Rikugien（六義園 ）
A Classical Edo-Period Garden Rooted in Poetry Rikugien（六義園）is one of Tokyo’s most elegant and refined Edo-period strolling gardens, located in the quiet neighborhood of Komagome in Bunkyo ward. Built between 1695 and 1702 by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu—a samurai official under shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi—the garden was inspired by classical Waka poetry and originally featured 88 miniature scenes […]
The Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji)（銀閣寺 （慈照寺））
The Silver Pavilion and the Spirit of Wabi-Sabi in Kyoto Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺), also known as the Silver Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic Zen temples. Located on the city’s eastern hills, it was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the grandson of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, who commissioned the famous Kinkaku-ji. While its golden counterpart shines with opulence, […]
Aoi-den and Kasui-en（葵殿 佳水園）
Discover the two Hidden Gardens in Kyoto Nestled in the scenic Higashiyama district, Aoi-den and Kasui-en are two exquisite Japanese gardens located on the grounds of The Westin Miyako Kyoto. These gardens are lesser-known gems, offering tranquil beauty and historical charm—open to visitors for free before sunset. Aoi-den（葵殿）was designed by the famous Kyoto garden master […]
Raikyu-ji（頼久寺）
A Tranquil Zen Retreat in Takahashi Located in the charming town of Takahashi, Okayama Prefecture, Raikyū-ji Temple offers a peaceful escape into the world of Zen Buddhism and classic Japanese garden design. This hidden gem is part of the Rinzai Zen school and is best known for its stunning dry landscape garden, crafted by the […]