Kiyosumi Garden, located in East of Tokyo, is a traditional Japanese garden known for its beauty and historical significance. Here are its key features:
Rocks and Stones: The garden is famous for its collection of beautifully arranged rocks and stones, sourced from different regions of Japan. These stones are considered some of the best examples of landscape design in traditional Japanese gardens.
Pond and Islands: At the heart of the garden lies a large pond with three small islands. The pond reflects the changing seasons, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Stepping Stones (Iso-watari): The garden features unique stepping stones that allow visitors to walk across the pond, providing an immersive experience of the scenery.
Seasonal Beauty: The garden is planted with various trees and flowers, including cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn leaves, ensuring stunning views throughout the year.
Tea House: Kiyosumi Garden also has a tea house where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Overview of its historical development
- Edo Period Origins:
The site where Kiyosumi Garden now stands was originally part of the residence of a wealthy merchant family during the Edo period. It later came under the ownership of a prominent feudal lord, Kuze Yamatonokami, who developed the area into a garden. - Meiji Period Transformation:
In 1878, Iwasaki Yatarō, the founder of Mitsubishi group, acquired the property and renovated it extensively. He envisioned the garden as a space for entertaining guests and showcasing Mitsubishi’s wealth and cultural appreciation. During this period, many of the rocks and stones that are central to the garden’s design were brought from different parts of Japan. - Great Kanto Earthquake (1923):
Kiyosumi Garden played a crucial role in the aftermath of the Great Kanto Earthquake. Its open spaces served as a safe refuge for residents during the disaster. - Public Park Designation:
In 1932, the Iwasaki family donated the garden to the city of Tokyo, and it was officially opened as a public park. Since then, it has been maintained as a place of cultural and historical significance.
