Wadakura Fountain Park

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The park's 1995 redesign was created to celebrate the wedding of the current Emperor Naruhito.

2. 2

   The water used in the fountain is recirculated and filtered, consuming a significant amount of electricity to power the vertical jets.

3. 3

   The fountain is designed to symbolize the 'flow' of the imperial lineage.

4. 4

   Wadakura-mon, the historic gate that once stood nearby, provides the park with its name.

5. 5

   The park occupies land that was once part of the outer moat system of the historic Edo Castle.

6. 6

   The design incorporates 300 fiber-optic cables for lighting displays that illuminate the water at night.

Overview

Wadakura Fountain National Park is a landscaped urban space centered around a large-scale, multi-tiered fountain complex. It was originally built in 1961 to commemorate the marriage of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. The park underwent a major reconstruction in 1995, resulting in the current modern water feature design. The main fountain features a massive central jet that reaches up to 8.5 meters in height. Surrounding the water feature are several smaller cascading fountains and water channels arranged in geometric stone basins. The site serves as a green buffer zone between the modern business district of Marunouchi and the Imperial Palace East Garden. It is administered as part of the Kokyo Gaien National Garden complex.

Insider tips

• Visit after sunset to see the water feature illuminated by the integrated fiber-optic lighting system.

• The park provides minimal natural shade, so carry sun protection during the summer months.

• Bring a portable chair or mat if you intend to sit for a long period, as permanent seating is limited to concrete ledges.