Hidden Wonders of Tonogayato Gardens
Tonogayato Gardens is a serene hillside retreat blending Meiji-era grace with natural charm. Located just a short train ride from central Tokyo in the suburb of Kokubunji, it offers visitors seasonal beauty and peaceful surroundings throughout the year.
Location and Landscape
This hidden green oasis takes advantage of Musashino Plateau’s natural terrain, featuring layered lawns, wooded areas, and water elements. In autumn, the gardens burst into vivid colors, earning the title of an official Place of Scenic Beauty.
Despite its easy access — only a two-minute walk from Kokubunji Station — Tonogayato is quiet and less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy its tranquil paths and picturesque views almost alone.
Historical Background
Tonogayato Gardens originated between 1913 and 1915 as part of a private villa for Eguchi Teijo, a railway executive. In 1929, Koyata Iwasaki, from the Mitsubishi founding family, acquired the property and expanded it into a circular strolling garden.
By 1934, the garden included the Koyo-tei tea house, enhancing its peaceful atmosphere. The Iwasaki family used it as a lush escape from city life. However, by the 1970s, the estate faced the risk of urban redevelopment.
"Visitors are rewarded with an immersion in Japanese garden artistry and a sense of history, all hidden in plain sight on Tokyo's western fringe."
Summary: Tonogayato Gardens offers a blend of Japanese heritage and natural beauty in a peaceful, less-known location close to Tokyo, inviting visitors to experience seasonal tranquility and a historic garden escape.