Hidden Wonders: Tonogayato Gardens in Kokubunji
Tonogayato Gardens is a serene hillside retreat blending Meiji-era elegance with natural charm. Located just a short train ride from downtown Tokyo, this hidden green oasis sits in the suburb of Kokubunji.
The garden thoughtfully uses the natural slopes of the Musashino Plateau to create a layered landscape of lawns, woods, and water features. Each season offers its own beauty, with autumn showcasing a spectacular display of colors that earned it the status of an official Place of Scenic Beauty.
Despite its stunning scenery and easy access—only a two-minute walk from Kokubunji Station—Tonogayato remains relatively under the radar, allowing visitors to enjoy its winding paths and peaceful views without crowds.
Historical Background
The gardens were originally created between 1913 and 1915 as part of a private villa for Eguchi Teijo, a railway executive. Later, in 1929, Koyata Iwasaki, from the Mitsubishi founding family, purchased the property and expanded it into a circular strolling garden.
Features like the Koyo-tei tea house were added by 1934, enhancing the garden's charm. The Iwasaki family used Tonogayato as a tranquil escape from urban life.
Preservation Challenges
By the 1970s, this historic estate faced the risk of being lost to urban redevelopment, highlighting the ongoing tension between modernization and heritage conservation.
"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."
Author's summary: Tonogayato Gardens offers a peaceful blend of history and natural beauty, preserving a rare Meiji-era landscape near Tokyo amid modern urban threats.
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