Ritsurin Garden: A Stroll Through Three-Star Perfection
Experience Ritsurin: A Unique Wasan Boat Perspective
Hirahō's 飛来峰 Illuminated Panorama: An Evening Delight
The Michelin Green Guide Japan, like other Michelin Green Guides, awards a maximum of three stars to destinations. This rating system is designed to evaluate the worthiness of a site for travelers:
Three stars (⭐⭐⭐): "Worth a special journey" – the highest accolade, reserved for exceptional places that are considered must-visit destinations.
Two stars (⭐⭐): "Worth a detour" – indicates a site that is highly recommended if you're in the area.
One star (⭐): "Interesting" – denotes a place worth seeing if it's convenient.
Ritsurin Garden, located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, is a stunning example of a traditional Japanese strolling garden that has earned the prestigious three-star rating from the Michelin Green Guide Japan. This top rating signifies that the garden is considered "worth a special journey," a testament to its exceptional beauty, historical significance, and meticulous design.
Designed in the chisen-kaiyu-shiki (pond-strolling) style, Ritsurin Garden invites visitors to wander its paths, where the scenery shifts with each step—a concept known as ippo ikkei ("one step, one view"). The garden incorporates the "borrowed scenery" technique (shakkei), using Mount Shiun as a natural backdrop to enhance its aesthetic appeal. Highlights include the picturesque South Pond (Nanko), the crescent-shaped Engetsukyo Bridge, and the Kikugetsu-tei Teahouse, where visitors can enjoy matcha tea while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
Nightfall at Hirahō飛来峰: A Stunning View (YouTube link)
On this autumn day, I visited Ritsurin Garden during the daytime and the evening, using the same entrance ticket. Note that evening opening was a special event during the autumn colors season or other occasions. The photos below are a testament to my special journey through the garden's strolling path.
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