Ritsurin Garden

Ritsurin Garden is an extensive garden in the Ritsurinchō district of Takamatsu, classified as a daimyō garden and designated a special scenic beauty site. It spreads across gentle hills with ponds, gravel paths and stepping stones, as well as carefully shaped trees that group around several connected bodies of water.

The site began taking shape in the early 17th century on the orders of a local feudal lord, who had the area transformed into a private garden. Later rulers added new sections and refined the design over more than a century.

The name translates roughly to "Garden of Chestnut Grove", though today ancient pines dominate the view. Guests may stop at several teahouses and gaze across still water surfaces with islands and stone lanterns.

The entrance sits centrally and paths are mostly level, making the site suitable for longer walks. Guests should wear sturdy shoes and allow enough time to reach the different viewpoints.

The pines are pruned using traditional techniques where gardeners guide branches with ropes and shape them over decades. Some of the trees bear names that describe their form or position in the landscape.

Location: Ritsurinchō

Inception: 1625

Founders: Ikoma Takatoshi

Official opening: March 16, 1875

Fee: Yes

Part of: 100 Best Historical Parks in Japan, 100 Best Urban Parks in Japan

Opening Hours: December-January Monday-Sunday 07:00-17:00; February Monday-Sunday 07:00-17:30; March Monday-Sunday 06:30-18:00; April-May Monday-Sunday 05:30-18:30; June-August Monday-Sunday 05:30-19:00; September Monday-Sunday 05:30-18:30; October Monday-Sunday 06:00-17:30; November Monday-Sunday 06:30-17:00

Phone: +81878337411

Website: https://my-kagawa.jp/fr/ritsurin

GPS coordinates: 34.32958,134.04389

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:09