Ritsurin Koen ('chestnut grove') was begun in 1625, using a site by the South Pond with a view of Mount Shiun. In 1953 the park was designated a Japanese National Treasure. The garden was restored c1741 and is now a good example of an Edo period (1615-1868) stroll garden. It has a famous Crescent Moon Bridge. The garden was used as a summer villa for tea ceremonies, moon viewing, poetry composition and drinking games. There is also a dry garden with a stepping stone path.
Head Gardener's Comment
We try hard to make Ritsurin one of the best gardens in Japan.
