🗺️ Ritsurin Garden栗林公園

Ritsurin Garden, located in Kagawa Prefecture, was once the villa of the Takamatsu feudal lord Matsudaira family. After continuous renovations and expansions by successive lords, it was finally completed about 300 years ago. The park covers a vast area, including Mount Shiun behind the garden, with a total area of 75 hectares, of which approximately 16 hectares are flat land. It is the largest garden designated as a cultural property in Japan. The entire park is designed as a pond-and-hill style garden. There are six ponds and thirteen artificial hills distributed throughout the area. Known for its "one step, one view" beauty, every step taken offers a chance to enjoy the varied scenery. The view from the artificial hill "Hiraik peak" is particularly stunning, allowing visitors to take in the park's representative attractions all at once. The garden features over 1,400 meticulously pruned pine trees, including the "Konegashi Goyomatsu," which has grown from a bonsai during the Edo period into a towering tree, along with many elegantly shaped pines, making it a major highlight of the park. In addition to being awarded the highest honor of three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, the park is frequently featured on various domestic and international websites. It is recommended to visit the teahouse "Kikutei," which has been favored by successive feudal lords, to enjoy matcha while admiring the beautiful garden, spending a moment of luxurious bliss.

Japan's largest garden, particularly renowned for the beauty of its pine trees. It has been awarded the highest three-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide to Japan. The view from the artificial hill "Hiraifune" is quite spectacular, making it the best spot for photography within the garden. There are many souvenir shops and dining establishments available. Visitors can take a boat tour on Lake Minami to experience the elegant and noble feeling of the former feudal lords.