Enjoy the Charms of Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu!
Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is a must-visit destination for foreign tourists in Japan. With over 400 years of history, this park harmoniously blends the beauty of Japanese gardens with rich nature, offering picturesque views throughout the seasons. Let’s delve into the many attractions of Ritsurin Garden.
Access
From Narita Airport
Accessing Ritsurin Garden from Narita Airport is straightforward. First, take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station. From Tokyo Station, transfer to the Shinkansen and get off at Shin-Osaka Station. From Shin-Osaka, take the JR limited express train “Shiokaze” or “Ishizuchi” to Takamatsu Station, which takes about two and a half hours. Ritsurin Garden is about a 10-minute train ride from Takamatsu Station.
From Haneda Airport
Traveling from Haneda Airport to Ritsurin Garden is also convenient. There are direct flights from Haneda Airport to Takamatsu Airport, with a flight time of about one and a half hours. From Takamatsu Airport, you can take a limousine bus to Ritsurin Garden, which takes about 40 minutes.
From Kansai International Airport
From Kansai International Airport, the Shinkansen is the smoothest option. First, take the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service to Shin-Osaka Station. From Shin-Osaka, take the JR limited express train “Shiokaze” or “Ishizuchi” to Takamatsu Station. The total travel time is about three and a half hours. From Takamatsu Station, it’s a 10-minute train ride to Ritsurin Garden.
The Allure of Ritsurin Garden
Beauty of the Japanese Garden
Ritsurin Garden is renowned for its beautiful Japanese garden. The garden features seasonal flowers and trees, offering different landscapes in each season. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and snow-covered scenes in winter make it worth visiting all year round.
History and Culture
Ritsurin Garden was created by the feudal lords of the Takamatsu domain during the Edo period, allowing visitors to feel its rich history and culture. The park is dotted with historic buildings and tea houses, where you can experience traditional Japanese culture. Especially, “Kikugetsu-tei” and “Nanko-tei” tea houses offer matcha and Japanese sweets, providing a taste of the tea ceremony culture.
Vast Grounds and Diverse Areas
Ritsurin Garden spans a vast area of about 75 hectares, divided into multiple sections, each with its unique charm. The “North Garden” offers a serene atmosphere for leisurely strolls, while the “South Garden” features beautiful landscapes centered around ponds.
Shopping and Dining in the Area
Ritsurin Garden is not only about sightseeing but also offers excellent shopping and dining experiences.
Shopping Around Takamatsu Station
The area around Takamatsu Station has many shopping spots. “Kawaramachi FLAG” and “Takamatsu Mitsukoshi” are large shopping malls and department stores offering fashion, goods, and souvenirs. Additionally, the “Takamatsu Station Front Shopping Street” underground has a wide selection of local specialties and souvenirs.
Dining Near Ritsurin Garden
The area around Ritsurin Garden has many dining options. You can enjoy various cuisines, from local Japanese dishes to cafes and Western food. Particularly, Sanuki udon, a specialty of Takamatsu, is a must-try. Inside the park, “Ritsurin Chaya” offers a place to relax and enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets during your visit.
Tourist Spots
Tamamo Park
Tamamo Park in Takamatsu city is also a recommended tourist spot. Built on the site of the former Takamatsu Castle from the Edo period, the park features beautiful gardens and historic buildings. The “Tenshudai” (castle tower) offers a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Takamatsu City Museum of Art
For art lovers, the Takamatsu City Museum of Art is worth visiting. The museum mainly features contemporary art with a variety of exhibitions, including works by local artists. Special exhibitions are held regularly, providing a unique art experience.
Seto Inland Sea Cruises
Takamatsu faces the Seto Inland Sea, offering beautiful ocean views. Cruises from Takamatsu Port provide a chance to explore the surrounding islands. Notably, Naoshima and Shodoshima are popular spots where art and nature blend seamlessly, making them perfect for a cruise visit.
Conclusion
Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu is a captivating destination where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese gardens and rich history and culture. It is easily accessible from Narita, Haneda, and Kansai airports, and offers a wide range of sightseeing, shopping, and dining options. On your next trip to Japan, be sure to visit Ritsurin Garden and fully enjoy its many charms.