Japanese Entertainment, Gardens and Directory

Japanese Gardens

London is lucky to have numerous beautiful parks and green spaces. Here you're never far from somewhere to escape the hubbub and rush of city life. The parks listed below each have Japanese gardens that are well worth a visit if you're after some time and space or just appreciate wonderful horticultural design.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Take time to visit the tranquil surroundings of the wonderful Japanese gardens at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew where you'll also see examples of traditional Japanese architecture. The Chokushi-Mon or Gateway of the Imperial Messenger is a scaled-down version of an identical building in Kyoto surrounded by almost 5,000 square metres of landscaped garden. The Minka is an original farmhouse shipped over from Japan and surrounded by a lovely bamboo garden.

The Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

Originally created in 1991, this is a wonderfully serene place - where you can also see giant koi carp - in Holland Park is one of London's prettiest but less well-known open spaces.

Battersea Park

Just south of the river, Battersea Park is home to a stunning Japanese peace pagoda where every morning Buddhist monks congregate for silent meditation. A lovely place to visit for some peace and reflection a stone's throw from Chelsea.

Directory

Embassy of Japan in the UK

101-104 Piccadilly, W1J
Tel: +44 (0)20 7465 6500
The Japanese embassy is close to Buckingham Palace and Green Park. Their website covers everything from the latest domestic news to up-to-date information on events, concerts and music.

Japan Society

Swire House, 59 Buckingham Gate, SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7828 6330
The Japan Society, founded in 1891, is dedicated to promoting cultural understanding between the UK and Japan. It hosts over 50 events a year including private views, parties, concerts and conversation classes. The Japan Society website is great for keeping up with the latest Anglo-Japanese events.