The Best Japanese Gardens In London To Visit
The Style Diary is supported by its readers. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on this website. Learn more.If you’re a garden enthusiast, a seeker of Zen, or a London tourist looking for a tranquil escape from the city bustle, you’re in luck!
London hosts some of the most serene and beautifully cultivated Japanese gardens outside of Japan itself.
These gardens promise a slice of Eastern tranquillity amidst the Western whirl.
This blog post explores the best Japanese gardens in London where you can enjoy a peaceful walk, meditate, or simply admire the harmonious blend of nature and meticulous design.
1. Kyoto Garden, Holland Park
Lodged within the larger expanse of Holland Park is the Kyoto Garden, a gorgeous gift by the city of Kyoto to celebrate the Japan Festival in London in 1992.
Designed by eminent Japanese landscape architects, this space is a testament to traditional Japanese gardening styles.
The intricately maintained garden features a koi pond, stone lanterns, and a cascading waterfall, all set among carefully pruned trees and shrubs, you might even be lucky enough to see some peacocks roaming around too!
It’s a popular spot, but the careful design maintains a sense of peace and solitude.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 am - 8 pm.
Location: Holland Park, Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA
2. The Japanese Landscape, Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is adored for its extensive collection of plants from all over the world, but the Japanese Landscape area offers a distinctly Zen experience.
Comprising three garden styles - the Garden of Peace, the Garden of Activity, and the Garden of Harmony - this section illustrates different philosophies of Japanese culture and history.
The Chokushi-Mon, or ‘Gateway of the Imperial Messenger’, is a particularly striking feature, modelled on the Karamon of Nishi Hongan-ji Temple in Kyoto.
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (summer), subject to seasonal changes.
Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Rd, Richmond, TW9 3AE
3. The Japanese Roof Garden, SOAS University of London
Located atop the Brunei Gallery at SOAS University of London, the Japanese Roof Garden is a hidden treasure meant for contemplation and meditation.
Opened in 2001, the garden’s theme is ‘forgiveness’, and it is an embodiment of minimalist beauty with granite, gravel, and bamboo.
It may not have the wow factor like some of the other gardens on the list, but it offers a quieter garden spot—ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30 am – 5:00 pm (Late opening Thursdays to 8:00 pm). The gallery is closed on Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays.
Location: London, WC1E 6BT
4. The Japanese Garden, Peckham Rye Park
The Japanese Garden in Peckham Rye Park is a distinctive and tranquil area within the park, designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics in mind.
Located in South East London, this garden is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.
The garden is beautifully crafted and features many elements common to Japanese gardens including a large pond, pagoda features, carefully sculpted trees, and wisteria-covered pathways.
The layout follows the ‘Stroll Garden’ style, which is designed for the visitors to follow a path around the garden, enabling them to enjoy the changing views and landscapes from various angles.
Opening Hours: From 7:30 am for pedestrians ( closing times change seasonally).
Location: Peckham Rye Park And Common, Straker’s Rd, London, SE15 3UA
5. Fukushima Garden, Holland Park
Snuggled within the cityscape of West London lies the Fukushima Garden, a hidden gem reminiscent of traditional Japanese landscapes.
Originally conceived as a symbol of solidarity following the Fukushima disaster, this tranquil oasis offers a haven for contemplation and relaxation.
Despite its modest size, the Fukushima Garden captivates visitors with its serene atmosphere and carefully curated elements.
Delicate cherry blossom trees, artistically arranged rocks, and winding pathways evoke the essence of Japanese garden design, inviting visitors to escape the urban hustle and bustle.
They have peacocks here too!
Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 am. It closes 30 minutes before dusk.
Location: London, W8 7QU
6. The Japanese Garden, Hammersmith Park
The Japanese Garden at Hammersmith Park was originally created for the Japan-British Exhibition in 1910.
The garden features elements such as a central pond, beautifully carved bridges, and a variety of plants native to Japan.
In spring, the blooming cherry blossoms create a breathtaking spectacle, in summer, the lush greenery provides a cool retreat, in autumn, the foliage turns to stunning hues of red and orange, and in winter, the garden transforms into a beautiful snowscape.
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: London, W12 7HQ
Visiting these Japanese gardens in London offers a journey through the cultural bridge between the UK and Japan, and a chance to immerse yourself in the minimalist beauty characteristic of Japanese garden designs.
Tips For Visiting Japanese Gardens
Here are some helpful tips for planning a visit!
Best Times To Visit: While these gardens are beautiful year-round, consider visiting during the spring for cherry blossom displays or in autumn to see the spectacular colours of the changing leaves – both seasons provide a particularly authentic Japanese experience.
Accessibility: Look up information about the Japanese garden you plan to visit. Check if they have accessible pathways, ramps, or any services for visitors with mobility challenges. Many gardens offer maps online, which can help you plan your route in advance too.
Etiquette: Remember to respect the tranquillity of these spaces and the etiquette of Japanese gardens during your visit. Keep voices low, take your litter with you, and avoid touching or feeding any wildlife.
Mindful Photography: If you’re taking photos, be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the peaceful atmosphere with loud camera noises or intrusive behaviour. Also, respect any signage indicating areas where photography is prohibited.
Cultural Events: Many Japanese gardens host cultural events, such as tea ceremonies, bonsai exhibitions, or traditional music performances. Check the garden’s schedule to see if any events are happening during your visit.
We hope this guide helps you find your piece of Zen in London—or inspires you to incorporate some Japanese garden elements into your own green space.
Happy Japanese garden exploring!
