Located in Nagoya, Shirotori Garden is the largest traditional Japanese garden in the Tokai region. Covering approximately 3.7 hectares, the garden is designed around the theme of "the story of water," using streams, waterfalls, ponds, and carefully arranged landscapes to represent the journey of rivers from the mountains of Central Japan to Ise Bay.
Throughout the year, the garden showcases the changing seasons with colorful flowers, fresh greenery, autumn foliage, and winter scenery, while its traditional tea house and cultural events provide further insight into Japanese garden culture.
For visitors looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Shirotori Garden offers an enjoyable place to experience both natural beauty and traditional landscape design.
About Shirotori Garden
- Opened in 1991 as the largest traditional Japanese garden in the Tokai region
- Covers approximately 3.7 hectares
- Designed around the theme of "the story of water"
- Landscapes are inspired by the geography of the Chubu region
- Hosts seasonal events, tea ceremonies, and cultural programmes throughout the year
Shirotori Garden was created to celebrate the landscapes and natural waterways of Central Japan. Rather than recreating a single historic garden, its designers developed an original landscape inspired by the rivers, mountains, and coastline of the Chubu region, creating a garden that reflects both nature and local geography.
Since opening in 1991, the garden has become one of Nagoya's leading green spaces. Its carefully maintained grounds provide visitors with a quieter side of the city, while regular cultural events and seasonal displays encourage repeat visits throughout the year.
Shirotori Garden is a place where traditional Japanese garden design, regional landscapes, and seasonal beauty come together, offering visitors a different perspective on Nagoya beyond its historic landmarks and modern cityscape.
The Story of Water: A Garden Inspired by Central Japan
The defining feature of Shirotori Garden is its unique design concept, known as "the story of water." As visitors follow the garden's paths, they trace the symbolic journey of water flowing from the mountains of Central Japan to the sea.
An artificial hill represents Mt. Ontake, one of the region's highest mountains and the source of many rivers. From there, streams and waterfalls flow through the garden before reaching a large central pond that symbolises Ise Bay. This carefully planned landscape allows visitors to experience the geography of the Chubu region in miniature while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of a traditional Japanese garden.
The garden is also home to Seiu-tei, a traditional tea house where tea ceremonies and cultural events are held throughout the year. With the combination of seasonal flowers, carefully pruned trees, and changing scenery across the four seasons, each visit feels slightly different depending on the time of year.
Touring Shirotori Garden
Shirotori Garden is best explored at a relaxed pace, allowing time to enjoy its walking paths, viewpoints, and seasonal landscapes. While many visitors spend around one to two hours in the garden, those attending a tea ceremony or seasonal event may wish to stay longer.
Main Attractions
- Traditional Japanese Garden: Explore the largest traditional Japanese garden in the Tokai region.
- The Story of Water: Follow a landscape inspired by the rivers, mountains, and coastline of Central Japan.
- Seiu-tei Tea House: Experience traditional tea culture through seasonal ceremonies and events.
- Seasonal Landscapes: Enjoy cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and winter scenery throughout the year.
- Cultural Events: Seasonal illuminations, exhibitions, and traditional performances are held at various times of the year.
Visitor Information
- Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (last admission 16:30)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday) and the Year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission: Adults ¥300, junior high school students and younger free
- Visit time: Approximately 1 to 2 hours
Access
Shirotori Garden is located in southern Nagoya. Visitors travelling from Nagoya Station or Sakae Station can reach the garden by subway. From Atsuta-jingu Nishi Station, the garden is approximately a 10-minute walk. Its location also makes it easy to combine with nearby attractions such as Atsuta Jingu and the Nagoya Port area.
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. We can also arrange for both custom tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions.
For more information, please check our standard charter rates or contact us for a custom trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shirotori Garden known for?
Shirotori Garden is known as the largest traditional Japanese garden in the Tokai region. It is particularly recognised for its "story of water" design, which symbolically recreates the landscapes of Central Japan.
How long should I spend at Shirotori Garden?
Most visitors spend around one to two hours exploring the garden, although those attending tea ceremonies or seasonal events may choose to stay longer.
When is the best time to visit Shirotori Garden?
The garden can be enjoyed throughout the year, with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, autumn foliage, and seasonal illuminations during selected periods.
Can you take part in a tea ceremony at Shirotori Garden?
Yes. Tea ceremonies and other traditional cultural events are held at Seiu-tei throughout the year, although availability varies depending on the schedule.
Is Shirotori Garden worth visiting?
Yes. Its combination of traditional landscape design, seasonal scenery, and regional symbolism makes it one of Nagoya's most distinctive gardens. It is particularly well suited to visitors looking for a quieter experience while exploring the city.
