A Historic Japanese Garden "Sankeien" in Yokohama | Pre-Wedding Photography in Japan | WEDDING AVENUE

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A Historic Japanese Garden “Sankeien” in Yokohama

Bride in a pale pink kimono and groom in hakama on a stone path lined with pine trees at Sankeien, a serene photo wedding in Japan

Hello to all our blog readers!

Today, we’re excited to introduce Sankeien Garden, a traditional strolling-style garden located in Naka Ward, Yokohama, and designated as a national scenic spot!

Sankeien is one of Japan’s most renowned gardens where you can experience the charm of traditional Japanese culture right in Yokohama.
With seasonal flowers and trees, and historic architecture all around, you can truly feel the history and beauty of Japan.
In particular, the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, viewed against the backdrop of historic buildings, are breathtaking, drawing crowds of visitors every year.

Sankeien was created by Tomitaro Hara, a businessman who served as a financial advisor to the government during the Meiji era.
As a tea master, he was known by the name “Sankei,” which is how the garden got its name.

Today, we’ll focus on introducing the beautiful features of this symbolic Japanese garden!
We hope you enjoy reading to the end!

1. A Traditional Gate Welcoming You

Groom in hakama and bride in a white embroidered kimono standing under an old wooden temple gate with a tiled roof, Japanese wedding photoshoot

When it comes to Japanese gardens, a magnificent gate at the entrance is a must.
This gate, called the “Gomon,” originally belonged to Saihoji Temple near Heian Shrine in Kyoto, and was built around 1708 (during the Edo period).
It was later relocated to Sankeien at the beginning of the Taisho era.

The gate’s elegant and calm atmosphere perfectly complements traditional wedding attire.
Start your photoshoot here, feeling the history surrounding you!

2. On the Bridge

Couple in kimono walking across a wooden bridge with a historic pagoda rising above the pine trees at Sankeien in Yokohama, wedding photography

Bridges over ponds are a perfect match for traditional wedding shoots♡

Crossing the historic wooden bridge, you’ll see a grand pine tree and the iconic Old Tōmyōji Three-Story Pagoda—the oldest designated cultural property of its kind in the Kanto region.
As the symbol of Sankeien, the garden’s layout was specifically designed so the pagoda can be beautifully viewed from anywhere inside!

Even from the bridge below, the view is impressive. It’s no wonder it’s a must-shoot spot! (・ω・ノ)ノ!

Capture the essence of history with the symbol of Sankeien as your backdrop.

3. Surrounded by Bamboo Forest

Bride in a white kimono and groom in a beige montsuki hakama smiling among sunlit bamboo trees in a Japanese garden, pre-wedding photoshoot

Sankeien also features a bamboo grove.
The atmosphere here is serene and almost mystical, making you feel like you are the only two people in the world.

The gentle sound of bamboo swaying in the wind and the soft rustling of leaves create a deeply calming atmosphere.
Sunlight streaming through the bamboo and the shadows forming patterns on the ground add even more beauty.

Imagining couples from long ago walking hand-in-hand here gives your shoot a timeless, romantic feeling♡

4. A Panoramic View

Back view of the bride in a pink kimono and groom in hakama walking toward a pond under a clear blue sky at Sankeien, kimono wedding photos

Sankeien boasts a large central pond called Ōike.

Standing in the middle of lush greenery, the vast pond and the vibrant surrounding nature are truly overwhelming in their beauty.

Looking at the dense woods and fresh green leaves, you can feel a deep connection to nature!

The slow, peaceful atmosphere around the pond provides a perfect healing setting for your traditional photoshoot(^^♪

5. Enhance the Atmosphere with Accessories♡

Groom in hakama holding a cream wagasa umbrella over the bride in a lilac kimono beside an ornate wooden gate at Sankeien, wedding photography

Here’s a tip to make your shoot even more charming: traditional accessories♡

One of the most iconic items for traditional attire is the wagasa—a Japanese umbrella historically used for protection against rain and sun.

Just holding a wagasa instantly enhances the atmosphere and adds variety to your photos.
You can share a single umbrella for a sweet “together under one umbrella” shot or hold two umbrellas in different colors for an adorable side-by-side photo. (^^)

We offer wagasa rentals for a fee, and sometimes even have free rental campaigns available!
Feel free to ask our staff if you’re interested♡

6. A Path Filled with Nature and History

Bride in a pale pink kimono and groom in beige hakama walking a stone path between pine trees and a long wooden wall, kimono wedding photos

Sankeien’s pathways are beautifully maintained, allowing for warm, intimate photos as you stroll hand-in-hand.

The scenery changes with the seasons, giving each visit a fresh new charm.
With its everyday naturalness paired with historical depth, Sankeien is a perfect match for traditional wedding shoots.

Basic Information about Sankeien Garden

Bride in a white kimono and groom in hakama on a small wooden bridge before a carved Japanese gate in a green garden, pre-wedding photoshoot

Address: 58-1 Honmoku Sannotani, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0824, Japan

Closed Days: Open year-round

Photography Permit Fee (Garden Only): From ¥18,000 (varies by season)

In Conclusion

Couple in kimono leaning forehead to forehead beside a wide pond with the old pagoda on the far hill at Sankeien in Yokohama, photo wedding

What did you think about our introduction to Sankeien Garden?

It’s a place where you can enjoy seasonal beauty while capturing your special moments!
Historic buildings, iconic bridges, and a grand pond make for unforgettable traditional wedding photos.

Since the garden is open to the public, it’s also a wonderful place to revisit for a date and relive your memories(^^)/
The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, so visiting again at a different time of year is highly recommended.

We offer free consultation sessions to check venue availability and provide detailed information, so please feel free to contact us anytime.

Thank you so much for reading to the end!

Groom in a beige montsuki hakama and bride in a white embroidered kimono smiling under a wooden gate at Sankeien, Japanese wedding photoshoot
Bride in a lilac kimono holding a small bouquet and laughing with the groom in hakama under pine trees, a natural pre-wedding photoshoot in Japan
Bride in a white floral kimono touching foreheads with the groom among bamboo in a Yokohama Japanese garden, intimate kimono wedding photos
Side profile of the couple in kimono and hakama gazing at each other by a calm garden pond under a blue sky at Sankeien, wedding photography