I originally thought I was just visiting a Japanese garden, but the moment I entered Sankeien Garden, I was blown away by its grandeur!
This isn't simply a place to “see some flowers and trees.” Historic buildings from Kyoto, Kamakura, and other places were relocated here and combined with lakes, mountains, forests, and flowers to create a massive classical Japanese painting.
What impressed me most wasn't actually the scenery, but founder Hara Sankei's vision and boldness. Back in 1906, he dared to undertake such a huge “relocating historic buildings + landscaping a garden” project. It seems wild even now, let alone back then!
The grounds are far too large to describe as “taking a quick stroll.” Along the way, there are historic buildings such as the three-story pagoda and Rinshunkaku, and you'll find yourself constantly stopping to take pictures. Each season offers different scenery, with cherry blossoms, lotus flowers, and fall foliage each having their own charm.
If you enjoy traditional Japanese architecture, gardens, and traveling at a leisurely pace while taking pictures, Sankeien Garden is definitely worth setting aside half a day to fully experience this “historic garden that changes with the seasons.”
