At first glance, Rue Roger-Salengro gives away absolutely nothing. Then a door opens, and just a few steps later, the houses of Hellemmes seem like a distant memory. Welcome to the Sentier du Chimonobambusa, a hidden Japanese garden in Lille where you can slow down, take in the views, and, of course, wonder how such a beautiful setting has remained a secret for so long.
A hidden Japanese garden in the heart of the city
Spread over more than 300 m², the Sentier du Chimonobambusa features a series of little landscapes inspired by the Far East. Bamboo, maples, flowers, rocks, and foliage blend around a pond filled with koi fish. The garden is designed to be discovered gradually. Here, there’s no grand view from the entrance: scenes unfold along the path, behind a plant or around a bend. This keeps the mystery alive throughout your visit, which lasts about an hour. And it’s probably this contrast that impresses the most. From the street, it feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be explored!
It's hard to imagine that such a peaceful scene is just behind the façades.See this post on Instagram
A little world entirely shaped by a passionate person
The place is the creation of Martine, who has crafted and shaped this garden over time. Her passion is reflected in the impressive variety of plants gathered here, as well as in every little detail of the visit. The garden has been designed to remain fl...euri throughout the year, thanks to plants that bloom in succession with the seasons. In other words, the landscape will never be exactly the same from one visit to another. Its name actually comes from the Chimonobambusa, a particularly rare variety of bamboo that you can see in the garden. It might not be as easy to pronounce as "zen garden," but it's definitely much more intriguing.
Koi Carp and Meditation Spaces
Beyond the vegetation, several cozy spots invite you to take a break. You'll find a sheltered corner with cushions, as well as a small cabin furnished with tatamis. The scent of incense, the sound of water, and the gentle movement of koi carp quickly create a delightful atmosphere. Even those who have never meditated for longer than the length of a commercial might feel compelled to settle in for a few minutes. The Chimonobambusa Path also offers...acute; conceived with environmentally friendly methods and minimal maintenance, to keep a look as natural as possible while welcoming a beautiful biodiversity.
A Place You Can Also Book Just for You
The garden isn't just for guided tours. You can also rent it for an hour, half a day, or an entire day. Whether it's for an intimate lunch, a small gathering, a photo session, or a relaxing moment with loved ones, this setting is perfect for those times when you want to escape Lille without really leaving it. Photographers can especially set up shoots amidst the bamboo, flowers, and charming Asian decor.
The Chimonobambusa Path
97 rue Roger-Salengro, Hellemmes-Lille
Visit by reservation: 06 47 54 57 34