SIGHTSEEING

A Symphony of Seasons: Discovering the Serenity and Beauty of Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture

2023.10.30

In Ritsurin Garden, located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of various seasons, illuminated by the glow of lights on the autumn leaves and cherry blossoms, along with a thousand pine trees.

This garden, designated as a national place of scenic beauty, spans the largest area amongst cultural heritage gardens in the country and was completed nearly 300 years ago. Set against the lush greenery of Shiunzan Mountain, the garden masterfully arranges six ponds and thirteen artificial hills, creating an exceptional stroll garden rich in the elegant beauty of trees and stones, complemented by skillful land division and stone arrangements. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a boat ride on the South Lake, surrounded by the serene ambiance of the garden in every season.

The Beauty of Each Season

From the plum blossoms of early spring to the cherry blossoms in spring, flowers bloom in sequence throughout the year, creating a landscape that changes with every step, accompanied by a thousand beautifully maintained pine trees. The garden is especially enchanting during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, with nighttime illuminations providing a magical view different from the daytime.

Savoring Delights while Admiring the Elegant Garden

The Kaketsu-tei Tea House, loved and cherished by generations of feudal lords, is a sukiya-style building constructed in the early Edo period. It is the largest among the various tea house-style buildings in the park, once referred to as “Ochaya” (large tea house). Here, you can enjoy matcha and sencha tea accompanied by seasonal sweets, all while taking in the stunning views of the garden throughout the year.

Taking a Break at the Garden Cafe Ritsurin

At the Garden Cafe Ritsurin, you can relish in dishes that highlight the exquisite flavors of fresh seafood and mountain delicacies from Kagawa Prefecture, all in a tranquil Japanese setting. Immerse yourself in the “green tranquility,” “artistry of the garden,” and “history of culture” at this space, and experience the hospitality cultivated through the region’s tradition of welcoming guests. Savor the fresh seasonal ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea to your heart’s content.

Garden Cafe Ritsurin Official Website: http://ritsurincafe.com/

Opening Days: Open Daily

Opening Hours: From sunrise to sunset, with varying times throughout the year

Access:

– About 7 minutes by car from JR Takamatsu Station
– 20 minutes on foot from JR Ritsurin Station
– 3 minutes on foot from JR Ritsurin Park North Gate Station
– 10 minutes on foot from Kotoden Ritsurin Park Station
– 1 minute on foot from Ritsurin Park Mae Bus Stop
– About 30 minutes by car from Takamatsu Airport
– About 20 minutes by car from Takamatsu Nishi IC
– About 15 minutes by car from Takamatsu Chuo IC

GoogleMap

Official Website: https://www.my-kagawa.jp/ritsuringarden