Shukkeien Garden was created by Asano Nagaakira, lord of the Hiroshima Domain, as the garden of his villa beginning in 1620 (Genna 6). It was devastated by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. Restoration began in 1949 and took approximately 30 years to complete, bringing the garden to its present form.
At the center of the garden lies Takuei Pond, home to two islands named Crane Island and Turtle Island that symbolize wishes for longevity. The pond contains brackish water, a mixture of fresh water and seawater, and is inhabited by saltwater fish such as mullet. Wild birds also visit the pond in search of these fish.
Tea rooms, small pavilions, hills, streams, and islands are skillfully arranged around the pond. Paths allow visitors to stroll through the entire grounds, making it a circuit-style garden. Geiki-ho, a hill designed to resemble Mount Fuji, offers panoramic views of the garden.
The garden’s seasonal flowers and trees are another highlight, with cherry and peach blossoms in spring, fresh green foliage in summer, colorful leaves in fall, and plum blossoms and camellias in winter. Nighttime illuminations are also held during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons.
Highlights
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Scenic views that change with each season.
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Nighttime illuminations held in spring and fall.
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Geiki-ho, a hill modeled after Mount Fuji, is a scenic viewpoint overlooking the garden.
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Conveniently located in the city center with easy access.
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