RITSURIN GARDEN

A historical garden, a scenic marvel, Ritsurin Garden is located in Takamatsu, Japan. The garden was completed in the year 1745. It is the largest Cultural Property Garden in Japan. Apart from being a famous tourist attraction, the garden is an important cultural asset. 

It was originally created in the Edo period for the daimyo (feudal lord). Today, during your Japan tour, it is one of the most scenic gardens in Japan. The garden features six ponds and thirteen landscaped hills in front of Mt. Shiun. The most unique highlight of the garden is its change in scenery throughout the seasons. There is a small folk craft museum and a beautiful tea house by the name of Kikugetsu-tei. 

There are about 300 cherry trees, mostly Somei Yoshino. Their reflections on the lake and the green pine trees create a stunning view. In spring, special lighting enhances the beauty, and you can enjoy nighttime boat trips on Lake Kitako.

Highlights

• Admire the most fascinating garden of Japan, Ritsurin Garden, which is famous for its changing landscapes.
• Stroll around the pond and be mesmerised by the 13 unique landscaped hills.
• Enjoy delicious Matcha tea (powdered green tea) at the Kikugetsu-tei teahouse in the garden while enjoying the picturesque landscape.
• Visit the Folk Craft Museum, Sanuki Mingeikan, and enjoy the exclusive folk crafts exhibited in the museum.
• Take a Japanese-style Wasen Boat Ride, led by one of the garden’s boat guides, to enjoy views of the garden.

How To Reach

Ritsurin Garden is approximately 2 km from Takamatsu Station. It is not far from the city centre of Takamatsu.

• By Train: Take the Kotoden Kotohira Line from Takamatsu-Chikko Station. Get off at Ritsurin-Koen Station, it takes about 10 minutes to reach there. From the station, it's a short walk to Ritsurin Garden.
• By Bus: Take a local bus from JR Takamatsu Station or Kawaramachi Station heading towards Ritsurin Garden. Get off at the Ritsurin-Koen-mae bus stop. Walk up to the Ritsurin Garden.
• By Taxi: For a more convenient option, you can take a taxi directly from Takamatsu city centre to Ritsurin Garden. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
• By Foot: If you want to walk up to the garden, it is about a 30-minute walk from the city centre. 

Best Time To Visit

• Best Time to Visit: The scenic Ritsurin Garden is open all year round. Its opening and closing hours change every month. But it is almost in between 7 AM to 6 PM. There is an entry fee for adults and children, separately. 
• Best Season to Visit: The prominent feature of Ritsurin Garden is its changing scenery in all seasons. Autumn and spring are especially more scenic and colourful. The best season to visit the garden is in autumn when the hues of red, yellow, and orange cover the entire garden with pleasantly mild weather.
• Best Day of the Week: Weekdays usually have fewer visitors compared to weekends, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience. Visiting on weekdays will help you avoid the rush of people and fully appreciate the beauty and tranquillity of the garden.
• Best Time of the Day: To enjoy the scenic views of the garden, one must visit the place either in the early morning or late afternoon. Early in the morning light enhances the beauty of the garden and the evenings and its soft light makes it beautiful with a play of light and shadows.

Other Essential Information

• Wear comfortable shoes as the garden requires a lot of walking.
• Be considerate of nature and do not litter or vandalise the place. 
• Make a reservation at the teahouse.
• Check the opening hours before visiting the garden.