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  • Japanese Tea Garden at Kokoen - Kokoen Garden; Kokoen; koko-en; himeji castle garden; himeji garden; japanese stepping stones; tobi-ishi; tobi ishi; skipping stones; flying stones; exterior space; landscape; landscape architecture; idyllic; Tranquility; Simplicity; japanese landscape architecture; exterior space; no people; scenery; tranquil; tranquility; calm; natural light; calming; calmness; peacefulness; serenity; serene; nobody; Soujuan Tea House; Soujuan Teahouse
    koko-en-53.jpg
  • Hakone Garden is the oldest Japanese garden in the Western Hemisphere. The garden is set in eighteen acres of in the hills of Saratoga overlooking Silicon Valley. Visitors to Hakone Garden can experience the calming effect of a Japanese garden in Northern California.
    hakone-garden-4.jpg
  • Hakone Garden is the oldest Japanese garden in the Western Hemisphere. The garden is set in eighteen acres of in the hills of Saratoga overlooking Silicon Valley. Visitors to Hakone Garden can experience the calming effect of a Japanese garden in Northern California.
    hakone-garden-1.jpg
  • Hakone Garden is the oldest Japanese garden in the Western Hemisphere. The garden is set in eighteen acres of in the hills of Saratoga overlooking Silicon Valley. Visitors to Hakone Garden can experience the calming effect of a Japanese garden in Northern California.
    hakone-garden-5.jpg
  • Jisso-in Tsukabaim kakei, water basin, tsukubai, japanese basin, chozubachi, chozuya, temizuya, tsukubai, Japanese Water Basin, Tranquility;  Simplicity; serene, serenity, exterior space, nature, pattern, scenic, visual effect, no people, scenery, tranquil, tranquility, calm, historic sites, natural light, natural beauty, spirituality, simplicity, natural, landscapes, inspiration, inspiring, calming, calms, contemplative, meditative, mellow, peaceful, pleasant, beautiful, calmness,  idyllic, ideal, peacefulness, serenity, serene, nobody,
    tsukabai-60.jpg
  • Kozenji Temple is one of the largest and most important temples in Nagano Prefecture. Its garden is famous as a weeping cherry blossom viewing spot, and it lights up from mid-April to early May during the flowering period.<br />
It is also a renowned spot for autumn leaves, with more than 60 maples in the precinct turn the place into a panoramo of red and yellow.  Kozenji Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot; its calm and quiet environment and scenic beauty the price of Nagano Prefecture thanks to its Tsukiyama garden.
    kozenji-03.jpg
  • Kozenji Temple is one of the largest and most important temples in Nagano Prefecture. Its garden is famous as a weeping cherry blossom viewing spot, and it lights up from mid-April to early May during the flowering period.<br />
It is also a renowned spot for autumn leaves, with more than 60 maples in the precinct turn the place into a panoramo of red and yellow.  Kozenji Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot; its calm and quiet environment and scenic beauty the price of Nagano Prefecture thanks to its Tsukiyama garden.
    kozenji-06.jpg
  • Kozenji Temple is one of the largest and most important temples in Nagano Prefecture. Its garden is famous as a weeping cherry blossom viewing spot, and it lights up from mid-April to early May during the flowering period.<br />
It is also a renowned spot for autumn leaves, with more than 60 maples in the precinct turn the place into a panoramo of red and yellow.  Kozenji Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot; its calm and quiet environment and scenic beauty the price of Nagano Prefecture thanks to its Tsukiyama garden.
    kozenji-04.jpg
  • Kozenji Temple is one of the largest and most important temples in Nagano Prefecture. Its garden is famous as a weeping cherry blossom viewing spot, and it lights up from mid-April to early May during the flowering period.<br />
It is also a renowned spot for autumn leaves, with more than 60 maples in the precinct turn the place into a panoramo of red and yellow.  Kozenji Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot; its calm and quiet environment and scenic beauty the price of Nagano Prefecture thanks to its Tsukiyama garden.
    kozenji-02.jpg
  • Kozenji Temple is one of the largest and most important temples in Nagano Prefecture. Its garden is famous as a weeping cherry blossom viewing spot, and it lights up from mid-April to early May during the flowering period.<br />
It is also a renowned spot for autumn leaves, with more than 60 maples in the precinct turn the place into a panoramo of red and yellow.  Kozenji Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot; its calm and quiet environment and scenic beauty the price of Nagano Prefecture thanks to its Tsukiyama garden.
