Yokohama English Garden (横浜イングリッシュガーデン) — A Western-style garden in Nishi-ku, Yokohama Get the Yokohama Seaside Gourmet Train Pass — combine transport & dining for a perfect bay area day out
2,000+ rose varieties: One of the largest rose collections in the Kanto region
Rose Festival: Late April to May — peak bloom with spectacular rose tunnels
Autumn roses: Deeper colours and richer scent than spring blooms
Quiet escape: A peaceful alternative to Yokohama's urban attractions
Admission: ¥700–1,800 (seasonal pricing based on bloom intensity)
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (until 17:00 in winter)
Access: Shuttle bus from Yokohama Station West Exit (Wednesdays excepted)
Closed: No regular closing days (check calendar for maintenance)
Overview
Quick Links
Yokohama English Garden is something of a surprise. Tucked away in a residential neighbourhood of Nishi-ku, a 10-minute walk from Yokohama Station's west side, it occupies a site that was originally a housing plaza show garden. What started as a demonstration space for landscaping gradually evolved into one of the Kanto region's most impressive rose gardens, with over 2,000 varieties spread across a meticulously designed English-style landscape.
Unlike the formal Japanese gardens that dominate Kanagawa — Sankeien, Kencho-ji's gardens, Hama Rikyu — the English Garden embraces a different aesthetic: layered, colourful, and designed to change dramatically with each season. The rose tunnels in spring are the headline act, but the garden's real strength is its ability to offer something beautiful from April through November.
For a different kind of garden experience in Yokohama, Sankeien Garden offers a traditional Japanese landscape. The English Garden is best seen as a complement — a place to go when you want colour, fragrance, and the pleasure of a well-designed Western garden.
Introduction: A Rose Lover's Garden
Yokohama English Garden was designed by landscape architect Hidetoshi Kobayashi, who drew on classic English garden principles to create a space that feels intimate despite its size. Winding paths lead through layered plantings, with hidden benches, archways, and small clearings that reward slow exploration.
The garden's identity is defined by roses. They are woven throughout the landscape — climbing over arches, spilling from raised beds, trained into standards and cascading from trellises. The collection includes both classic varieties (David Austin, hybrid teas) and modern cultivars bred specifically for the Japanese climate.
Seasonal Rhythm:
| Season | What's Blooming | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Late April–May | Peak roses — Rose Festival, tunnels in full bloom | Peak season |
| June | Hydrangeas, early summer perennials | Mid-June |
| July–August | Summer roses, daylilies, lavender | Morning |
| September–October | Autumn roses — deeper colour, stronger scent | Late September |
| November | Late autumn colour, berries, foliage | Mid-November |
The Garden Features
Rose Tunnels
The garden's most photographed feature — two long archways covered in climbing roses. In peak bloom (late April to mid-May), the tunnels become a canopy of overlapping flowers in shades of pink, cream, and coral.
Photography Tips for the Tunnels:
- Best time: Early morning (10:00–10:30, just after opening) or late afternoon (16:00–17:00)
- Lens: Wide-angle (16–24mm) for the full tunnel effect; telephoto (70–200mm) for compression shots
- Tripods: Prohibited during regular hours — use a held camera or monopod
- Crowds: Weekday mornings are quietest; weekends see queues for photo spots
Rose Beds
Organised by variety and colour, the main rose beds spread across the garden's central section. Each bed is labelled with the variety name (Japanese and Latin), making it easy to identify favourites for your own garden.
Pergola Walk
A shaded walkway covered in climbing hydrangeas and wisteria, offering a cool break from the open rose beds. The pergola is at its best in June (hydrangeas) and April (wisteria).
Lawn Area
A small open lawn with benches, suitable for resting, reading, or a quiet picnic. Food from the garden cafe can be brought here, but outside food is not encouraged.
Cafe and Shop
The on-site cafe serves light refreshments:
- Coffee and tea sets (¥500–600)
- Seasonal desserts (rose-flavoured ice cream in spring, ¥400)
- Light sandwiches and quiche (¥700–900) The shop sells rose-themed merchandise (soaps, candles, dried flowers) and a small selection of plants.
Admission and Hours
Admission Fees
| Category | Weekday | Weekend/Holiday |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (peak season — late Apr–May) | ¥1,500 | ¥1,800 |
| Adult (mid season — Jun, Sep–Oct) | ¥1,000 | ¥1,200 |
| Adult (low season — Jul–Aug, Nov) | ¥700 | ¥800 |
| Child (4–12, peak) | ¥750 | ¥900 |
| Child (4–12, mid) | ¥500 | ¥600 |
| Child (4–12, low) | ¥400 | ¥400 |
Note: Prices are dynamic — they change based on the current bloom status. The official website always shows the current pricing.
