Guide
Kimiidera Garden is a nationally designated scenic spot located within Kimiidera Temple in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City. This garden preserves the landscaping styles of the early Edo period and is characterized by its beautiful use of the natural slope. A key feature is its role as a 'Shoin-niwa' (study garden) designed to be viewed from a room. The sophisticated aesthetic is evident in the use of coastal pebbles—similar to the white sand found in Kyoto temples—and the meticulous raked patterns (samon) left in the sand. The location offers a spectacular vantage point where visitors can gaze out over Suruga Bay, Nihondaira, and the distant mountains of Izu, providing a profound sense of tranquility.
Kimiidera is a historic temple founded in the late 7th century during the Hakuho era. It served as a protector of the Kimi-no-seki checkpoint and later developed as a central temple for the Rinzai sect in the Suruga region. The site has deep connections to Tokugawa Ieyasu; legend says he studied at Kimiidera during his youth in Sunpu, and even provided instructions for the garden's design. Furthermore, the temple holds international cultural significance; 48 calligraphic works left by the Korean mission (Chosen Tsushinshi) during the Edo period are registered in the UNESCO "Memory of the World" register, marking a history of global cultural exchange.
The garden's greatest marvel is the dynamic yet delicate landscape where a waterfall flows into a central pond. The arrangement of stones and trees, said to be directed by Tokugawa Ieyasu, demonstrates a perfect harmony with nature. The architectural-scale highlights are equally impressive. The 'Dai-hofu' (Great Hall) displays numerous plaques from the Korean mission, while the 'Shoin' (study room) contains the 'Gyozan-no-ma' (Imperial Seat), a space that carries immense historical weight. Additionally, from the 'Choon-kaku' pavilion, you can enjoy a grand panorama: the blue waters of Surga Bay and Miho no Matsubara below, with Nihondaira to your right and the Izu mountains to your left. These structures and the garden together form a singular, living work of art.
The garden displays different faces throughout the seasons. In spring and summer, the lush greenery and the sound of flowing water are particularly refreshing, while autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscape. The view is especially striking during midday when sunlight reflects off the pond and highlights the textures of the raked sand. Because the view from Choon-kaku depends on the weather, a clear day will make the blue of Surga Bay appear exceptionally vivid. For those seeking to listen to the sounds of nature in silence, a morning visit is recommended when it is relatively quiet.
Here, you can touch the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics through stillness. By viewing the garden from the historical buildings like the Shoin or Dai-hofu, you can experience the same vistas once admired by poets and statesmen. You can also explore the grounds to find the '500 Arhat' stone statues, adding a layer of historical depth to your walk. While there are no high-energy activities, the harmony of architecture and nature provides a luxurious opportunity for meditation and mental centering.
Several historical spots are scattered around Kimiidera. Within walking distance, you can visit 'Kotsuzu Zagyoso,' a building that retains the charm of the Edo period, to continue your historical stroll. Exploring these nearby areas allows for a deeper immersion into the historical landscape of Shizuoka.
Please dress appropriately for a temple visit. As you will be required to remove your shoes when entering certain buildings, we recommend wearing easy-to-remove shoes and clean socks. Payment for admission is required in cash (Japanese Yen). To maintain the serene environment, please avoid loud conversations and refrain from photography or entering areas where it is prohibited. While English signage is limited, following traditional Japanese temple etiquette will ensure a more respectful and profound experience.