    kozenji-01.jpg
  • Kozenji Temple is one of the largest and most important temples in Nagano Prefecture. Its garden is famous as a weeping cherry blossom viewing spot, and it lights up from mid-April to early May during the flowering period.<br />
It is also a renowned spot for autumn leaves, with more than 60 maples in the precinct turn the place into a panoramo of red and yellow.  Kozenji Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot; its calm and quiet environment and scenic beauty the price of Nagano Prefecture thanks to its Tsukiyama garden.
    kozenji-05.jpg
  • The main garden at Bishamon-do is called Bansuien or sometimes Yushuien. The Benten Pond behind the main hall uses a natural water spring drawn from Mt Anshoji to create a waterfall in back and a pond in front. In the pond are two islands, and the pond is surrounded by maple trees, crepe myrtle and azaleas. A stone pagoda stands on one of the islands as an accent to the rest of the composition. 
    Bishamon-do-6.jpg
  • Anao-ji Temple Garden is a pond viewing garden where azaleas, crepe myrtles and pine trees haven planted along the rim of the pond. There is a curiously shaped stone in the middle of the pond that some believe represents a ship, though its interpretation is not given. Additionally, there is a smaller dry garden on the western side of the main hall that incorporates Mt. Oshino in the backdrop.
    anao-ji-3.jpg
  • The official name is "Manmatsuyama Ryotanji Zen Temple has a long history, and it is said that Gyoki opened its predecessor, Jizo-ji, in 733 of the Nara period . The name Ryotanji is named after Naomori Ii .  the dry garden in front of the main hall Mt. Potalaka Garden is a relatively new garden created in the Heisei era. The front garden, because of its white sand shape it is popularly known locally as the Lake Hamana Garden.  The main pond-viewing garden on the north side of the main hall is a nationally designated scenic garden created by Kobori Enshu. According to the temple, it was built around 1630. The long horizontal pond is a Shin-ji pond, and the waterfall stone group is represented by a stone group that uses many azaleas, azaleas, and local chert stones in the artificial hill. 
    ryotan-ji-12.jpg
  • Jissoji is an ancient temple built in 1387 during the Nanbokucho period by the first disciple of the Mubun Zen master, Etsuo Zen Master, who opened the temple. The dry garden is a scenic spot designated by Shizuoka Prefecture. Jitsusoji Garden was discovered and rebuilt in 1994 by the Nakane Garden Research & Landscape, a gardening company in Iwata City. It is estimated that the garden was built around 1700 when the adjacent main hall and Kannon hall were maintained. Not only is it beautiful as a stone set and a dry garden, but the combination of these three artificial hills and the scenery of Mt. Mitake is very special.
    jisso-ji-02.jpg
  • Kyoto Prefectural Guest House Garden - This small garden centers around a carp pond with an overlooking teahouse up on a hill in the background. There is a small waterfall that cascades into the pond from an artificial hill in the northeast corner. Natural stepping stones surround the pond, leading up to the teahouse. Both the garden and teahouse were designed and created by landscape architect Masuno Shunmyo.
    kyoto-prefecture-hall-garden-06.jpg
  • Kyoto Prefectural Guest House Garden - This small garden centers around a carp pond with an overlooking teahouse up on a hill in the background. There is a small waterfall that cascades into the pond from an artificial hill in the northeast corner. Natural stepping stones surround the pond, leading up to the teahouse. Both the garden and teahouse were designed and created by landscape architect Masuno Shunmyo.
