Tokyo｜The most beautiful Kiyosumi Garden in Tokyo: The founder of Mitsubishi planted a willow tree and created a beautiful shade

I've visited many Japanese strolling gardens, including the three major gardens and the daimyo gardens, but Kiyosumi Gardens in Koto Ward remains my favorite. The story begins with Iwasaki Yataro, the founder of the Mitsubishi Zaibatsu. In the early Meiji era, he purchased the abandoned land of the garden and began its renovation, initially using it as a guesthouse and a rest area for employees. Later, the successors of the Mitsubishi Group continued to make modifications, bringing in fresh water from the Sumida River and collecting unique rocks from all over Japan, gradually shaping the garden. In 1924, the Iwasaki family donated part of the garden to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and in 1973, the remaining portion was acquired and opened to the public as a Tokyo Scenic Spot Park. Azalea Mountain, nestled in the center of the pond, is covered in azaleas, creating a breathtaking sight every spring. The teahouse was designed by Katsuya Yasuoka, another accomplished architect with close ties to Mitsubishi, and the building has been designated a historical structure by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. You can step on the stones to get closer to the pond, or you can circle it and experience its beauty from different angles. I have to admire the extraordinary aesthetics of the wealthy, even from ancient times. 📍Address: 3 Chome-3-9 Kiyosumi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0024, Japan 🚗A five-minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station. #9月好去地方2025