What is Ritsurin Garden?
Ritsurin Garden (Ritsurin-kōen) is one of Japan’s representative daimyo gardens, located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, and is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government.
The garden has a history of over 400 years and features the beautiful landscape developed by the lords of the Takamatsu domain during the Edo period.
Occupying a vast area of 75 hectares, the grounds contain six ponds and 13 landscaped hills, with flowers and trees that charm visitors throughout the seasons.
Its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery have led many to describe it as “a different world the moment you step inside.”
Highlights of Ritsurin Garden
1. Landscapes that exemplify the beauty of Japanese gardens
Ritsurin Garden is divided into two areas, the South Garden and the North Garden, each offering a different atmosphere to enjoy.
The South Garden, in particular, is a prime example of a pond-centered strolling garden (chisen kaiyū-shiki), offering new discoveries with each visit.
The North Garden presents a different charm as a space where Japanese and Western elements are fused.
2. Flora and trees that color the four seasons
The garden’s spectacular seasonal scenery is one of its main attractions.
- Spring: Cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom in full, creating a festive landscape.
- Summer: Lush greenery stands out, and the pond surfaces bring a refreshing feel.
- Autumn: The fall foliage turns beautiful colors, offering many picture-perfect spots.
- Winter: Snow-covered scenes and winter flowers create a calm, almost magical atmosphere.
3. A special experience at the teahouse "Kikugetsutei"
The teahouse "Kikugetsutei" inside the garden offers a chance to experience traditional Japanese culture.
You can enjoy matcha and wagashi (Japanese sweets) while admiring the garden spread out before you for a luxurious moment.
4. Beauty comparable to Japan’s Three Great Gardens
Ritsurin Garden is highly regarded both domestically and internationally as rivaling Japan’s Three Great Gardens (Kenrokuen, Korakuen, Kairakuen).
Its scale and the completeness of its design will convince you of its appeal once you visit.
5. Nighttime light-up events
During seasonal, limited-time nighttime light-ups, the garden is bathed in a fantastical glow.
Ponds and trees are illuminated, presenting a different face from daytime and creating a special experience.
How to get there
By car
- About 15 minutes from central Takamatsu
- About 20 minutes from the Takamatsu Nishi IC or Takamatsu Chuo IC on the expressway.
- There are several paid parking lots near Ritsurin Garden.
- About 1.5 hours from Okayama City
- Use the Seto-Chuo Expressway to access Takamatsu.
By public transportation
- From JR Ritsurin-Koen-Kitaguchi Station
- About a 5-minute walk to the North Gate.
- From Kotoden Ritsurin-Koen Station
- About a 10-minute walk to the Main Gate.
How to enjoy Ritsurin Garden
1. Stroll the South and North Gardens
Take your time and slowly explore the grounds.
In the South Garden especially, walk around the ponds to fully appreciate the seasonal natural beauty.
2. Enjoy matcha at Kikugetsutei
At Kikugetsutei you can savor matcha and wagashi while gazing at the garden.
It’s a great opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture.
3. Visit photo-worthy spots
There are many picturesque spots throughout Ritsurin Garden.
Don’t miss the bridges and ponds in the South Garden, or the scenery during the autumn foliage season.
4. Enjoy local cuisine
There are many udon shops—Kagawa’s specialty—around the park.
Sampling local flavors after a stroll is highly recommended.
5. Join seasonal events
Enjoy seasonal events such as the spring cherry blossom festival and autumn foliage light-ups.
Nighttime light-ups are especially atmospheric and worth visiting.
Useful information for travelers
- Opening hours
- Generally from sunrise to sunset (opening hours vary by month).
- Hours may be extended for special events.
- Admission fees
- Adults 500 yen, elementary and junior high students 170 yen (as of 2025).
- Group discounts and annual passes are also available.
- Recommended clothing
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- In summer, bring a hat and drinks.
- Notes
- There are few trash bins inside the garden, so please take your trash home with you.
- Pets are restricted; check the rules in advance.
Conclusion
Ritsurin Garden is a representative tourist destination in Kagawa Prefecture, filled with a vast site, beautiful scenery, and cultural charm.
It is a special place where you can experience the essence of Japanese gardens while enjoying the seasonal natural beauty.
When you visit Kagawa, be sure to spend a relaxing, restorative time at this famous garden!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How much time do I need to visit Ritsurin Garden?
If you want to leisurely explore the whole garden, allow about 2–3 hours.
If you plan to take a break at Kikugetsutei, give yourself extra time.
Q2. What seasons are recommended?
Spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage are especially popular, but summer greenery and winter snowy scenes are also impressive.
Q3. Is eating allowed inside the garden?
There are restaurants and teahouses in the garden, but eating is permitted only in designated areas.
Enjoy Kagawa’s nature and culture to the fullest at Ritsurin Garden!
