Hidden in plain sight, Yakushido Park is a quiet gem that whispers beauty. This intimate garden blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design—stone lanterns, raked gravel, a delicate bridge over a tiny stream. Every corner tells a story of stillness and balance. Come here early morning for birdsong, or linger at dusk as the light turns honey-gold. It’s not just a park; it’s a meditation in motion.
Everything you need to know about Yakushido Park
Nagoya Port Marriott Hotel is a top choice, located just a 15-minute drive from Yakushido Park, offering breathtaking waterfront views and excellent access to downtown Nagoya via free shuttle service. The hotel features an indoor pool, Japanese-style dining, and modern amenities ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Alternatively, consider Nagoya Shinsekai Hotel, adjacent to Nagoya Station with a direct walkway to the park entrance. This centrally located option provides multilingual staff, luggage storage, and easy access to local attractions, making it perfect for a day trip to the park’s historic Yakushido Temple and seasonal flower displays.
Yes! Yakushido Park features seasonal gardens and interactive children’s trails, where families can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. The on-site mini-ecological pond lets kids observe ducks and fish up close.
During summer, the park hosts the Yakushido Lantern Festival, illuminating the grounds with hundreds of paper lanterns—creating a magical nighttime atmosphere. Just a 10-minute drive away, the Nagoya Port Aquarium offers immersive marine exhibits and hands-on activities, perfect for kids.
Don’t miss the tea ceremony workshop within the park, where families can learn to prepare matcha and traditional wagashi, deepening their appreciation for Japanese culture and craftsmanship.
The most convenient route is taking the Meitetsu Seto Line from Nagoya Station to "Honten Station", then transferring to bus lines 26 or 34—just a 10-minute ride to Yakushido Park. The total journey takes about 25 minutes and costs only ¥500.
Alternatively, a taxi from Nagoya Station’s west exit takes around 15 minutes, costing approximately ¥1,800. Using Suica or ICOCA cards allows seamless tap-in/tap-out across trains and buses, eliminating ticket purchases.
The park has ample parking spaces for self-driving visitors, though it’s recommended to avoid weekends due to potential congestion.
Yakushido Park was originally the site of Yakushido Temple, established in the early Edo period (17th century), serving as a spiritual center for local residents seeking health and protection. The park preserves remnants such as ancient stone tablets and wooden hall ruins.
The main structure, Yakushido Hall, enshrines Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) and features a traditional kara-hafu roof with vibrant colors. During festivals, the temple holds blessing ceremonies.
Each spring and autumn equinox, the park hosts the Morning Bell Ceremony, where nine chimes symbolize purification—a deeply rooted tradition attracting locals and tourists alike.
The highlight is the Nagoya Port Light Show, running nightly from 7 PM to 10 PM, when the harbor’s Ferris wheel, docks, and sky bridge illuminate in vibrant colors, creating stunning reflections on the water.
The Nagoya Port Aquarium also opens at night (Wed–Sun), offering special Underwater Night Tours where visitors can observe deep-sea creatures under glowing ambient lighting.
Along the waterfront, the Seafood Market Avenue features fresh catch cooked right before your eyes—try grilled tuna or takoyaki with a chilled draft beer, delivering an authentic taste of Nagoya’s coastal nightlife.
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