Enjoy peace and quiet in the Japanese Garden, a pocket of serenity amid the high-flying glamour of Monaco's casinos and fast cars. The traditional terraces, bridges and statues typical of feudal era Japan have been meticulously recreated here and are displayed across 1.7 acres (7,000 square metres) of green space in the heart of the city. Wander around the shady paths, admire the brightly colored foliage and check out the man-made lake that dominates the area.
Princess Grace first had the idea for the gardens, but it was Prince Rainier who eventually commissioned them in 1994. They were designed by celebrated landscape architect Yasuo Beppu. Note that all of the constructions, such as the bridge and the terrace, were initially made in Japan before being reassembled in Monte Carlo, giving the gardens a feeling of authenticity rather than imitation.
Everything in the park has a Japanese name. Enter through the shô-mon (main gate), where the path splits into a circular route around the iké (lake). Turn toward the sea and follow the path to the kyukeïjo (covered terrace), which overlooks the water. Spot 18 different kinds of koi swimming in the lake.
Amble past a miniature cascade and an arched red bridge, which is said to symbolise happiness, before resting in the traditional chatshitsu (tea house). A zen garden, with gravel raked into curved patterns, represents the ocean.
Visit several times throughout the year to see the garden blooming into many different colours. See the pink blossom of the cherry trees in spring. In fall, the garden looks almost completely different, as the maple tree leaves turn gold and red.
Find the Japanese Garden on the coast between the Grimaldi Forum and the Sun Casino. Walking here from the train station will take just 20 minutes. The garden is open from morning until sunset and is completely free to enter. Come back repeatedly to enjoy its serene atmosphere.
