Hama Rikyu (浜 離宮, Hama Rikyū) is a large, attractive landscaped garden in the center of Tokyo. Located along Tokyo Bay, Hama Rikyu features seawater ponds that change with the tides, and a teahouse on an island where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery. The traditionally designed garden is in stark contrast to the skyscrapers of the adjacent Shiodome.
The garden has fulfilled many functions over the centuries. Originally built as residence and duck hunting area of a feudal lord in Tokyo during the Edo period (1603-1867), it later served as a walk and imperial freestanding palace before finally being opened to the public in its present form. Remains of these ancient scrolls can still be seen throughout the garden today, including several reconstructed duck hunting venetian blinds and the remains of an ancient moat and a reconstructed rock face.
Opening hours from 9:00 to 17:00, entrance fee: 300 yen