Murin-an（無鄰菴）
A Meiji-Period Strolling Garden in Kyoto Murin-an (無鄰菴) is a beautifully preserved strolling garden from the Meiji period (1868–1912). Built between 1894 and 1896 by Yamagata Aritomo, it reflects a harmonious blend of Japanese tradition and Western influence. Although Yamagata admired classical Japanese gardens, he was equally captivated by Western ideas. This unique blend is […]
Shisen-do（詩仙堂）
A Poet’s Retreat in the Hills of Kyoto Shisen-dō (詩仙堂), nestled in the northern hills of Kyoto, offers a peaceful escape shaped by poetry and nature. Built in 1641 as a retirement villa by Ishikawa Jōzan—a poet, calligrapher, and former samurai—this site later became a Sōtō Zen temple. Today, it remains a beloved destination for […]
Konchi-in（金地院 南禅寺）
Kyoto’s Zen Garden Framed Like a Painting Konchi-in（金地院）is a sub-temple of the larger Nanzen-ji temple complex in Kyoto. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimochi founded the temple in the early 15th century. Later, in 1605, the temple was relocated from northern Kyoto to its current location within Nanzen-ji. Not long after, between 1611 and 1632, the garden was […]
Kairaku-en（偕楽園）
One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens Kairaku-en is a famous strolling garden located in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture. It was created in 1841 by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth feudal lord of the Mito Domain. Unlike many gardens built for nobility or religious purposes, Kairaku-en was intended for the public. Hence, the name “garden to be […]
Koraku-en（後楽園）
A Tranquil Masterpiece in Okayama Kōraku-en, located in Okayama City, is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The other gardens are called Kenroku-en in Kanazawa and Kairaku-en in Mito. This stunning landscape garden was constructed in 1700 during the Edo period under the order of Ikeda Tsunamasa. Tsunamasa was the feudal lord of […]
Ryogin-an (Tofuku-ji)（龍吟庵）
Where Modern Zen Gardens Meet Ancient Tradition Located within the Tōfuku-ji temple complex in Kyoto, Ryōgin-an (龍吟庵) offers a unique blend of ancient architecture and modern garden design. Therefore, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the evolution of Japanese Zen aesthetics. Ryōgin-an began as the residence of the third head priest of Tōfuku-ji, who […]
Nanzen-ji（南禅寺）
Kyoto’s Grand Zen Temple at the Foot of Higashiyama Nanzen-ji is one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. Located at the base of the eastern mountains (Higashiyama), this majestic temple complex blends nature, history, and art into one peaceful experience. It’s especially known for its calm atmosphere and the beauty of its traditional Japanese gardens. […]
Taizo-in (Myoshin-ji)（退蔵院）
A Tranquil Retreat in Kyoto Taizō-in (退蔵院) is one of the oldest and most celebrated sub-temples in the Myōshin-ji Zen temple complex. Founded in 1404, it sits quietly in northwestern Kyoto, away from the city crowds. The temple garden is said to have been designed by painter Kano Motonobu during the Muromachi period. Every corner […]
Hakone Museum of Art – Moss Garden（箱根美術館）
Moss Garden and Japanese Aesthetics in the Mountains The Hakone Museum of Art’s Moss Garden is a lush, serene landscape tucked into the cool, misty mountains of Hakone. Beneath the canopy of around 200 maple trees, narrow stone paths weave through vibrant green moss, offering a peaceful stroll through nature. The unique climate of Hakone—cool, […]
Shirakawa-in Garden（白河院庭園）
Step Into Serenity at Shirakawa-in Garden Tucked away in Kyoto’s peaceful Higashiyama district, Shirakawa-in Garden offers a rare blend of imperial history and modern elegance. While the garden belongs to a high-end ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), its historical roots run deep—stretching back to the early Heian period (794–1185). This land once hosted aristocratic villas, including […]