Kiyosumi Teien

Welcome to Kiyosumi Teien, a masterpiece of the Meiji-era landscape that stands as a unique departure from the more traditional gardens of the Edo period. As we enter this sanctuary, it is essential to understand the 'Kiyosumi'…

Let us pause to examine the 'meiseki' stones that line the path. These are not merely decorative elements; they are the protagonists of the Kiyosumi narrative. …

At the heart of the garden lies Shinji-no-ike, the 'Heart-Letter Pond,' named for its shape which resembles the kanji character for 'heart' or 'spirit.' This body of water is more than just a visual centerpiece; it is a complex…

One of the most engaging features of Kiyosumi Teien is the 'Iso-watari,' or path of stepping stones that cross the shallows of the pond. As you step onto these large, flat stones, your relationship with the garden changes. …

Beyond the pond, the ground rises into artificial hills, known as 'tsukiyama.' These hills serve several purposes: they provide a vantage point to look down upon the pond, they hide the boundaries of the garden to create an…

Near the entrance of the garden stands a stone monument inscribed with the most famous haiku by Matsuo Basho: 'The ancient pond / A frog jumps in / Sound of the water.' While the pond in the poem was not this specific one, the…

As we complete our circuit of Kiyosumi Teien, let us reflect on the unique position this garden holds in Tokyo's landscape. It is a bridge between the Edo period's appreciation for strolling gardens and the Meiji period's…