, it's about a 10-minute walk to Urakuen Garden. It is located near Inuyama Castle, so you can easily visit both attractions in one trip.
Opening Hours
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Ticket Price
1,200 yen (includes admission to the Joan teahouse viewing)