Shimizuen

清水園

A Masterpiece of Japanese Landscape Design

Shimizu-en is a stunning daimyo-style strolling garden said to incorporate design elements inspired by the famous Omi Hakkei (Eight Views of Omi). It is believed to have been created during the Kanbun era (1661–1673) by Sotomo Agata, a tea master of the Enshu school and a garden designer for the shogunate.

In 1891 (Meiji 24), this exquisite garden came under the ownership of the Ito family from Sawami Village—one of Echigo’s most prominent landowning families. Later, in 1946 (Showa 21), the Northern Culture Museum Foundation assumed management of the property. At that time, renowned gardener Taian Tanakama meticulously restored the entire Shimizudani Goten (Shimizudani Palace), giving Shimizu-en the magnificent form we see today.

Highlights of Shimizu-en
Breathtaking Views from the Shoin
Take in the garden’s beauty from the Shoin (traditional drawing room), where feudal lords once sat. This offers a unique, ground-level perspective of the landscape—an ideal spot for quiet reflection.

Picturesque Strolling Paths
Wander through the spacious grounds and discover countless scenic vistas. Three beautifully arranged tea houses enhance the tranquility and charm of your journey.

Historic Rice Granary (Komegura)
Upon returning, you’ll find a massive rice granary once used to collect sakudokumai (land tax rice) from the Ito estate. Today, it houses valuable materials related to the Shibata Domain and exhibits honoring Horibe Yasubei, one of the Forty-seven Ronin.

Dining at Komegura Cocoro
Savor a meal at Komegura Cocoro, a charming restaurant located within the former rice granary, blending history and hospitality.

For more details, please visit the official websites:
http://hoppou-bunka.com/shimizuen/index.html