A quiet Japanese garden tucked inside Makati’s busy business district has been renewed, giving residents, office workers, and visitors another place to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Ten years on, the spirit of wa lives on. The renewed Tsuruki-en Japanese Garden stands as a lasting symbol of the partnership between Security Bank and MUFG.
Tsuruki-en, the Japanese Garden at Washington SyCip Park, has been refreshed through a partnership between Security Bank and MUFG Bank, Manila Branch. The renewal marks the 10th year of the two institutions’ partnership and highlights the enduring connection between Japan and the Philippines.
Nestled among Makati’s office towers and busy streets, the garden offers a peaceful escape for anyone seeking a quiet break in the city.
Discover Tsuruki-en Japanese Garden in Makati
First unveiled in 2017 by Security Bank, MUFG, and the late Washington SyCip, Tsuruki-en has become a distinctive green space within Makati.
The garden’s name refers to the Japanese words for crane and turtle, symbols traditionally associated with longevity and good fortune.
Located inside Washington SyCip Park, it’s accessible to the surrounding business community and visitors exploring Makati.
The renewed garden offers a place to escape the city’s pace, walk among greenery, or simply spend a few quiet moments outdoors.
A Japanese-Inspired Garden in the Heart of Makati
The refreshed Tsuruki-en Garden draws inspiration from wa, the Japanese concept associated with harmony and balance.
The landscape combines natural elements including stone, water, greenery, and carefully shaped garden features to create a tranquil environment.
The renewal also incorporated sustainable materials sourced in the Philippines, adding a local dimension to the Japanese-inspired design.
The result is a garden that blends Japanese aesthetics with elements rooted in its Philippine setting.
A Peaceful Escape From Makati’s Business District
Markers of a shared journey, honoring the vision, friendship, and collaboration behind Tsuruki-en.Makati is known for its skyscrapers, shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and busy streets. Tsuruki-en offers a different experience within the same urban environment.
Office workers can use the garden for a short break during the workday. Residents can visit for a quiet walk, while families and travelers exploring Makati can add the garden to their itinerary.
For photography enthusiasts, the garden also offers a change of scenery from the city’s modern architecture.
Its compact setting makes it easy to include in a Makati city walk, especially for travelers exploring nearby parks, restaurants, shopping areas, and cultural attractions.
Security Bank and MUFG Mark 10 Years of Partnership
The garden renewal also marks the 10th year of the partnership between Security Bank and MUFG.
According to Victor Lee, President and CEO of Security Bank, the garden provides a space for calm and reflection in the middle of a busy city. He also expressed hope that more people will discover and enjoy the renewed garden.
For MUFG, the project reflects its continuing relationship with Security Bank and its connection to the Philippines.
Masami Yoshitake, Country Head of MUFG Bank, Manila Branch, described the garden renewal as a way to care for a shared urban space while preserving a place where people can enjoy nature and find a sense of calm.
A Shared Space for the Makati Community
Representatives from Security Bank, MUFG, the Makati Central Estate Association (MACEA), and other partners gathered for the garden’s rededication and a walkthrough of the renewed space.
The project gives Tsuruki-en another chapter as a shared green space in Makati.
Its location makes it especially relevant in a city where public spaces offer valuable opportunities to step away from the surrounding commercial and business environment.
Add Tsuruki-en to Your Makati Itinerary
For travelers exploring Makati, Tsuruki-en Japanese Garden offers an easy way to experience a quieter side of the city.
Add the garden to a day exploring Makati’s parks, restaurants, shopping destinations, hotels, and business district.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful place to sit, a green space for a short walk, or another interesting stop for your Makati itinerary, the renewed Tsuruki-en Garden offers a different perspective on the city.
After its refresh, this hidden urban oasis is ready to welcome the Makati community and visitors seeking a moment of calm amid the city.
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