    kyoto-prefecture-hall-garden-04.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-55.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-20.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-2022-17.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-2021-EXTRA-101.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-82.jpg
  • Taima-dera - the Inner Temple is called Okunoin and contains a Pure Land or Jyodo Garden rare in Japan. It is the largest garden representing the paradise shown in Taima Mandala with peonies and other flowers blooming  throughout the year.  Kobo Daishi was a visitor at this peony garden and deemed it Pure Land of this World. At Sainanin Temple which originated as a guardian temple of the back gate.  Three Gods of Mercy kannon are worshipped in the main hall here. In the Sainanin garden built during the Edo period, sound of suikinkutsu adds to the special atmosphere of the garden.  Nakanobo Temple is the oldest temple at Taimadera and contains the largest Buddha in the Taimadera complex.  It abounds in cultural properties such as Koguen Garden - a favorite of Emperor Gosai encompases a tea ceremony house with a round window.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-27.jpg
  • Kongorinji  Garden - These 500-year old gardens have been designated a Place of Scenic Beauty and it’s no wonder. Beautiful in any season.  The Ikezumi strolling garden at Kongorinji known as Myojuin though its creator is unknown, is especially popular during autumn.  This pond-viewing garden is intended to be viewed from the main hall, but these three combined gardens are connected as one, and the feeling of a strolling garden that goes around gardens of different times is now stronger because of it.  The colorful autumn leaves in deep red in late autumn are wonderful, it is the most spectacular garden in the three mountains of Koto.
    kongorinji-garden-1.jpg
  • Zuishin-in Pond Garden - Zuishin-in is a quiet temple removed from the Kyoto city center in Yamashina.  The temple is also called the Mandala Temple after a legend in which the founding priest’s mother had been reincarnated and had a priest make a mandala.  The famous poet Ono no Komachi is also strongly  connected to this temple, and items related to her are scattered around the temple halls and the gardens.  The garden is known for its small pond and abundant use of moss.  Zuishin-in’s appeal is in its seclusion, with the exception of the famous flowering plum season for which it is known.  Zuishinin temple belongs to the Shingon sect of Buddhism
    zuishin-in-1amber-2.jpg
  • Kaitokukan Tokyo University Garden - Marquis Toshinari Maeda, the 16th head of the Maeda Clan of the Kaga Domain, built a stately Western residence in the neo-baroque style in 1907 for receiving imperial visits. In 1926, the University of Tokyo reached an agreement with Marquis Maeda through which this residence and its property would be given to the University in exchange for University property in Komaba. The University named the residence Kaitokukan East Pavilionand used it as a facility for welcoming distinguished guests. In 1945, as a result of an air raid, the residence was completely destroyed. Kaitokukan was rebuilt in 1951 as a Japanese-style residence. The new Kaitokukan uses stones from the original Western-style residence in its foundation, while wood for the building was supplied by the University’s forests. The garden was designed by Hikoemon Ito, the Maeda Clan’s gardener. As well as the common characteristics of Japanese gardens from the late Meiji to Taisho periods, as well as the remains of the gardens built by the former lord of the Edo period in the modern city center of Tokyo. It is precious and has high artistic value in the history of modern Japanese gardens.  Kaitokukan is only open to the public one day of the year, on Todai's homecoming day, mid October each year.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-8.jpg
  • Shomyoji was built by Sanetoki Hojo during the Kamakura period, and was made the Hojo family temple of the Kanazawa area. The Jodo style garden with Ajiike Pond in front of the main temple is its most unique feature when considering the arched bridge. The temple's bell was portrayed in the woodblock print "Shomyo-no-Bansho," one of eight prints depicting views of Kanazawa by Hiroshige Utagawa.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-218.jpg
  • The strolling garden at Kyorinbo was designed by Kobori Enshu during the Momoyama period . It is open for a limited time every year only on weekends and holidays in spring and in autumn.The pond-viewing garden facing the main hall where Tsurushima and Kameshima are represented by numerous rocks on the slope, the moss attached to the stone makes one feel the depth of history. There is also Kakejiku Garden that you can see from inside the main hall. In front of the Enshu Garden, the place where you can enjoy the bright red autumn leaves built at the end of the Muromachi period.  Kyorinbo was founded by Prince Shotoku. The temple name Kyorin is derived from the fact that the prince preached in the forest, and a large preaching rock and a sacred cave enshrining the principal image are left in the precincts. It is also called Stone Temple.
    kyorinbo-4.jpg
  • Shobo-ji  Zen Garden - Shobo-ji was established in 754 by a monk called Chii - a disciple of Ganjin, who built Toshidai-ji in Nara.  Like many temples in Kyoto, Shobo-ji was burned during the wars, then reconstructed in 1615. The temple has two interesting zen gardens, particularly the "Beasts and Birds Garden” named after the shape of some of its rocks. The temple grounds are elevated compared to the rest of the valley, which gives a view of the surrounding area wthat incorporates borrowed scenery such as the distant mountains into the overall garden design.  Shobo-ji pays particular attention to flowers; ikebana can be seen on the temple grounds and in the buildings. In addition, the tsukubai water basin is usually decorated with flowers as well.
