Ritsurin Koen（高松栗林公園）
A Masterpiece of Strolling Garden Design in Takamatsu
Located in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Ritsurin Koen (栗林公園) is one of Japan’s most celebrated strolling gardens. With its vast grounds, tranquil ponds, and seasonal beauty, this historic site invites visitors to take their time and enjoy traditional Japanese aesthetics in motion.
Construction began in 1625 under local daimyo Ikoma Takatoshi, and the garden was completed in 1745. Meaning, it took over a century to reach its final form, reflecting the changing tastes of the Edo period. Each generation added new features, creating a space that blends power, elegance, and nature.
Ritsurin Kōen is famous for its six interconnected ponds, joined by small streams that lead you through the garden like a gentle journey. In addition, a charming tea house invites you to pause and enjoy matcha while overlooking the scenery. Furthermore, the garden also features an artificial hill. There you can find a man-made waterfall, and beautifully trimmed pine trees that reflect centuries of care.
No matter the season, Ritsurin Kōen offers something special. Hence, cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vivid foliage in autumn, and the serene calm of winter reflections all offer memorable views. Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours here to truly experience its atmosphere.
Located close to downtown Takamatsu, Ritsurin Kōen is easy to reach and well worth the trip. Therefore, it’s perfect for photography lovers, history fans, or anyone who wants to slow down and enjoy traditional Japanese beauty.
Gallery
Want to know why it’s NOT one of the Three Great Gardens?
Directions
How to get to the garden
3 min walk from JR Ritsurin-koen-kitaguchi Station (栗林公園北口).
Address
- JP: 〒760-0073 香川県高松市栗林町１丁目２０−１６
- EN: 1-20-16 Ritsurin-cho Takamatsu City、Kagawa－Ken
Telephone 087-833-7411
Opening times
From sunrise to sunset.
January 7:00 – 17:00
February 7:00 – 17:30
March 6:30 – 18:00
April 5:30 – 18:30
May 5:30 – 18:30
June 5:30 – 19:00
July 5:30 – 19:00
August 5:30 – 19:00
September 5:30 – 18:30
October 6:00 – 17:30
November 6:30 – 17:00
December 7:00 – 17:00
Admission fee
- Adults 500 yen
- Elementary and junior high school students 170 yen
- Annual and group passes are available
Facilities & Accessibility
Ritsurin Kōen is wheelchair accessible along most main paths, and rental wheelchairs are available at the entrance. Rest areas, accessible toilets, and staff support make it a friendly destination for all visitors.
Best time to visit
The best times to visit Ritsurin Kōen are spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms, and autumn (late November) when maple leaves turn vibrant red and gold. Early mornings offer the most peaceful experience and soft lighting for photography.
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