Looking at this garden surrounded by green trees, with koi swimming in the pond, I suddenly felt a sense of happiness from the beauty of everyday life.

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Spring Water Garden “Shimeiso”
A Japanese garden shaped by approximately 3,000 metric tons of spring water each day.
Shimabara has long been blessed with abundant spring water and was once known as the City of Water. Shinmachi, in particular, is known for its residents’ close connection to the springs. As you walk through the neighborhood, you will find waterways filled with swimming carp throughout the area.
Located in this neighborhood, Spring Water Garden “Shimeiso” is a spacious garden covering more than 6,650 square feet. It was created during the Meiji period and is said to have been named for its superb views in all four directions. The garden contains ponds of various sizes, fed by approximately 3,000 metric tons of spring water each day. Carp swim in water so clear that the bottom is visible, while Japanese red pines, maples, and other trees create a breathtaking landscape around the ponds.
The wooden, tile-roofed main house appears to float on the pond, and visitors may sit on the veranda extending over the water. Take your time and savor the refined atmosphere of this garden, which is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.
Highlights
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A spacious garden covering more than 6,650 square feet.
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The garden is fed by approximately 3,000 metric tons of spring water each day.
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Spend a relaxing time in the elegant main house, which appears to float on the pond.
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Carp swim in the garden’s ponds, surrounded by carefully planted trees.
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Registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.
Photos
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The wooden, tile-roofed main house features a traditional Japanese design
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The main house appears to float on the pond
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A garden surrounded by trees, with lively carp swimming in the pond
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Beautiful, crystal-clear spring water
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Sit on the veranda and savor the garden’s refined atmosphere
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Registered by the Agency for Cultural Affairs as a valuable cultural property
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is re-entry permitted?
Yes, under certain conditions.
We may accommodate re-entry upon request if it was too crowded for you to look around at your leisure or if you would like to spend more time taking photographs.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available at the facility?
Yes.
Q
May I eat or drink at the facility? May I bring in food or beverages?
We are sorry, but neither is permitted.
Q
Are coin-operated lockers available?
No.
Q
Are any discounted tickets available?
Yes. The Shimabara Megurin Ticket offers savings while exploring Shimabara.
Q
Are group discounts available?
No.
Q
May I take photographs?
You are welcome to take photographs, but some areas of the garden are off-limits.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 湧水庭園 四明荘
- Postal Code
- 855-0803
- Address
- 2-125 Shinmachi, Shimabara City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Phone
- 0957-62-3986 (Shimabara Port Tourist Information Center)
- Closed on
- Open year-round
- Hours
- 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Admission
- Adults: ¥400; high school students and younger: ¥200
- Access
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Shimabara Station on the Shimabara Railway Line
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)