

Seiryu-en Garden / Nijo Castle
Seiryu-en Garden at Nijo Castle is a garden that was created during the late Edo period to the early Meiji period and is part of Nijo Castle. It was constructed using part of the former residence of Ryoi Suminokura. The eastern half is a Western-style garden, while the western half is a traditional Japanese garden with a pond-stroll design. The garden was completed in 1965, using notable stones and stones donated by patrons. This garden is known as a beautiful blend of Japanese and Western elements, designed in the style of a stroll garden with a large pond. Seiryu-en is divided into two main areas: the Large Pond Garden and the Small Pond Garden. The Large Pond Garden features a typical Japanese garden layout with a vast pond at its center, surrounded by stone bridges, artificial hills, and tea houses. In contrast, the Small Pond Garden incorporates more Western design elements, reflecting the atmosphere of the Meiji era. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery within the garden, with the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage being particular highlights. Seiryu-en is cherished by both tourists and locals as a place where one can experience the history and beauty of Kyoto in a tranquil setting. Nijo Castle itself is a historic structure built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603 as a defensive stronghold in Kyoto, and Seiryu-en plays an important role in enhancing the overall beauty of the castle.