Igokono Ochaya

Overview

Igokono Ochaya's origins trace back to when Nonao Mizo-guchi, the third feudal lord of Shibata Domain, built a villa on the site of a temporary residence used by the first feudal lord, Hidekatsu Mizo-guchi, upon his entering the domain. Later, under the fourth feudal lord, Shigeo Mizo-guchi, a garden was created with the help of the bakufu's garden specialist, Ken Sōchi, and the villa became a teahouse. During the Edo period's sankin-kotai (alternate attendance) system, the feudal lord would travel in full regalia from Shibata Castle to Igokono, changing into travel attire there. He also allowed his vassals to use the grounds, where they reportedly held tea ceremonies. The current building dates back to 1814 (Bunka 11), and was restored in 1999 (Heisei 11). The refined Sukiya-style building and beautiful pond garden, designed in the chisen kaiyūshiki style, are designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. The garden features ponds, artificial hills, and trees, offering a tranquil and elegant space where you can enjoy the changing scenery of each season. There are also a tea room and rest areas for relaxation. It's a recommended spot to appreciate the beautiful scenery while experiencing the history of the Shibata Domain. Igokono Ochaya, located in Igokono, Shibata City, is a historic garden used by successive feudal lords of the Shibata Domain for rest and tea ceremonies. During the Edo period, the feudal lord is said to have paraded from Shibata Castle to Igokono for the sankin-kotai system, changing into travel clothes here. Now designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty, it offers a quiet and elegant space where you can appreciate the beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. The garden features ponds, artificial hills, and trees, making it enjoyable even just to stroll through. There are also a tea room and rest areas for relaxation. It’s a recommended spot to enjoy the beautiful scenery while experiencing the history of the Shibata Domain.