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Suizenji Jojuen Garden: A Stroll Through History

Discover tranquility and tradition in Kumamoto's Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a historic landscape with miniature wonders and serene beauty.

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Suizenji Jojuen Garden in Kumamoto is a beautiful Japanese landscape garden with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Created by the Hosokawa clan, it features a miniature Mount Fuji, a teahouse, and a shrine, offering visitors a tranquil escape and a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture.

A brief summary to Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Local tips

  • Visit during spring (late March-April) or autumn (September-November) for the best views of cherry blossoms or colorful foliage.
  • Enjoy a cup of matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets at the Kokindenju-no-Ma teahouse for a relaxing experience.
  • Check the schedule for Noh performances or Yabusame (horseback archery) events for a unique cultural experience.
  • Take your time to stroll around the garden and appreciate the details of the meticulously designed landscape.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on gravel paths.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Kumamoto Station, take the Kumamoto City Tram (bound for Kenguncho) to Suizenji Koen tram stop. The tram ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs ¥180. From the Suizenji Koen tram stop, it's a short 4-minute walk to the garden's entrance. Alternatively, take the JR Hohi Line to Shin-Suizenji Station, a 7-minute train ride costing ¥240. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the garden.

  • Taxi

    From Kumamoto Station, a taxi to Suizenji Jojuen Garden takes approximately 25 minutes and costs around ¥2,500 - ¥3,500, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the station's taxi stands.

  • Walking

    If you are near Kumamoto Castle, you can walk to Suizenji Jojuen Garden in under an hour. Head east, following the main roads, and look for signs directing you to the garden. Note that this is a considerable walk, so wear comfortable shoes.

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Discover more about Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Suizenji Jojuen Garden, located in Kumamoto, is a meticulously crafted traditional Japanese garden with a history stretching back to 1632. Hosokawa Tadatoshi, the first lord of the Higo province, initiated the garden's creation by building Suizenji Temple and a teahouse. His successors, particularly his grandson Hosokawa Tsunatoshi, further developed the garden into its present form, drawing inspiration from Momoyama period design principles. The garden is designed as a 'strolling garden' (kaiyushiki teien), inviting visitors to wander along a circular path and discover its various features. A central pond, fed by the clear springs of Mount Aso, reflects the surrounding scenery. One of the garden's highlights is the artificial hill that represents Mount Fuji, offering a symbolic nod to Japan's iconic peak. The garden also incorporates elements inspired by the Tokaido Road, the historic route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto, with features representing the 53 stations along the way. Key features within the garden include the Izumi Shrine, constructed in 1878 to honor the Hosokawa family. The Kokindenju-no-Ma teahouse, originally built at Kyoto Castle, provides a serene setting for enjoying matcha tea and Japanese sweets while overlooking the garden. The garden also has a Noh theater, where traditional performances are held. Yabusame, a traditional horseback archery ritual, is performed during the spring and autumn festivals of Izumi Shrine. Suizenji Jojuen suffered damage during World War II but was later restored. In 1953, it was designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Historic Site by the Japanese government. Today, the garden is a popular destination for both Japanese and international tourists, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience Japanese history and culture.

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