Japanese Roof Garden

SOAS's Japanese roof garden is a calm space for people to relax and meditate away from the bustle of London's streets.   

Located on top of the SOAS Gallery, the garden was built during the Japan 2001 celebrations and was officially opened by the sponsor, Mr Haruhisa Handa (Toshu Fukami), an Honorary Fellow of the School, on 13 November 2001. It is dedicated to Forgiveness, which is the meaning of the Kanji character engraved on the garden’s granite water basin.

Peter Swift, a designer with experience of adapting Japanese garden design principles to the British environment and climate, conceived the garden as a place of quiet contemplation and meditation as well as a functional space complementary to the Gallery and its artistic activities.

Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30am–5:00pm (Late opening Thursdays to 8:00pm).

The garden is closed on Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays.

The garden can be accessed from the first floor of the gallery, through the exhibitions space. When exhibitions are being changed, or during private functions, access may be restricted so please check the Gallery for details.