    shobo-ji-amber.jpg
  • Jinnein Temple Garden - Jinnein shares a compound with next door Kannon-ji Temple No. 69. Jinneiin was transferred here by borrowing due to the law of separation of Buddhism and Shintoism.  If you look down on Ariake beach from the temple, you can see a coin-shaped circle made of sand, called Zenigata which was built in 1633 in imitation of a coin of the Kanei period.  Jinnein shares the compound with Kannonji Temple, temple 69.
    Jinnaen-2.jpg
  • Saikyoji Garden - altogether there are four distinct gardens surrounding the temple’s main hall.  The most famous one is the Hyakuden Teien pond garden designed by Kobori Enshu during the Ido Period,  The pond is supposed to represent Lake Biwa nearby (others contend that the pond is in the shape of a rose)  with its backdrop slope punctuated with stones and satsuki bushes.  Adjacent to the pond is a sukiya style teahouse, an addition added during the Meiji Period that is almost never open to the public.   The second garden is called Dai Honbo Teien - its style is quite different from the Hyakuden Garden as it is composed of bushes in the tsukiyama style - its unique feature is of stepping stones embedded in the white sand “sea”. The third garden is the Shoin Teien, which is a dry garden created during the Meiji Period, and is composed of Sakamoto style masonry and stones.  The fourth main garden is Yashoiun Teien or Back Shoin Garden which was created much more recently by Shigetaro Nishimura a local landscaper and is considered a pond appreciation garden.
    saikyoji-12.jpg
  • Water is considered purifying in Japan, hence the emphasis on cleanliness in everyday life. Water fountains such as these, known as tsukubai, are also beneficial to hear the trickling of falling water to soothe the nerves as well. A tsukubai is a small basin provided at Japanese Buddhist temples for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth. This type of ritual cleansing is also the custom for guests attending a tea ceremony. Tsukubai are usually of stone, and are often provided with a small scoop, laid across the top, ready for use.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-226.jpg
  • Kongorinji  Garden - These 500-year old gardens have been designated a Place of Scenic Beauty and it’s no wonder. Beautiful in any season.  The Ikezumi strolling garden at Kongorinji known as Myojuin though its creator is unknown, is especially popular during autumn.  This pond-viewing garden is intended to be viewed from the main hall, but these three combined gardens are connected as one, and the feeling of a strolling garden that goes around gardens of different times is now stronger because of it.  The colorful autumn leaves in deep red in late autumn are wonderful, it is the most spectacular garden in the three mountains of Koto.
    kongorinji-garden-2.jpg
  • Mio Shrine is a shrine in Takashima City and although its construction is unknown, it is an old shrine that has a record of existence from the year 765 in the Nara period.  There is a very unique three dimensional garden and double layer with two tiers, which occupies much of the domain, was completed in 1996.  It is called Mizuo Garden, though its designer is unclear.
    mio-shrine-garden-06-2.jpg
  • Seiganji Garden is characterized by the use of moss to represent water. It was built with the scenery of Mt. Tao as a borrowed landscape.  After heavy rain, the underground water seeps out and the dry landscape garden transforms into a pond garden. This Edo period garden is a two-sided garden that is extremely rare in Japan. The scenery where lush moss sinks on the bottom of the water and reflects off the surface of the water is truly exceptional beauty. When the Rakurakuen in Hikone Castle was built, stones were taken away from Seiganji though later a vassal of the Ii family who built Rakurakuen and Genkyuen Gardens, rebuilt it at the request of the priest at the time.  Seiganji is a Nationally Designated Scenic Spot.
