Outside the inner moat of Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture is a beautiful garden that was designed in 1677 for the pleasure of the lord and his guests. It was inspired by Tang Dynasty gardens, and consists of a central pond with four islands connected with bridges, and a path around the perimeter. Hikone Castle creates a stunning backdrop throughout the year. It is especially beautiful when cherry trees are in bloom and when fall colors are at their peak.
There is a tea house next to the lake where guests can relax and enjoy a tea and sweets for 500 yen.
Matcha break at Genkyu-en garden
The garden is open from 8:30 am to 5 pm; the teahouse is open from 9 am to 4 pm. There is a 200 yen admission fee to the garden, or you can buy a combined ticket with admission to the castle as well. Genkyuen Garden is located at the northeast side of the hill on which Hikone Castle stands, just outside the inner moat. It can be reached from Hikone Station in around 20 minutes by walking.
Genkyu-en garden
photos by: unertlkm & unertlkm
