Summer is over, and autumn is drawing, which means leaves of trees are getting red colored. You can see beautiful autumn leaves around Japan, of course in Tokyo. And one of the most famous spots is Rikugien Garden. During the season, the maple trees are lit up with illumination from the evening there. It seems too difficult to view such a elegant scene in other countries. Plus, the garden is also known for the big Shidare Sakura (weeping cherry) tree in spring.
History
Yoshiyasu Yanagisawa, a Japanese samurai of the Edo period (1603–1868) created the Rikugien Garden in 1702. He served Tsunayoshi Tokugawa, the 5th Tokugawa Shagun, and was a favorite of him. The shogun gave him the site which the garden was based on. It was designed to reflect a part of traditional Waka poetry, a kind of poetry in classical Japanese literature.
As for the name RIKUGIEN, Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association says this:
The name “Rikugien” refers to a system for dividing Chinese poetry into six categories. This system also influenced the division of Japanese Waka poetry as well. Although the number six is usually read “roku,” in the case of the garden’s name, it is pronounced “riku” in keeping with the Chinese pronunciation of the word.
View Points
Nakanoshima
The main spot you should take a photo on the illumination time. Trees and autumn tints on the floated tiny island are mysteriously lightened up with the illumination.
Tsutsuji-chaya teahouse
The autumn leaves from the teahouse are perfect to feel the beautiful old-world flavor.
Fukiage-chaya teahouse
This is another teahouse, and you can drink Macha (green powdered tea) for JPY510 in the more modern house. Get relaxed overlooking the pond.
Fujishiro-toge hill
For the whole garden viewing, climb on the top of this Fujishiro-toge hill.
Best Season: Late Novermber to early December
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Rikugien Garden
Address: 6–16–3 Hon-komagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113–0021
Nearest Station: 7 minutes walk from Komagome Station/Exit: South exit (JR Yamanote line)
Search this word “Rikugien”on Google Map
Hours: 9:00–17:00 everyday (except 29th December to 1st January)
Admission fee: JPY300
Website of the Rikugien Garden↓↓↓
Rikugien Gardens | Let's go to the Gardens.
Rikugien Gardens,Gardens,Tokyo Metropolitan Park Associationteien.tokyo-park.or.jp
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