Koishikawa-Korakuen

Koishikawa-Korakuen is a large garden located in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan. The total area of the garden is approximately 17 acres.

The large garden is quite significant to the history and culture of the land as it is one of the oldest parks in Japan. Dating back hundreds of years ago, the garden displays the true authentic culture of the Tokyo area prior to any modernization. It is a western style garden.

The beautiful scene of the garden is displayed inside a well crafted original fence. Once entering there are many bridges, pathways, benches, hand carved lanterns, and special made pieces creating a remarkable sight. Most of the bridges, and some pathways, can not be walked on since they were created in the gardens earliest days using rare and precious stones, woods, and tools. Preserving the original pieces to the garden has become top priority.

Things to See

• The Hitotsumatsu Pine Tree There is an incredibly large Hitotsumatsu Pine Tree in the garden which has been uniquely shaped using wooden supports to create the ‘perfect’ shape for the tree. This site is remarkable as it shows the true dedication maintaining the simple beauties of the land.

History

The plan for Koishikawa-Korakuen Garden was originally crafted by Tokugawa Yorifusa around the year 1629. While his ideas for the land were magnificent it did not include many of the features his heir Mitsukuni had in mind. Once taking power of the land in the mid 1600’s, Mitsukuni expanded and enhanced the creation. Building bridges, creating better landscaping, and having handmade pieces placed in the garden turned it into an even greater place to relax.

When plans for Tokyo were laid out it was determined that of the 63 acres only 17 would be saved for the garden. This was a disappointment to many however all seemed willing to work out a solution to preserving what was reasonable. After coming to an agreement, the Koishikawa-Korakuen Garden was officially established as a Historic Site of Interest making the remainder of the garden untouchable.

Access

Koishikawa-Korakuen Garden is accessible using the Toei Subway Oedo Line reaching Iidabashi Station. Once you have reached the station you must walk 3 minutes to the park gates.

Address

Koraku 1-6-6, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo

External Links

Official Site (English)