    seiganji-amber-3.jpg
  • The Nawikawa Cloisonné Museum is located in a small villa lost in the narrow streets south of Heian Jingu. This residence, built in 1894, was the home of Namikawa Yasuyuki an artist of the Meiji and Taisho periods. Namikawa started his career of cloisonné artist at 28. Cloisonne is an old technique for decorating metallic objects. It consists in building wire frame enclosures in which enamel of different colors is poured. Every outline of every coloured region in the drawing is first delimited by wires, then enamel is poured and the piece is cooked, and finally polished. The museum has around 130 pieces from Namikawa. Namikawa earned a few international prizes, among which is the Exposition Internationale de Paris. This made him famous worldwide and resulted in many foreigners visiting him in Kyoto. The villa also has many sliding partitions that use glass instead of rice paper which was very unusual at the time. Besides the museum, the villa has a nice photogenic garden with a pond that reaches under the main building making it appear to float upon the pond.
    namikawa-cloisonne-garden-09.jpg
  • Bread and Espresso Garden has been renovated as a cafe from Former Kobayashi House a 210-year-old tangible cultural property designated by Kyoto Prefecture.  The thatched building was originally located in a rural area of Sonobe and relocated to the current location of Arashiyama.  The garden itself, which was created in the center of the store site, is a very new garden designed specifically to enhance the structures.
    kobayashi-espresso-chocolate-1.jpg
  • Hiunkaku garden was created during the Taiso Period.  The garden is composed of two tsukiyama or miniature artificial mountains, punctuated by very large granite landscaping stones - most of which are placed in a way to be used as stepping stones which can be found throughout the garden.  Although the giant stones are very evident in the design, the gardens most outstanding feature is often overlooked, that of a dry riverbed known as a kare-gawa.  Few of the Takamatsu castle's original buildings remain only the Asahimon Gate and two turrets, the Ushitora Yagura and the Tsukimi Yagura, still stand. Inside the castle walls, however, visitors can enjoy a well kept garden.  At the center of the castle park stands the Hiunkaku with large tatami rooms overlooking the garden. Constructed in 1917 as a residence and governmental office, it is used today as an exhibition space and a community hall where tea ceremony and flower arrangement classes are held.
    hiunkaku-01.jpg
  • 78.5 Engakuji 円覚寺 is the main temple of the Engakuji sect of the Rinzai Buddhist sect. Engakuji is one of the leading Zen temples in eastern Japan and ranks second among Kamakura's five great Zen temples. Its unique garden was restored in 1969 according to an old drawing. Zen Buddhism regarded gardens as microcosms of the natural landscape and this is a fine example.
    78.5.TENTATIVE-KAMAKURA-ENGAKUJI-02.jpg
  • 23. Daigo-ji 醍醐寺 Within its grounds, Daigo-ji houses eighteen of Japan’s National Treasures. Among them are buildings belonging to Sanbo-in famous for the quality of its Japanese garden.  The garden was laid out with a large pond, paths and bridges and said to contain over 700 stones.  Sanbo-in was designed for viewing from a specific perspective within the temple’s buildings. Laid out in the Momoyama period, the garden’s islands depict ‘fortuitous crane’, the ‘tortoise’ and the ‘"isle of eternal youth’ - poetic terms that show stones and ponds can be poised in a prescribed, esoteric relationship.
    23.KYOTO-DAIGOJI-02.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-18.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-17.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-15.jpg
  • Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-14.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    AMBER-2022-C-47.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    AMBER-2022-179.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-07.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-01.jpg
  • Ritsurin Trail within this magnificent landscape garden in Takamatsu.  It is  thought to be one of the finest gardens in Japan.  The garden boasts many features such as trails, teahouses, ponds, hills and pavilions set by Mt. Shiun providing a kind of borrowed scenery.
    ritsurin-garden-09.jpg
  • Dogakuji Pond Garden at Dogakuji Bangai Temple,  The temple's official name is Tomei-zan and it is ranked second out of the 20 Fudasho Bangai - temples not included in the official list of the temples making up the Shikoku 88-temple Pilgrimage. The name Dogaku-ji “Child's Learning Temple” relates to the fact that Kobo Daishi studied calligraphy and other academic disciplines as child; praying at the temple was believed to bring academic success. Within the temple grounds there is a sacred spring which is reputed to have sprung forth from the ground when Kobo Daishi prayed for water to wash his ink-slab with. Near the head priest's quarters there is a shoin-style Japanese garden which is believed to have been created in the Muromachi period
    Dogakuji-Bangai-2.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-36.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-35.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-24.jpg
  • Ritsurin Iris Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-21.jpg
  • Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional Japanese sukiya teahouse, on the shores of Nanko South Pond, at Ritsurin, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-23.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-21.jpg
  • Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional Japanese sukiya teahouse, on the shores of Nanko South Pond, at Ritsurin, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-19.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-13.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-9.jpg
  • Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional Japanese sukiya teahouse, on the shores of Nanko South Pond, at Ritsurin, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-7.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-2.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-1.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    tsurugaoka-garden-08.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    tsurugaoka-garden-07.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    tsurugaoka-garden-03.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-14.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art is made up of the private collection of Zenko Adach who collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  He was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and  stone for the garden himself from all around Japan.  In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision. Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shoisai Project.
