Hidden Wonders: Tonogayato Gardens – A Hillside Sanctuary in Kokubunji
Tonogayato Gardens is a serene hillside oasis where Meiji-era sophistication meets the peaceful rhythms of nature. Located just a short train ride from central Tokyo, this picturesque retreat in Kokubunji offers visitors a quiet escape surrounded by lush greenery and seasonal beauty.
The garden takes full advantage of the natural contours of the Musashino Plateau, incorporating multiple levels of lawns, woodlands, and reflective water features. During autumn, the landscape bursts into a brilliant array of red and gold, earning its status as an official Place of Scenic Beauty. Despite its proximity to Kokubunji Station—only a two-minute walk—Tonogayato Gardens remains delightfully tranquil, providing visitors with moments of solitude amid artful design.
Guests wandering its winding paths discover the harmony of Japanese garden craftsmanship intertwined with a subtle sense of history. In the heart of Tokyo’s western edge, this hidden refuge captures the timeless spirit of nature and culture coexisting in balance.
Historical Roots
The garden’s origins trace back to the early twentieth century. Between 1913 and 1915, it was developed as part of a private villa for Eguchi Teijo, a prominent railway executive.
In 1929, the property came into the hands of Koyata Iwasaki, a member of the Mitsubishi founding family. He expanded and refined the site into a circular strolling garden, introducing new architectural and natural elements.
By 1934, the addition of the Koyo-tei tea house completed the transformation, turning the garden into a peaceful retreat for the Iwasaki family.
For decades, it served as a green refuge from the expanding city. However, by the 1970s, this historically rich landscape faced the looming threat of urban redevelopment.
Author’s Summary
Tonogayato Gardens in Kokubunji offers a rare blend of history, design, and seasonal beauty—an enduring sanctuary that preserves the quiet grace of Japan’s classic garden tradition.