Last Updated on March 8, 2026
Hidden in the beautiful Clingendael Estate, Japanese Garden The Hague is a dreamy little escape filled with mossy bridges, stone lanterns, a peaceful pond, and Japanese maple trees. In spring, the cherry blossoms create a fairytale setting, while in autumn, the garden glows with fiery reds and oranges. And the best part? A visit to the Japanese Garden is free of charge! Sounds like a dream, right? Well, here’s the catch… It’s only open for a few weeks each year! So, if you want to visit this Japanese Garden in The Hague, you’ll need to plan ahead. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with all the tips and tricks to make your visit unforgettable! Enjoy!
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Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
How to get to Clingendael’s Japanese Garden in The Hague?
Clingendael Estate is nestled between The Hague and Wassenaar (location). Here’s how to get there:
- By Public Transport: Hop on a bus from The Hague Central Station and get off at “Oostduinlaan.” From there, it’s just a short walk to the estate. Visit 9292.com to plan your journey with public transportation.
- By Bicycle: The Hague is a cycling paradise! A 15-20 minute bike ride from the city center will bring you straight to Clingendael. You can easily rent a bicycle in The Hague city centre or at the Central Train Station.
- By Car: There’s free parking nearby, but it fills up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early to grab a spot! Plan your route on Google Maps. Follow the signs for ‘Japanse tuin’ in the park.
5 Essential tips for visiting the Japanese Garden
Since the garden is only open for a few weeks in spring and autumn, a little planning goes a long way. Here are 5 must-know tips for an amazing visit:
- Check the opening dates and arrive early: The garden is usually open for a few weeks in May/June and October. Check The Hague’s website so you don’t miss out! This place is no secret—weekends get crowded! Come early or visit on a weekday for a peaceful experience.
- Pick a sunny day and bring your camera: Sunlight makes the colors pop, so aim for a clear day to get the best photos. The mossy bridges, glowing red leaves, and koi-filled pond make for stunning pictures.
- Respect the Garden: Stay on the paths, don’t touch the plants, and leave Fido at home (no pets allowed!).
- Look for Guided Tours: Occasionally, guided tours are available, offering fascinating insights into the garden’s history and design.
- Explore Clingendael Estate too! The estate itself is gorgeous, with wide open fields, old trees, and peaceful walking trails. While food isn’t allowed in the garden, the surrounding park is the perfect spot for a relaxing snack break. There are also benches scattered throughout Clingendael for a quiet rest.
Reading tip: explore essential Japanese etiquette tips, helping you navigate cultural norms with respect and confidence.
Tip for eating near the garden
After your walk in the Japanese Garden, reward yourself with something delicious at IJgenweis Food & Drink, a lovely café right in Clingendael Park. They serve tasty sandwiches, homemade cakes, and great coffee. If the sun is out, grab a seat outside and soak in the nature vibes while you eat. I loved it and think it’s a great way to refuel!
Extend your adventure to The Hague Forest and Huis ten Bosch
Not ready to head home yet? Great news! Just cross the road from Clingendael at Chalet ten Bosch, and you’ll step into The Hague Forest (Haagse Bos)—one of the city’s largest and most beautiful green spaces. It’s a fantastic place for a walk, a picnic, or even some birdwatching.
As you stroll through the forest, you’ll come across Huis ten Bosch, the royal palace where the Dutch king and queen live. While you can’t go inside, I think the palace is stunning from the outside, and the surrounding park is a peaceful spot to admire the view.
Below, you can find some photos of the forest and the palace, as well as the route I walked.
Where to stay in The Hague?
If you’re looking for an accommodation near the Japanese Garden, consider booking this tiny house. It’s only a few minutes walking from the Japanese Garden! If you’re planning a longer stay in The Hague, here are some great accommodations in the city centre of The Hague:
- Luxury: Hotel Des Indes or Staybridge Suites – Two elegant and historic hotels.
- Mid-Range: De Plesman Hotel or Park Centraal – Two stylish, comfortable hotels near the city center.
- Budget-Friendly: The Social Hub or Stayokay – Two cozy and affordable ho(s)tels.
Reading tip: explore the best things to do in Scheveningen, a coastal destination very close to The Hague.
Final thoughts
I think that Clingendael’s Japanese Garden in The Hague is like stepping into a fairytale! Add in a walk through Clingendael Estate, a delicious bite at IJgenweis, and a forest adventure to Huis ten Bosch, and I think that you’ve got yourself a perfect nature-filled day, very close to the city 😉
If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!
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