Guide
Kofuen, located adjacent to Kofune Shrine in Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture, is a magnificent stroll garden covering approximately 25,000 坪 (approx. 82,600 square meters). The garden is characterized by its ingenious use of the natural terrain and the crystal-clear waters drawn from the headwaters of the Oashi River. Upon entering, you are greeted by an overwhelming sense of scale, where the surrounding mountains feel as though they have been seamlessly integrated into the garden itself. This landscape, which reveals a different face with every season, serves as a profound expression of traditional Japanese aesthetic sensibilities.
Kofune Shrine is a site of deep historical significance, with a founding history dating back approximately 1,300 years. The enshrined deity is Yamato Takeru-no-mikoto, and the shrine has long been revered as a site for prayers regarding fire prevention, bountiful harvests, and family safety. The shrine is also known as the "Shrine of the Tengu," as the Tengu (a legendary creature in Japanese folklore) is considered the messenger of the deity. Historically, the area played a vital role in the Nikko Shugendo tradition, deeply connecting the site to mountain worship. Kofuen Garden was designed to harmonize perfectly with this spiritual and historical landscape.
The garden features beautiful ponds and winding paths designed to showcase the natural topography. The view where the flowing water, lush greenery, and surrounding mountains unite is particularly breathtaking. Visitors can also explore several structures that showcase Japanese architectural beauty, such as the tea house Seihotei, the Mihon-an (which mimics the Urasenke style tea house), and the newly rebuilt Mine-no-Chaya. In these spaces, you can enjoy traditional Japanese tea and seasonal refreshments while gazing out at the exquisite garden scenery.
Kofuen offers a completely different experience depending on when you visit. In spring, the garden is adorned with blooming cherry blossoms. Early summer brings vibrant fresh greenery along with colorful azaleas and irises. In summer, the lush, refreshing greenery provides a sense of relief, while autumn transforms the garden into a brilliant tapestry of red and gold foliage. The autumn colors are especially famous and are one of the most striking times to visit. For photography enthusiasts, the bright daylight hours offer beautiful reflections on the pond surfaces. For a relaxing experience, the calm afternoon hours are ideal for enjoying tea at the tea houses.
Visitors can engage with traditional Japanese tea culture firsthand. At the tea houses Mihon-an or Seihotei, located by the pond, you can enjoy tea while contemplating the landscape. At Mine-no-Chaya, you can experience the elegance of Japanese architecture while enjoying seasonal sweets and light snacks. Combining a stroll through nature with these cultural experiences offers a deeper understanding of Japanese heritage.
Kofune Shrine and Kofuen Garden are situated in the pristine headwaters area of the Oashi River. This region is surrounded by abundant nature and several historical shrines. Including this area in your Tochigi sightseeing itinerary allows you to experience both the natural beauty and the historical depth of the Kanuma region.
Because the garden is quite vast, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. When visiting the tea houses, please observe traditional Japanese etiquette, such as removing your shoes and maintaining a quiet atmosphere. While major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) are accepted, it is wise to carry cash for smaller tea house purchases. English signage is limited, so we recommend checking basic information in advance. Photography of the scenery is welcome, but please follow local instructions regarding photography inside the tea houses and sacred shrine areas.