    adachi-garden-06.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-05.jpg
  • The Adachi Museum of Art was based on the private collection of Zenko Adachi.  Adachi collected Japanese paintings, ceramics and scrolls.  Adachi himself was an aficionado of Japanese gardens and collected each pine tree and each stone for the garden himself from around Japan.   In this way he created a beautiful garden filled with his own vision and passion.  Adachi believed that Japanese gardens were "as beautiful as pictures” and even framed one of the gardens in one of the museums rooms as if it is a painting itself. Adachi Museum Garden has been selected as the best garden in Japan year after year since 2003, by the Journal of Japanese Gardens Shisai Project.
    adachi-garden-03.jpg
  • Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. It was built by close relatives of the Tokugawa Shogun in the early Edo Period..Like most traditional Japanese gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen attempts to reproduce famous landscapes from China and Japan in miniature, using a pond, stones, plants and a man made hill.
    koishikawa-korakuen-23.jpg
  • Ninomaru garden was designed by the famous landscape architect and tea master, Kobori Enshu. It is located between the two main rings of fortifications, next to the palace of the same name. The garden has a large pond with three islands and features numerous carefully placed stones and topiary pine trees.  Nijo Castle and its garden are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    ninomaru-7.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-06.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lord during the Edo Period and considered one of the most esquisite gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features ponds, hills and pavilions set in the woods which acts as background and a textbook example of borrowed scenery.
    ritsurin-garden-16.jpg
  • Ritsurin is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-garden-21.jpg
  • Unpenji - Temple 66 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage-   Although Unpenji is much closer to the population centers of Ehime and Kagawa prefectures, but it is officially a part of Tokushima prefecture.  Unpenji temple is a Sekisho temple, a sort of spiritual checkpoint to ensure sincerity, and also a difficult one to reach.  What is the most impressive at Unpenji temple is the expressive and lifelike 500 Arhats - saints who gathered for the Buddhist Councils when the Buddha reached Nirvana. The expression of each 500 Arhati is different from each other. Some look thoughtful, some fierce, and a few with smiles. At 911 meters above the sea level, Unpenji is at the border between Tokushima and Kagawa Prefectures. Standing on the mountain, visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the Sanuki plain, the Inland Sea and the mountains of Tokushima.
    temple-66-umpenji-7.jpg
  • Kichijoji is Temple No. 63 on the pilgrimage standsing between busy Route 11 and the JR railway line, with a number of tall trees growing in its precincts, which give it a luxuriously leafy atmosphere.  Every temple has a votive image representing something of Buddhist significance, and Kichijo-ji is unique in having a Bishamon statue. Bishamon is one of the Seven Lucky Gods revered in Japan. They originated in India and China from various Hindu and Taoist backgrounds. Bishamon’s wife is Kichijo, and the temple takes its name from her. Bishamon is a warrior who serves as guardian of the places where Buddha preaches. There's a little eight-sided building with a Chinese look which holds statues of the six lucky gods other than Bishamon.  In the grounds of the temple, you’ll see a stone with a hole in it - it’s said that if you put your kongozue or pilgrim’s staff into it, your prayers will be granted.
    temple-63-kichijoji-7.jpg
  • Senyuji Pilgrim Trail - Senyuji Temple is No. 58 on the Shikoku pilgrimage and one of the more impressively located pilgrimage temples standing on a hillside 1,300 feet above sea level which means that pilgrims who walk to it have quite a climb. The guardian statues in the gateway below the temple are impressive. Behind the daishi-do is a flight of concrete steps which leads up into the hill behind the temple. This path passes through pleasant woods of evergreen and trees including sasa bamboo. It’s lined at intervals with attractive Buddhist statues. The path leads to a hilltop with panoramic views of Imabari, the Shimanami-Kaido suspension bridge and the Seto Inland Sea. For this walk, sensible shoes are a must.  Sadly In 1947, all of the buildings built by Kobo Daishi between 810-824 burned down in a forest fire. They were rebuilt from 1953.  Senyu-ji is one of six pilgrimage temples located relatively close together in Imabari.
