Ritsurin Garden

Kagawa

Gardens & Nature

Cultural Immersion & Activities

# Garden

# Boat Ride

# Teahouse

# Places of Scenic Beauty

The Kikugetsutei teahouse and pond viewed through the red and orange autumn foliage of foreground trees.

The interior of the Kikugetsutei teahouse with tatami mats, wide wooden veranda, and sliding doors, offering a direct view of the garden pond.

A bright yellow arched bridge over a pond, with koi fish swimming below and a pink cherry tree blooming on the right bank.

The Engetsukyo (Crescent Moon Bridge) arching over a pond in Ritsurin Garden, with a small boat nearby, surrounded by lush green foliage.

Key Points

Stroll through Japan’s largest designated cultural garden, a masterpiece of “background scenery”
Sip matcha in the historic Kikugetsu-tei teahouse, feeling as if you are floating on the water
Enjoy a traditional boat ride on the South Lake for unforgettable, picture-perfect views of the landscape

Ritsurin Garden, located in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, is a cultural property designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Starting in the 16th century the garden was developed, and around 1642, Matsudaira Yorishige (the first lord of the Takamatsu domain) began work on its design and restoration. Serving as the Matsudaira clan’s private villa for over two centuries during the Edo period, the garden was finally completed in 1745 after more than 100 years of meticulous development.
This prime example of an early Edo period strolling garden features six ponds and thirteen artificial hills. Its design masterfully employs a technique known as “background scenery”, integrating the backdrop of Mt. Shiun into its vast landscape. Notable structures include the Kikugetsu-tei, a grand teahouse appearing to float on the water, and the Engetsu-kyo bridge. The garden is also known for its collection of approximately 1,400 pine trees, including 1,000 that are artfully sculpted by gardeners.
Opened to the public in 1875, Ritsurin Garden today offers visitors an immersive experience. Guests can enjoy traditional boat tours on the South Pond, partake in a tea ceremony at Kikugetsu-tei, and explore the Sanuki Folk Craft Museum on the grounds. Its exceptional beauty has earned it a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.

Information

Spot information including address, access, and website
Address	1-20-16 Ritsurin-cho, Takamatsu City, Kagawa
Access from Tokyo	(1) From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen Nozomi to Okayama Station (approx. 3 hr 15 min). (2) At Okayama Station, transfer to the Seto-Ohashi Line Rapid Marine Liner (via Yosan Line) to Takamatsu Station (approx. 51 min). (3) At Takamatsu Station, transfer to the Kotoku Line Local to Ritsurin-Kōen-Kitaguchi Station (approx. 6 min). (4) From Ritsurin-Kōen-Kitaguchi Station, walk to the Ritsurin Garden (approx. 4 minutes). Show route from Tokyo Station
Website	https://www.my-kagawa.jp/static/en/ritsurin/
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