In the early Edo Period, in 1629, the founder of the Mito Tokugawa family, Yorifusa, maintained a separate Edo residence, the garden of which was completed during the reign of the second clan ruler, Mitsukuni. This garden features a central pond and hills, making it perfect for a stroll.
When Mitsukuni set about constructing the garden, he incorporated some concepts of the Chinese Confucian scholar Shushunsui of the Ming dynasty, including a garden reproduction of Seiko Lake (China), a "Full Moon Bridge" and other features with cultural origins in China.
The name of the garden, "Korakuen," came from a Chinese text in Hanchuen's "Gakuyoro-ki" admired by Mitsukuni which said that there is "a need for those in power to worry about maintaining power first and then enjoy power later." Thus, the name Korakuen, meaning "the garden for enjoying power later on," was chosen.
Highlights of Koishikawa Korakuen Garden are its bridges, maple and pine groves, ponds, flowering shrubs and trees.
Times and Prices
300 Yen
Daily 09:00 - 16:30
Location
Koraku 1-6-6, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-0004
(Near Tokyo Dome)
How to Get There
Iidabashi Station (3 - 5 Minute walk)
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