    temple-58-senyuji-13.jpg
  • Enmeiji is temple No. 54 on the Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage, dedicated to children lost in childbirth or aborted. The temple is unique in having two separate bell towers in its precincts. The temple was founded by Gyoki, and later restored by Kukai. It was renamed Enmeiji because it had previously had the same reading as No. 53 Enmyoji during the Meiji era. After several wars, they relocated the temple and settled at their present location.  Enmeiji is also called “The Temple of Long Life” and has been at its current location since 1727. Prayers for health and a long life are given here.
    temple-54-enmeiji-4.jpg
  • Ryukoji is Temple 41 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage and is located on a steep hillside with a fine view down a pastoral valley. Kukai is said to have founded it in 807.  The temple, which is associated both with dragons and rice which are celebrated in Japan’s native religion, also includes an attractive Shinto shrine in its precincts.  Ryuko-ji stands on a hillside up a steep flight of stone steps in a valley. The real interest at Ryuko-ji lies beyond the unremarkable temple buildings further up the hill where the shrines are. At the top of the stairs is a shrine to the Inari or fox deity, whose shrines are typically red. Its official name is Banfudasho Inariyama Gokokuin Ryuko.
    temple-41-ryukoji-2.jpg
  • Ishite-ji - Temple 51 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of the oldest and most beloved of all the 88 temples.  is considered to be one of the most spectacular of all the 88 temples along the trail. The sprawling Ishite-ji temple compound is composed of several halls, a three-storied pagoda and a unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. The dimly lit cave is remarkable in and of itself though dark and spooky. Ishiteji is known for its Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure.  All of these structures exhibit typical architectural style of the Kamakura Era.
    temple-41-ishiteji-45.jpg
  • Ishite-ji - Temple 51 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of the oldest and most beloved of all the 88 temples.  is considered to be one of the most spectacular of all the 88 temples along the trail. The sprawling Ishite-ji temple compound is composed of several halls, a three-storied pagoda and a unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. The dimly lit cave is remarkable in and of itself though dark and spooky. Ishiteji is known for its Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure.  All of these structures exhibit typical architectural style of the Kamakura Era.
    temple-41-ishiteji-42.jpg
  • Ishite-ji - Temple 51 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of the oldest and most beloved of all the 88 temples.  is considered to be one of the most spectacular of all the 88 temples along the trail. The sprawling Ishite-ji temple compound is composed of several halls, a three-storied pagoda and a unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. The dimly lit cave is remarkable in and of itself though dark and spooky. Ishiteji is known for its Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure.  All of these structures exhibit typical architectural style of the Kamakura Era.
    temple-41-ishiteji-37.jpg
  • Ishite-ji Gate - Ishiteji is Temple 51 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of the oldest and most beloved of all the 88 temples.  is considered to be one of the most spectacular of all the 88 temples along the trail. The sprawling Ishite-ji temple compound is composed of several halls, a three-storied pagoda and a unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. The dimly lit cave is remarkable in and of itself though dark and spooky. Ishiteji is known for its Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure.  All of these structures exhibit typical architectural style of the Kamakura Era.
    temple-41-ishiteji-32.jpg
  • Kobo Daishi Statue at Ishite-ji - Ishiteji Temple 51 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of the oldest and most beloved of all the 88 temples.  is considered to be one of the most spectacular of all the 88 temples along the trail. The sprawling Ishite-ji temple compound is composed of several halls, a three-storied pagoda and a unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. The dimly lit cave is remarkable in and of itself though dark and spooky. Ishiteji is known for its Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure.  All of these structures exhibit typical architectural style of the Kamakura Era.
