Travel in Hyogo
Koko-en
Koko-en · 好古園
Choose Koko-en for Japanese gardens in Himeji. Its 9 gardens include pond walks and tea gardens.
West of the castle, it suits a visit after castle viewing. Garden-only tickets are available too.
Koko-en prices, hours and closures Koko-en official events and notices Official sources
Visitor information
Admission
Garden-only ages 18 and above admission is 400 yen. Under-18s are free, continuing through the following 31 March after the year you turn 18. Adult castle/garden combined admission is 2,600 yen.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00, last entry 16:30. Closed 29–30 December. Event hours can differ; check date-specific notices if attending.
What to see at Koko-en
Pond and tea gardens: 9 different landscapes
Explore the 9 gardens, including pond and tea gardens. Allow time for each garden when combining the visit with castle viewing.
How to get to Koko-en
Walk about 15 minutes from JR Himeji to Koko-en's walled entrance west of the castle. It differs from castle paid-area admission. This time starts at the station, not the castle.
Before you visit
Distinguish the entrance from Himeji Castle
After castle viewing, go to Koko-en's western walled entrance, distinct from castle paid-area admission. The approximately 15-minute station-to-garden walk does not describe access from the castle.
Check separate event-day notices
Events can change hours. Arrive before garden last entry when visiting both; check date-specific event notices if attending an event.
Koko-en prices, hours and closures Koko-en official events and notices
Questions about Koko-en
Can I visit Koko-en without entering Himeji Castle?
Yes. Choose garden-only admission, or compare the combined ticket if visiting the castle too.
Official sources
- Koko-en prices, hours and closures ·
- Koko-en official events and notices ·
- Official sources ·
- Official sources ·
- Official sources ·
- Official sources ·
- Koko-en access ·
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