While Parisian parks start to fill up at the slightest hint of sunshine, some places remain surprisingly untouched. Such is the case with the Ichikawa Garden, a secluded spot nestled in Issy-les-Moulineaux where the noise of the city suddenly seems much farther away.
As soon as you pass through the gate, the atmosphere changes. The buildings gradually disappear behind the trees, the paths wind between the rocks, and a small pond reflects the surrounding foliage. It’s hard to imagine that the ring road and the major thoroughfares of southern Paris are just a few minutes away.
A magnificent Japanese garden on the outskirts of Paris
This garden is not the result of chance. It was born out of a partnership between Issy-les-Moulineaux and the Japanese city of Ichikawa, located in the Tokyo area. For several years, the two municipalities have maintained cultural exchanges that gave rise to this project, which is quite unique in France.
Rather than simply replicating a Japanese setting, the designers sought to adhere to the core principles of this art of landscaping. Each element thus has a specific meaning . The stones symbolize permanence and eternity, while the gravel evokes the sea. The entire space was conceived as a miniature journey through different landscapes, from mountainous terrain to seashores.
As you stroll through the garden, your gaze is regularly drawn to details you might not always notice on your first visit. A stone lantern emerges between two carefully pruned shrubs. A discreet bridge spans part of the pond. Further on, a waterfall enlivens the garden with the gentle sound of flowing water, which greatly contributes to the atmosphere of the place.
One of the most striking structures is the Azumaya, a traditional Japanese gazebo designed for rest and contemplation. Set apart from the walkways, it offers one of the most pleasant views of the garden and, all by itself, encapsulates the spirit of the site: slow down, observe, and enjoy the moment.
The seasons also profoundly transform the landscape. In spring, blooming flowers bring new colors, while maples, pines, and azaleas create a setting that evolves throughout the year. Even in the height of summer, when the heat settles over the Paris region, the shaded areas and the presence of water help maintain a particularly pleasant atmosphere.
At a time when many residents of the Île-de-France region are seeking quieter spots to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital, the Ichikawa Garden stands out as a lovely alternative to the large, often overcrowded parks. It’s a refreshing getaway that requires no train, no car, and no long weekend to feel like you’ve traveled a little farther.
Ichikawa Garden – Allée Vauban, Issy-les-Moulineaux – 92130
