Centuries of history whisper through the carefully placed stones of Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden. This is Tokyo’s beautifully designed garden. Today, we explore this green oasis surrounded by skyscrapers. It is a surviving Edo-period clan garden.
Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden was once part of Tokyo Bay. The land was reclaimed in the 17th century. Okubo Tadamoto, a Tokugawa shogunate official, built his residence here in 1678. The garden was initially known as Rakujuen. It even had a beach. Over time, Tokyo expanded. The sea was reclaimed. The garden lost its direct connection to the ocean.
Ownership changed hands. In 1875, the Imperial Household Agency acquired the residence. It became the Shiba Detached Imperial Villa. A European-style guesthouse was added in 1891. Disaster struck in 1923. The Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed all buildings and trees. In 1924, the site was donated to Tokyo City. It was rebuilt and opened to the public that same year.
The heart of Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is the Sensui Pond. This pond was originally saltwater. Land reclamation changed it to freshwater. The pond has four islands. Nakajima is the central island. Ukishima, Oshima, and Yukimi-toro are smaller. Bridges connect visitors to Nakajima and Oshima. The pond’s design draws inspiration from West Lake in Hangzhou, China. Rocks on Nakajima represent West Lake’s mountains.
Let’s ascend Oyama hill. It is the highest point in Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden. From here, a stone-made dry waterfall flows. It is called Karetaki. Nearby, a stone lantern marks a spot for snow viewing. Though snow is rare in Tokyo. In early May, the wisteria trellis is a highlight.
Plants abound in Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden. Japanese black pines and azaleas dot the landscape. Wildlife also finds refuge here. Little egrets and ducks are common sights. Carp swim in the pond. Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden provides a contrasting view. High-rise buildings surround this Edo-style garden. It is a reminder of Tokyo’s blend of old and new.
Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is more than just a garden. It is a journey through time. It’s a place where feudal lords strolled. It is a place where emperors once resided. It is a place for us to enjoy. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty around us.