|
|
 |
Hikone - (north east of Kyoto, Lake
Biwa)
The superb pond garden of Hikone Castle
was constructed in 1677, the beauty of the large pond is enhanced
by the buildings that border it. The Hosho-dai,
where honoured guests of the Li family were entertained, is sited
on a higher level and offers an excellent view of the pond (tea can
be taken here). The Rinchi-kaku projects
over the pond adding it's reflection to the still water. Hikone was
a major stopping point on the old Tokaido Road. |
| The view looking
back at the Rinchi-kaku, with the Castle keep in the background, is
just magnificent. Viewers of the TV adaptation of James Clavell's
Shogun, will note that this location was used in it's filming. |
 |
Uji - (11 miles south of Kyoto)
'Temple of Equality & Impartiality'
1052 - Originally a Fujiwara residence. The
Amitabha Hall, known as the Phoenix Hall,
is one of the very few remaining examples of original Heian architecture,
built in 1053. This pond garden with the ancient Hall at it's centre
is a representation of the Buddhist paradise of the Pure Land sect.
The Hall contains many rare Buddhist images.
Uji, was the site of a famous battle between the Minamoto
and Taira during the Gempei War. On that
occasion the Minamoto were defeated and the noble Minamoto
Yorimasa, committed seppuka
at the Byodo-in. |
If you visit, hope
for a bright clear day as the reflection of the Phoenix Hall in the
pond is a beautiful feature.
Can get Quite busy. |
 |
Takamatsu - (North coast of Shikoku
island)
Former villa of the Matsudaira family.
This large landscaped garden of 134 acres was perfected over 100 years,
completed in 1745. Mount Shiun provides the backdrop in the shakkei
(borrowed landscape) technique. Noted tea house, Kikugetsu-tei,
built 1640c. Fine groomed black pines. Six ponds and 13 small hills
for viewing the superb scenic views.
Also within the park is a folk art museum and
an exhibition centre displaying various crafts. |
| The
ultimate Edo period, strolling pond style garden. |
 |
|
Map of Ritsurin |
|
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
){kind=small}
)
)
)
)