    temple-41-ishiteji-9.jpg
  • Shoruji is temple No. 36 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, located on a peninsula jutting into the Pacific Ocean. Pilgrims used to have to reach the temple by ferry, but in 1975 a bridge was built. The deity of the temple is is venerated as the guardian of fishermen. Shoryuji is known as the “Green Dragon Temple”. The environment is fantastically beautiful with bamboo forests and stairs dotted with statues and path markers. Shouryuuji is truly a highlight for any pilgrim. This temple houses the fierce “Dragon Fudou”.
    temple-36-shoryuji-5.jpg
  • Chozubachi Water Basin at Shoruji - temple No. 36 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, located on a peninsula jutting into the Pacific Ocean. Pilgrims used to have to reach the temple by ferry, but in 1975 a bridge was built. The deity of the temple is is venerated as the guardian of fishermen. Shoryuji is known as the “Green Dragon Temple”. The environment is fantastically beautiful with bamboo forests and stairs dotted with statues and path markers. Shouryuuji is truly a highlight for any pilgrim. This temple houses the fierce “Dragon Fudou”.
    temple-36-shoryuji-1.jpg
  • Jizo at Sekkeiji i- Temple 33 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage and can be translated as, “Snowy Cliff Temple”. This temple is one of only three Zen temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Legend has it that this place was home to a long-suffering ghost who woke up the monk, Geppou, saying “Even the water is weary of living.”  Geppou spoke to the apparition who was attempting to recall a poem from which these lines come. Once the poem was completed, the ghost disappeared having now been relieved of trying to recall the missing lines. In the 16th century it changed to a Rinzai Zen temple, now one of only three Zen temples on the pilgrimage.
    temple-33-sekkeiji-3.jpg
  • Lotus Pond at Joruriji - temple No. 46 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.  It stands among fields on a gentle slope in the south of Matsuyama.  The temple building is largely hidden from view by the tall trees that surround it. These ancient junipers are thought to be about 1,000 years old.  The grounds are composed of a beautiful, well-tended garden. Next to the main hall is a wisteria bower next to lotus ponds. The temple is believed to have a lot of divine favors, so it is also referred to as "Handyman of divine favors"Emon Saburo came from this area, and a stone monument is engraved with a haiku written by Masaoka Shiki.
    temple-46-jororiji-11.jpg
  • Dogakuji Pond Garden at Dogakuji Bangai Temple,  The temple's official name is Tomei-zan and it is ranked second out of the 20 Fudasho Bangai - temples not included in the official list of the temples making up the Shikoku 88-temple Pilgrimage. The name Dogaku-ji “Child's Learning Temple” relates to the fact that Kobo Daishi studied calligraphy and other academic disciplines as child; praying at the temple was believed to bring academic success. Within the temple grounds there is a sacred spring which is reputed to have sprung forth from the ground when Kobo Daishi prayed for water to wash his ink-slab with. Near the head priest's quarters there is a shoin-style Japanese garden which is believed to have been created in the Muromachi period
    Dogakuji-Bangai-1.jpg
  • Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional Japanese sukiya teahouse, on the shores of Nanko South Pond, at Ritsurin, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-22.jpg
  • Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional Japanese sukiya teahouse, on the shores of Nanko South Pond, at Ritsurin, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-20.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-16.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-11.jpg
  • Ritsurin Pond Garden - Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-10.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-4.jpg
  • Engetsukyo Bridge at Ritsurin - a landscape garden in Takamatsu  built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan,  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-3.jpg
  • Kikugetsu-tei is a traditional Japanese sukiya teahouse, on the shores of Nanko South Pond, at Ritsurin, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Ritsurin Garden is a landscape garden in Takamatsu built by the local feudal lords during the Edo Period. Considered one of the finest gardens in Japan.  Ritsurin features many ponds, hills and pavilions set in front of wooded Mt. Shiun which serves as a background and example of borrowed scenery and Japanese gardening design.
    ritsurin-5.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    tsurugaoka-garden-11.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    tsurugaoka-garden-10.jpg
  • The pond at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the one of the most famous spots in Kamakura for sakura viewing. The Five Peony Garden at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - The garden was created in 1980 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.  The peony garden features, in addition to 5 species of peony, large stones amongst which peonies are planted. These stones were a gift to the shrine from the Chinese government. Traditionally, peonies were always planted in China with special stones that come from the Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China.  This garden was laid out by Chinese workmen along traditional lines.
    tsurugaoka-garden-09.jpg
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