The old garden I visited in Aizu in Fukushima is one of the celebrated gardens in Japan. Needless to say, Japanese gardens in Kyoto are wonderful. However I am interested in the local gardens.
Although they are less refined than gardens in Kyoto, there is something proper to the region such as the style, trees or stones.
(The main view of the garden)
This garden was built as a villa of the feudal lord at the end of the 17th century. It was the place that had a folktale of a holy spring. Even now, the spacious pond in the garden is filled with abundant clear water. So you'll feel refreshed walking around the pond.
(Above: The 400-year-old creeping pine tree in the front is remarkable)
(Above: Stream from the waterfall, "Me-taki")
(Above: Abundant water flows from the waterfall, "O-taki"into the pond)
There is an island in the center of the pond. It is said that the Sukiya-style summerhouse on the island served as the place where the lords had secret conversations as well as a resting room. It must be the safest place to protect from eavesdropping.
The lords planted for generations medical herbs at a corner of the garden to help their people. That's why this garden has been called "Oyaku-en （御薬園）since then.
(Above: Herb garden)
For inquiries: www.city.aizuwakamatsu.fukushima.jp