The souls of 2.5 million Japanese soldiers, who lost their lives in various wars from the civil wars in the mid-19th century to the Second World War, are enshrined in Yasukuni Shrine in Kudan, Tokyo. In the back corner of the shrine grounds, the Japanese garden, called Shinchi-teien, is lying in the middle of a promenade around the Honden main building of the shrine. Many people visit the shrine and annexed Yushukan War Museum though, the Japanese garden is known to those in the know as it is located at the far end of the shrine ground. Hence the garden enjoys quiet environment. With full-fledged restoration works in 1999, it has regained the original aspect. The garden, featuring many garden stones arranged to be likened to the natural beauty of deep mountains and dark valleys, is beautifully colored by cherry blossoms, irises, hydrangeas camellias and things like that with the seasons.
In addition, three tea houses are laid out around the garden, and tea parties are hosted there from time to time.
Licensed tour guide, travel consultant,
Masahisa Takaki.
全国通訳案内士 高木聖久。
