Top 10 gardens in Tokyo where you can drink matcha

In the heart of Tokyo, a stone's throw from the Shimbashi district, Hama-rikyu is one of the vestiges of the Edo period (1603-1868). Once the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, the garden was a favorite place of relaxation for the elite, who enjoyed duck hunting. This heritage lives on in the Nakajima no Ochaya tea house, located in the center of the estate. We love its matcha and wagashi (traditional sweets).

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1-1 Hamarikyuteien, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0046

OPENING HOURS : daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

SITE: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/hama-rikyu/

This is one of Tokyo's oldest gardens. Designed as a strolling garden, it combines Japanese landscapes with Chinese influences, to the delight of visitors. The Rakujutei tea house is renowned for its bucolic setting. It is usually visited in autumn to enjoy a matcha while gazing at the blushing maples.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Chome-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0004

HOURS : daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

SITE: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/koishikawakorakuen/

Literally "the garden of six poems", Rikugien was designed to evoke various landscapes described in classical literature. Enjoyable at any time of year, it's in autumn that you can take full advantage of the Fukiage Chaya tea pavilion. It offers a breathtaking view of the pond where the red leaves are reflected, perfect for enjoying a hot matcha.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 6 Chome-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0021

OPENING HOURS : daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

SITE: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/rikugien/

Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo's Central Park

In the heart of the bustling Shinjuku district, Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the capital's most popular parks. Formerly a feudal estate and then an imperial garden, it was opened to the public after the Second World War. While the park boasts several cafés, including a popular Starbucks, it's the Rakuu-tei tea house that's the place to go if you really love matcha. Our suggestion for a less sweet experience: their sushi assortments - as much a gustatory pleasure as a visual one.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014

OPENING HOURS : daily, 9 a.m.-5.30 p.m., closed Mondays

SITE: https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/index.html

Near Hamamatsuchō, Kyu Shiba Rikyu is one of Tokyo's smallest landscape gardens. Despite its modest size, it offers a comprehensive insight into traditional landscaping techniques. The garden is also distinguished by its tea house, where ceremonies can be attended during certain events held on the property.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Chome-4-1 Kaigan, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0022

OPENING HOURS : daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

SITE: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/kyu-shiba-rikyu/

Kyu-Furukawa surprises with its European rose garden. Built in the early XXᵉ century for the Furukawa family, the garden reflects the period's infatuation with Western style, mixed with very Japanese elements. Among them, its teahouse allows you to enjoy a matcha in a surprising atmosphere.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 1 Chome-27-39 Nishigahara, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0024

OPENING HOURS : daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

SITE: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/kyu-furukawa/

Located in Kokubunji, west of Tokyo, Tonogayato is a traditional garden from the Taisho period (1912-1926). Appreciated for its harmonious landscape of ponds and ancient trees, the garden is also known for its open-air tea pavilion.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ADDRESS: 2 Chome-16 Minamicho, Kokubunji, Tokyo 185-0021

OPENING HOURS : daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m

SITE: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/tonogayato/