The tea house (ochaya) is an example of Sukiya-zukuri architecture, a style developed during the Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1573-1600) and characterized by the simplicity and austerity of natural materials.Garden visitors are allowed to enter the ochaya free of charge, and it can be rented as a venue for tea ceremonies.

The tea house is constructed with rooms called ma. This is the Comb-Shaped Room (Kushigata-no-Ma), and is a great place to stop and relax. When the weather is good, a refreshing breeze often blows through here.

The view of the garden from the tea house is so serene it'll make you forget about the passage of time.

These are small stones spread around on the earthen veranda facing the pond. Attention to detail and sensory delights in the smallest of places is one of the most unique and charming aspects of Japanese gardens

Yokokan Teien is located in the center of Fukui City and is roughly 15 minutes on foot from JR Fukui Station. The garden is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (from November 6 through the end of February, the garden closes at 5 p.m.) Be sure to see the tea house when you stroll the garden circuit!