Guide
Ritsurin Garden is a historic and expansive Japanese garden located near the center of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. Designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, it is nestled at the eastern foot of Mt. Shiun, featuring a masterful arrangement of six ponds and 13 hills. Spanning approximately 75 hectares, the garden retains the prestige of a stroll-style daimyo garden established in the early Edo period. The landscape is home to about 1,000 meticulously manicured pine trees, creating a scenery so profound it is described as 'Ippo Ikkei' (one step, one view)—meaning a new, beautiful vista awaits you with every single step you take. It is a space where natural elegance and human artistry merge perfectly.
The history of this garden dates back to the early 1600s. It is said to have originated from the residence of Sato Michimasu, a retainer of the Ikoma clan, and was later refined by successive lords of the Takamatsu Domain. The first lord, Matsudaira Yorishige, held a deep affection for this land and established his palace here. By 1745, during the era of the 5th lord Matsudaira Yorikane, the '60 Scenic Views' were selected, laying the foundation for the perfected landscape seen today. After the Meiji Restoration, it opened to the public as a prefectural park in 1875, and in 1953, it was designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. It has been cherished for centuries as both a private villa for the Takamatsu lords and a vital cultural heritage of the region.
There are many spots within the garden that captivate visitors. The Southern Garden preserves the atmosphere of an early Edo-period daimyo garden, featuring stone arrangements like the 'Kofuda' which date back to the Muromachi period. The view from the Engetsu-kyo Bridge over the South Pond is one of the most iconic sights in the garden. Additionally, Kikugetsu-tei, a traditional Sukiya-style teahouse, offers a serene space to enjoy the harmony between architecture and nature. For a unique experience, you can take a ride on the 'Senshu-maru,' a traditional Japanese boat, to view the garden from the water level.
Ritsurin Garden reveals a different face in every season. In spring, the garden becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. In summer, you can enjoy lotus flowers and irises, while autumn brings vibrant foliage against the backdrop of Mt. Shiun. The garden also features specimen trees (such as plum, cherry, and maple) that allow visitors to track the precise transition of seasons. The garden is especially magical at night. During the spring cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, special illumination events are held. The sight of the garden floating in the darkness of night offers a mystical beauty that is entirely different from its daytime appearance.
Beyond just viewing the scenery, you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture through various activities. At Kikugetsu-tei, you can experience the spirit of the tea ceremony and the aesthetics of Sukiya-style architecture while enjoying a tea break. A boat ride on the South Pond provides a rare perspective of the landscape from the water. You can also visit the Sanwa Folk Museum within the grounds to learn about the traditional tools and lifestyle of Kagawa. Spending a relaxing time in this lush, historical environment is the best way to enjoy Ritsurin Garden.
The area surrounding the garden is part of central Takamatsu City. It is a great base for sightseeing, with many restaurants and cafes nearby where you can enjoy Kagawa's famous 'Udon' after your stroll. The garden is easily accessible from Takamatsu Station and Takamatsu Port, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring Shikoku. Nearby cultural facilities, such as the Takamatsu Museum of Art, can also enrich your cultural journey.
Since the garden is vast and involves walking around ponds and hills, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. While there are rest areas and teahouses, please bring clothing suitable for the season to manage temperature changes. Regarding payment, cash and credit cards (Visa/MasterCard, etc.) are accepted at various facilities and shops within the garden, though it is best to confirm specific methods on-site. If you wish to use the Japanese boat, please check if a prior reservation is required via the official website. Please respect the historical heritage and enjoy the scenery quietly.