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Garden · La Serena, Coquimbo
Parque Japonés Kokoro No Niwa
Japanese garden of 26,000 square meters opened in 1994, about 400 meters from the Plaza de Armas, with an artificial lake, traditional bridge, waterfall, rock garden and carp. The name means 'garden of the heart'.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parque Japonés Kokoro No Niwa
The Parque Japonés Kokoro No Niwa, officially Parque Jardín del Corazón, was inaugurated on August 26, 1994, during the celebrations of La Serena's 450th anniversary. Kokoro No Niwa means 'garden of the heart' in Japanese. It is located on Eduardo de la Barra street, between Pedro Pablo Muñoz and the Panamericana, opposite Parque Pedro de Valdivia.
It covers about 26,000 square meters designed according to the tradition of Japanese gardens: an artificial lake with an island and a pagoda, a Japanese arched bridge, a waterfall, a rock garden, bamboo trellises and small groves. There are more than 70 plant species, including cherry trees, Japanese maples, ginkgos and azaleas.
Colorful carp swim in the lake, and white and black swans, ducks and pond turtles share the space. A flat path circles the lake, with benches and shaded spots.
Entrance is paid. In summer the park is open every day; during the rest of the year it usually closes on Mondays.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 45 minutes to an hour and a half.
Best time
Mid-morning or late afternoon, with softer light and less activity. The cherry trees usually bloom at the end of winter and the beginning of spring, between August and September.
How to get there
It is about 400 meters west of the Plaza de Armas, on foot via Cordovez street or via Eduardo de la Barra to Pedro Pablo Muñoz.
Tip
Walk around the lake in the direction indicated by the signs, without skipping steps, and stop on the bridges to see the carp. Bring a light jacket: the sea breeze reaches the park.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Japonés Kokoro No Niwa
What does Kokoro No Niwa mean?
It means 'garden of the heart' in Japanese. The official Spanish name is Parque Jardín del Corazón.
How long does a visit to Jardim Japonês de La Serena take?
About an hour to walk around the lake at a relaxed pace, stopping at the bridge and the waterfall.
Is the Parque Japonés open every day?
In summer, yes. The rest of the year it usually closes on Mondays. Check before you go.