The Japanese Garden in Helwan, in southern Cairo, is one of the city’s most unusual public gardens. It was created by the architect Zulfiqar Pasha, who also designed the Andalusian Garden, as an Asian-style garden in the years around the First World War, when Helwan was a fashionable spa resort. Sources give dates from 1917 to 1922.
What to see
The garden covers about 10 acres and is filled with statues and Asian-inspired features:
- A large seated Buddha on a lotus flower, the garden’s best-known image.
- Rows of seated figures of disciples gathered around their teacher in front of a dry lake.
- Three elephant statues and a statue of the three wise monkeys: “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”.
- Lotus ponds, small bridges, a music kiosk, shaded seating areas and old trees.
The Cairo Governorate restored the garden between 2005 and 2006. It is popular with local families at weekends and is pleasantly quiet on weekday mornings. Some of the lakes are now dry.
How to get there
The garden is on Mustafa El Maraghi Street in Helwan. Take Cairo Metro Line 1 south to Helwan, the last station, then walk or take a short taxi ride. From central Cairo the metro takes under an hour. Helwan’s other sights, such as the Royal Wax Museum and the Wadi Hof area, can be combined with a visit.
Last checked October 2026. Sources: en.wikipedia.org, dailynewsegypt.com, dailynewsegypt.com, egyptianstreets.com.
Frequently asked questions
What is in the Japanese Garden?
Statues of Buddha, including a seated Buddha on a lotus flower, three elephant statues and a statue of the three wise monkeys.
When was it created?
It was created in 1917 by Zulfaqar Pasha, the architect of Cairo's Al-Andalus Garden.
Where is the Japanese Garden?
In Helwan, south of central Cairo. Helwan is on Metro Line 1, and taxis and ride-hailing apps also reach it.
Is there an entry fee?
A small fee is usually charged at the gate. Check locally for the current amount and opening hours.
