Yusentei Park: A Stroll Through History and Tranquility

Yusentei Park, located in Fukuoka, is a historical Japanese garden that provides a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and reflection. Built in 1754 during the Edo period, it served as a secondary residence for Kuroda Tsugutaka, the 6th lord of the Fukuoka domain. The park opened to the public in 1981, becoming the first Japanese garden in Fukuoka to offer a stroll around a central pond. In 1998, it was officially designated as a place of scenic beauty by the city.The garden is designed in the *chisen kaiyu-shiki* style, a strolling garden centered around a scenic pond. The pond is the focal point, surrounded by lush greenery and flowering plants. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, passing by maple trees (vibrant red in autumn), Japanese pine trees, and stone lanterns. One notable lantern is the rare Kirishitan lantern, a reference to Kuroda Yoshitaka, a Christian daimyo lord from the 16th century. You'll also find a waterfall and koi carp swimming in the pond.In the main building, dating back to the Showa era (1926-1989), visitors can enjoy a cup of matcha green tea with wagashi confectioneries in a large tatami room called Ohiroma. The Ohiroma hall offers an unobstructed view of the pond, creating a serene atmosphere. Two tea rooms, Josui-an and Shozan-an, also offer tea. The park's name, Yusentei, comes from a poem by Kuze Michinatsu, which translates to 'A retreat built to accompany the gushing spring water does not know unbearable heat'.