Tokugawa Garden (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Tokugawa Garden?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Children enter free and enjoy spotting koi and turtles, yet there are no play structures and parents must guard against unfenced water and uneven stone edges.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Children up to junior-high enter at no cost, so they can explore freely.
- Quiet rest areas: Multiple pavilions and benches offer calm spots for families to regroup.
Challenges:
- Uneven stone paths: Stroller use is limited; bring a baby carrier or sturdy shoes for kids.
- No dedicated nursing rooms: Plan to breast-feed or bottle-feed in shaded corners or use the multipurpose toilet.
What is Tokugawa Garden?
- A historical Japanese stroll garden originating from the Owari Tokugawa clan’s feudal residence
- Spring-fed streams meander through expansive ponds, winding stone bridges and meticulously curated plantings
- Traditional tea houses, decorative pavilions and the Guanxian Tower exemplify Edo-period garden architecture
What is so special about Tokugawa Garden for with kids?
- Kids enter free to spot koi and turtles at the pond
- Shaded benches and pavilions are perfect for family picnics
- Seasonal peony, hydrangea and maple displays delight all ages
- Traditional tea house visit adds cultural fun with child-friendly matcha
- Light-up events in spring and autumn extend visiting hours
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a relaxed stroll, a picnic break and seasonal flower viewing without rushing young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Tokugawa Garden
Spot koi and turtles:
Walk to the large pond and find colorful koi and resting turtles on the rocks.
Tip: Bring a camera and crouch by the low bridges for kid-level views.
Garden bench picnic:
Choose a shaded bench near the iris garden or waterfall for snacks.
Tip: Pack easy-to-carry bento boxes and wet wipes; take all trash with you.
Seasonal flower hunt:
Follow paths lined with peonies in April, hydrangeas in June and maples in November.
Tip: Check the garden website for peak bloom updates before your visit.
Tea house visit:
Enter Zuiryutei tea house to see traditional architecture and offer kids a sweet matcha treat.
Tip: Order matcha softly whipped so children can taste the foam without much caffeine.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Tokugawa Garden
- Arrive at opening: Get there by 9:30 AM to avoid crowds and secure prime picnic benches.
- Use combo ticket: Buy the pass for garden, Tokugawa Art Museum and Hōsa Library to save time and money.
Reviews of Tokugawa Garden
Jhoemhie Ann Gail Abundo
Tokugawaen Garden is very peaceful and serene. A perfect escape from the city with beautiful ponds, streams, and seasonal flowers. Well-maintained and calming—highly recommended for a relaxing stroll. I visit there on summer. Will also go back in Autumn and Spring to see different colors!
Shahar BY
Amazing garden! Very esthetic l, well groomed and stunningly designed Japanese garden with waterfalls, pond, reveine and amazing landscapes!
ultimobile
We were lucky today to find the cherry trees in Peak. Blossom we didn’t expect also feeding the beautiful large Koi fish can be fun if you stick your finger in the mouth. They don’t have teeth - and a couple of nice waterfalls.
Telle Marie
Tokugawa Park is a lovely, quaint spot to enjoy both historical landmarks and beautiful views. During our visit, there was a 200 yen fee to access just the lake area, with additional fees depending on which parts of the park you'd like to explore. The weather was pleasant and calm, and we even witnessed a beautiful Japanese wedding taking place at a house by the lake, which appeared to be a recept...
Angela Aprilia
Hands down one of the most beautiful place I've ever visited in my life. At first, I wasn't sure whether I should visit or not since it's winter time, but I didn't regret my choice to go here. I bought a combined ticket with the Tokugawa Art Museum. If you only want to go to the garden, it's quite cheap and only cost you 300 yen. This is a must-visit place if you go to Nagoya.
When is the best time to visit Tokugawa Garden (Nagoya, Japan)?
April: peony festival. Late May–June: umbrella exhibition in the iris garden. Autumn: light-up nights and maple leaves from mid-November. Bring insect repellent in summer and a light jacket in autumn evenings.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult admissions | JPY 600 |
| Picnic snacks | JPY 1,000 |
| Souvenir toys | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,100 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Tokugawa Garden
Address: 1001 Tokugawachō, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 461-0023, Japan
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About Tokugawa Garden
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 52-935-898810 BEST nearby Activities
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