Hello to everyone reading our blog!
Today, we’d like to introduce Sankei-en, a strolling-style garden located in Naka Ward, Yokohama, which has also been designated as a nationally recognized Place of Scenic Beauty.

Even while in Yokohama, you can immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese culture at one of the country’s most renowned gardens.
Here, you can admire seasonal flowers and trees while experiencing the history and beauty of traditional architecture up close.

The cherry blossoms and autumn leaves framed by historic buildings are especially breathtaking, drawing countless visitors every year.

Who was Sankei?
Sankei was the art name of Tomitaro Hara, a businessman who served as a financial advisor under the Okuma Cabinet during the Meiji era.
As a tea master, he took the name Sankei, and since he founded this garden, it came to be known as Sankei-en.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on the beauty of this quintessential Japanese garden!
Please enjoy reading to the end.

When it comes to Japanese gardens, the grand gate at the entrance is essential.
This one, called Gomon, originally stood at Saifō-ji Temple near Heian Shrine in Kyoto, built around 1708 (the fifth year of Hōei in the Edo period).
It was later relocated to Sankei-en in the early Taisho era.

Elegant without being ostentatious, its calm presence is a perfect match for couples in traditional attire.
The photo session begins here, at the historic Gomon gate!

The bridges spanning the ponds are also perfect for traditional wedding photos♡

Crossing the historic wooden bridge, you’ll see towering pine trees in the background, along with Sankei-en’s most historic structure—the Three-Storied Pagoda of Old Tōmyō-ji Temple.
This pagoda is actually the oldest Important Cultural Property of its kind in the Kanto region.

As the symbol of Sankei-en, the garden’s layout was carefully designed so that the pagoda can be admired from anywhere within the grounds.

Even from the bridge below, the view is spectacular. Truly convincing!
From the bridge, you can capture timeless shots with Sankei-en’s iconic pagoda in the background.

Sankei-en also features a serene bamboo grove.
The enclosed atmosphere feels so peaceful and mysterious that it almost seems like the world belongs to just the two of you.

The rustling sound of bamboo swaying in the wind and the soft whispers of leaves create a soothing rhythm, helping you relax.
Sunlight filtering through the bamboo casts delicate patterns of shadow on the ground, adding natural beauty to your photos.

As you walk hand in hand, it’s easy to imagine that people from centuries past did the same here.
Shooting in this spot gives you a romantic sense of transcending time♡

Sankei-en is home to a large pond called Ōike.
Its wide expanse, surrounded by lush greenery, is awe-inspiring.

Looking out at the thickly growing trees and fresh green leaves creates a strong sense of unity with nature.
The grand yet tranquil surroundings of Ōike bring a healing quality to your photos in traditional attire.

Now let’s introduce a prop that will make your traditional wedding photos even more charming♡

The most iconic prop for Japanese-style photography is the wagasa (Japanese umbrella), historically used for protection from rain or sunlight.

Simply holding a wagasa instantly elevates the atmosphere of your photos, creating a variety of looks.
You can share one umbrella together for a romantic feel, or each hold a different color for a playful and cute effect (^^).

We offer wagasa rentals for a fee, but there are also special campaigns where you can rent them for free.
If interested, please feel free to consult our staff♪

The paths of Sankei-en are beautifully maintained, surrounded by trees that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Photos of the two of you holding hands, walking, and talking naturally are especially lovely♡

The trees change with the seasons, giving each shoot a unique charm.
Sankei-en, with its blend of everyday tranquility and timeless history, is the perfect match for traditional wedding attire.

〒231-0824 Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City, Naka Ward, Honmoku Sannotani 58-1

Closed: None

Application Fee: Garden photography only, from ¥18,000 (varies by season)

How did you enjoy our introduction to Sankei-en?

Here, you can enjoy seasonal beauty in a spacious garden while capturing timeless pre-wedding photos.
From historic buildings to bridges and the grand Ōike pond, Sankei-en offers a wide variety of backdrops perfect for traditional attire.

The garden is also open to the public, so we recommend visiting for a date afterward to relive your memories.
Since the atmosphere changes dramatically with the seasons, you might also enjoy returning at a different time of year.

We provide free consultation sessions where you can check availability and learn more details, so please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Thank you very much for reading to the end!