Pune Okayama Friendship Garden, Pune - Timings, Entry Fee, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 8 km from Pune Junction, Pune Okayama Friendship Garden is located on Sinhgad road in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest gardens in Pune.

The Pune Okayama Friendship Garden was established as part of the sister city initiatives to celebrate the Indo-Japanese relationship between Okayama and Pune. Its design draws inspiration from the renowned Korakuen Garden in Okayama, which has a history of over 300 years, having been constructed in 1700 by the Ikeda royal family of Japan. The garden is also referred to as the Pu. La. Deshpande Udayan, in honor of the esteemed Marathi writer and humorist Purushottam Laxman Deshpande.

Spanning an impressive 10 acres, this garden holds the distinction of being the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan and has appeared in numerous Bollywood films. The layout of the garden embodies the Japanese philosophy of Yin and Yang, highlighting the balance between movement and stillness, light and shadow, as well as warmth and coolness, thereby reflecting the essence of Japanese culture. It incorporates all essential features of a traditional Japanese garden, including waterfalls, ponds, rocks, stone lanterns, bridges, water basins, walls, statues, plants, koi fish, and fences.

This park harmoniously integrates natural elements with constructed features, featuring a natural canal that flows through the garden alongside artificial ponds and waterfalls. The ducks and red fish inhabiting the ponds are sourced from the Zen Sect of South China. Visitors will observe elegantly crafted bamboo bridges, seating, and shaded areas throughout the garden. The stone lanterns within the Okayama Friendship Garden enhance the scenic beauty, designed in various forms and strategically placed near the water basins. Additionally, the garden features artificial mountains known as 'Kasan,' constructed from wood, asymmetrical stones, and ceramics.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the garden offers a refreshing atmosphere. A designated children's play area is also available within the premises. After exploring the garden, visitors can proceed to the Mughal Garden, situated adjacent to the Okayama Garden, which is a replica of the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

Timings: 6 AM - 10.30 AM & 4 PM - 8 PM

Entry: Rs. 5 per Person