Hamarikyu Gardens

The Hamarikyu Gardens are one of the most surprising corners of Tokyo: a classic Japanese-style landscape garden of the Edo period nestled among the skyscrapers of the bay. Originally designed as a hunting ground for the Tokugawa shoguns, it today preserves seawater ponds that change with the tide, centuries-old pines and a charming tea house over the water where you can taste matcha with a traditional sweet. The contrast between the serene vegetation and the glass-and-steel skyline of Shiodome is absolutely photogenic. Admission costs only 300 ¥ (150 ¥ for over-65s), which makes it one of the most affordable cultural plans in the city. The garden opens from 9:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 16:30) and closes from 29 to 31 December. The nearest station is Shiodome (Oedo and Yurikamome lines), about a 5-minute walk. Arrive on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds. If you have time, you can combine the visit with a water-bus ride across the bay to Asakusa.