Hours
| Season | Hours | Last Entry |
|---|---|---|
| March–November | 10:00–18:00 | 17:30 |
| December–February | 10:00–17:00 | 16:30 |
Closed: December 29 – January 3 (winter maintenance)
Discounts
- Online advance ticket: ¥100–200 discount per person
- Combo ticket: Discounted entry with tvk Housing Plaza facilities
- Group rate: 20+ people, contact the garden in advance
Access
Shuttle Bus (Recommended)
A free courtesy shuttle bus runs from Yokohama Station West Exit:
Location: West Exit bus stop (near Resona Bank)
Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes
Travel time: ~10 minutes
Operating hours: 10:00–18:00
Note: Does NOT run on Wednesdays (except public holidays)Walking
From Yokohama Station West Exit:
1. Exit the station from the West Exit
2. Walk toward the elevated pedestrian walkway
3. Follow signs toward tvk Housing Plaza
4. Total walk: ~12 minutesBy Car
Address: 6-1 Nishi-hiranumacho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama
Parking: Available at tvk Housing Plaza (shared parking)
Parking fee: ¥300/hour (with garden stamp: 2 hours free)Photography Rules
The garden enforces specific photography rules to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors:
| Item | Regular Hours | Early Morning Sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Handheld cameras | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Smartphones | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Tripods | ❌ Prohibited | ✅ Allowed |
| Monopods | ❌ Prohibited | ✅ Allowed |
| Selfie sticks | ❌ Prohibited | ❌ Prohibited |
| Drones | ❌ Prohibited | ❌ Prohibited |
Early Morning Photography Sessions: Occasionally held during peak rose season. These sessions (typically 8:00–10:00) allow tripods and are quieter. Check the official website for dates and pricing.
Practical Information
What to Bring
Recommended:
- Camera (handheld only during regular hours)
- Sunscreen and hat (limited shade in the rose beds)
- Small cushion or mat (benches can be damp in spring)
- Water bottle (fountain available near the cafe) Provided:
- Garden map (English available)
- Umbrellas (at the entrance, free to borrow)
- Plant labels with names (Japanese and Latin)Etiquette
Do's:
✅ Stay on the paths (do not step into flower beds)
✅ Touch flowers gently when leaning in for photos
✅ Use the hand sanitiser provided at the entrance
✅ Be mindful of other visitors when taking photos
✅ Purchase online tickets in advance during peak season Don'ts:
❌ No tripods or monopods during regular hours
❌ No touching or handling the roses (thorns + damage)
❌ No picnicking on the lawn with outside food
❌ No smoking within the garden
❌ No pets (except service animals)When to Visit
For the fullest bloom: Late April to mid-May
For quieter experience: Weekday mornings (10:00–11:30)
For autumn colour: Late September to October
For fewer crowds + value: July–August (lower admission) Avoid: Weekend afternoons during Rose Festival (extremely crowded)Nearby Attractions
The English Garden can be combined with several other Yokohama destinations:
- Yokohama Station area — shopping and dining (10 min walk)
- Sankeien Garden — traditional Japanese garden (20 min by bus)
- Yokohama Minato Mirai — waterfront attractions (15 min by train)
- Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum — 25 min by train (see our Ramen Museum guide)
- Hakkeijima Sea Paradise — 35 min by train (see our Sea Paradise guide)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the garden worth visiting outside of rose season?
A: Yes. June brings hydrangeas and summer perennials, and the autumn roses (September–October) are often more fragrant than spring blooms. Even in low season (July–August, November), the garden is well-maintained and pleasant.
Q: How long should I plan to spend?
A: 1–2 hours is sufficient for a relaxed visit. Photography enthusiasts may want 2–3 hours.
Q: Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
A: Largely yes. The paths are wide and paved, though some sections have gentle slopes. The rose tunnels are accessible.
Q: Can I buy plants at the garden?
A: Yes. The shop sells a small selection of rose varieties and garden plants. Stock varies by season.
Q: Is the garden suitable for children?
A: Yes, but young children may find 1 hour sufficient. There is no dedicated play area. The open lawn is safe for toddlers to explore.
Q: What's the difference between this and Sankeien Garden?
A: Sankeien is a traditional Japanese garden with historic buildings and a pond. The English Garden is Western-style, focused on roses and seasonal flowers. They complement each other for a full day of garden visiting.
Last Updated: June 4, 2026 Written by: Anaba OffJapan Editorial Team
Share Your Experience
Visited Yokohama English Garden? Favourite rose variety or season? Join our community forum to share your photos and tips!
Anaba OffJapan — Avoid the Crowds, Go Deeper into Japan.
Yokohama English Garden is a reminder that Japan's garden culture extends far beyond the traditional Zen and tea gardens. For rose lovers, photographers, or anyone needing a quiet afternoon surrounded by colour and fragrance, it is one of Yokohama's most underrated attractions.
⏰ Best Time to Visit
Early morning (8–10 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds, perfect for photos Late afternoon (4–6 PM): Beautiful lighting, local life, less crowded than midday
What I Recommend
- Don't rush: Take your time to explore the side streets and hidden spots
- Talk to locals: They often know the best hidden gems that aren't in guidebooks
- Try the local specialties: Each area has its own unique food and souvenirs
Things to Watch Out For
- Some shops close on weekdays or have irregular hours
- Parking can be challenging during peak seasons
- Cash is still king at many smaller establishments
Conclusion
yokohama english garden offers a unique window into the diverse attractions of Kanagawa Prefecture. Whether you're drawn by history, nature, cuisine, or culture, this destination promises an authentic Japanese experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
