Unwind at Shukkeien—A Serene Escape Right Next to the City

Another Time Spreading Through the City

When walking through the heart of Hiroshima, there are moments when you suddenly feel the need to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

For such times, Shukkeien Garden is highly recommended.

Shukkeien is a historic daimyo garden built in 1620 (the 6th year of the Genna era) during the early Edo period by Asano Nagakira, the first lord of the Hiroshima Asano domain, as the garden for his villa. The garden was designed by Ueda Soko, a senior retainer renowned as a tea master, and embodies the philosophy of “condensing the beauty of mountains, rivers, and landscapes into a small garden.” This is said to be the origin of the garden’s name, “Shukkeien.”

To be honest, since it’s a garden located in the heart of the city, I had imagined a somewhat compact space, but the moment I stepped through the gate, that image was quietly overturned.
The instant I set foot inside, I felt as though the air had suddenly become lighter. Although the cityscape should be spreading out all around me, what lies before my eyes is a serene space enveloped in greenery.

The scenery reflected on the water’s surface brings peace to our hearts

As you walk through the grounds, your gaze is drawn to the large pond at the center, known as Takuei-chi. With islands of various sizes floating on its surface and skillfully arranged bridges and tea houses dotted around it, the garden clearly exhibits the characteristics of a traditional strolling pond-and-spring garden.

The sky and trees are perfectly reflected on the water’s surface, creating a scene that looks just like a painting.
What was particularly striking was the moment when there was almost no wind. The water’s surface became as still as a mirror, and many people couldn’t help but stop in their tracks at the sight of the greenery seeming to melt right into the water.

Memorable Scenes Amid the Greenery

Shukkeien’s charm extends far beyond its pond. As you stroll through the garden, you can enjoy picturesque scenes such as small bridges and tea houses.

Particularly striking is the red torii gate standing quietly amidst the greenery. Its vivid red stands out against the soft hues of the foliage, captivating visitors and prompting many to instinctively raise their cameras to capture its beauty.

Furthermore, the garden’s scenery changes with the seasons—from cherry and peach blossoms in spring, to fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and plum and camellia blossoms in winter—offering a unique and moving experience no matter when you visit.

Prayer and Memory

Amid the serene scenery, another aspect that left a lasting impression on me was the history of this place.

Shukkeien Garden was donated by the Asano family to Hiroshima Prefecture in 1940 (Showa 15) and designated a “National Scenic Spot,” but just five years later, in 1945 (Showa 20), it suffered catastrophic damage from the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. Although the buildings and many of the trees within the garden were lost, the foundations of the pond and other elements managed to retain their original form. Subsequently, restoration and maintenance efforts spanned approximately 30 years, bringing the garden back to its current beautiful state.

Within the grounds, there are places dedicated to remembrance and origami cranes placed quietly; the moment you see them, you are strongly reminded that this is not merely a garden, but a space that embodies prayer and memory.
I believe it is the quiet solemnity within its beauty that makes this place so special.

Extend the joy of your trip at Hotel Small World

After spending some leisurely time at Shukkeien Garden, you’ll want to savor that peaceful afterglow. A stay at Hotel Small World is the perfect way to do just that.

Located in the heart of the city yet offering a serene atmosphere where you can relax at your own pace, this hotel harmonizes with the tranquility and nature you experienced at Shukkeien Garden. It’s ideal both as a place to rest between sightseeing excursions and as a base for a journey focused on rejuvenation.

Shukkeien Garden is easily accessible—just a 10-minute ride by streetcar—so you can visit whenever it fits into your travel plans.

Summary

When you feel the need to pause for a moment amidst your busy daily life, Shukkeien Garden is a place that gently welcomes you. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, it offers the perfect opportunity to refresh your spirits.

Why not take some time to relax and enjoy the simple pleasure of simply being there—without needing to do anything special—by combining a visit to Shukkeien Garden with a stay at Hotel Small World?