Guida
Nakatsu Banshoen is a magnificent 5-hectare stroll-style (Chisen Kaiyu-shiki) daimyo garden located in Nakatsu, Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture. Created during the Edo period by order of Kyogoku Takayoshi, the lord of the Marugame Domain, the garden is a masterpiece where natural beauty and man-made artistry blend seamlessly. The centerpiece is the Hakkei Pond, designed to resemble Lake Biwa, allowing visitors to enjoy a scenic stroll around its perimeter. Additionally, the site features the Marugame Museum, offering a unique cultural experience where you can appreciate Western paintings and ceramics alongside the traditional Japanese scenery.
The history of this garden dates back to 1688 (Jokyo 5). It was designed to pay homage to the home region of the Kyogoku clan, incorporating motifs from Lake Biwa in Omi Province. The islands within the pond are arranged to represent the "Eight Views of Omi" (帆, 雁, 雪, 雨, 鐘, 晴嵐, 月, 夕映), creating a poetic landscape. The name "Banshoen" is derived from the concept of "all things in nature" (Shinra Bansho). The garden's design even accounts for historical tidal movements, showcasing a deep connection to the natural environment. Since its public opening in 1982, it has served as a vital cultural hub for preserving historical landscapes and art.
The most iconic feature is the "Hakkei Pond," a beautiful expanse that recreates the scenery of Lake Biwa. The vermilion-painted "Getsu-kyo Bridge" adds a striking splash of color to the landscape. Other significant structures include the "Kansho-ro" tea house and the historic-style main buildings. The