Jardín Japonés
Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires
The Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens, located in the Parque Tres de Febrero in Palermo, Buenos Aires, are among the largest Japanese gardens outside Japan. Established in 1967 to commemorate the visit of Crown Prince Akihito and Princess Michiko, the gardens serve as a cultural bridge between Argentina and Japan. They feature traditional Japanese landscaping elements including sakura, azaleas, and maple trees alongside native South American species like tipa and floss silk trees. The central lake is crossed by symbolic bridges such as the Divine Bridge representing entry to Heaven and the Truncated Bridge leading to an island with medicinal herbs. Visitors can also admire the Japanese Peace Bell, stone lanterns, granite sculptures, and a Buddhist temple on the grounds. The garden complex includes a cultural center, a bonsai greenhouse, a restaurant, and a gift shop selling Asian garden seeds and crafts. The gardens host regular cultural activities, promoting Japanese traditions and arts in Argentina, and are managed by the Japanese Argentine Cultural Foundation.
Plan your trip to Argentina with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The garden is open daily from 10:00 to 18:45, including weekends and holidays, and remains open in rain. Entry is free for children under 12, seniors over 65, people with disabilities, and Argentine residents on certain days. It is recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. Tickets can be purchased onsite, and visitors should note that alcohol, smoking, drones, and pets (except certified service animals) are prohibited. The garden is accessible by several bus lines and the D subway line, with the main entrance on Av. Casares.
Interesting facts
- •The gardens are among the largest Japanese gardens outside Japan, covering approximately 2 hectares.
- •The central lake features carp and is crossed by symbolic bridges including the Divine Bridge and the Truncated Bridge.
- •A Japanese Peace Bell and traditional stone lanterns (ishidoro) are prominent features on the grounds.
- •The garden hosts a collection of bonsai trees in a dedicated greenhouse.
- •A marble samurai sculpture by artist Baku Inoue is displayed within the gardens.
History
The Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens were inaugurated in 1967 as a gift from the Japanese community in Argentina to commemorate the first visit of a Japanese Imperial Family member to the country, Crown Prince Akihito and Princess Michiko.
The gardens replaced a smaller previous Japanese garden in the Retiro area.
Since 1989, the Japanese Argentine Cultural Foundation has administered the site, expanding cultural activities and exhibits.
The gardens were declared a National Historic and Artistic Heritage site in 2008 and have hosted visits by multiple members of the Japanese Imperial Family over the decades, reinforcing their symbolic importance in Argentina-Japan relations.
Place Guide
Divine Bridge (Puente de Dios)
A highly curved and challenging bridge symbolizing the path to paradise, representing spiritual transition within the garden.
Truncated Bridge
This bridge leads to an island where Japanese medicinal herbs are cultivated, highlighting traditional Japanese botanical knowledge.
Japanese Peace Bell
A large bell symbolizing peace, reflecting Buddhist traditions and Japanese cultural heritage.
Bonsai Greenhouse
A specialized greenhouse housing an extensive collection of bonsai trees, showcasing this delicate Japanese art form.
Japanese Buddhist Temple
A temple maintained on the grounds serving as a cultural and spiritual center for visitors and the local Japanese community.
Contact
Phone: 011 2257-2130
