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On my recent trip to southern Japan I had the pleasure of visiting Suizenji Park. Located in Kumamoto, a green and verdant city in western Kyushu, I found Suizenji to be a real gem of a place that I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to.
Built by the Hosakawa family in the 17th century, it reproduces the 53 stations of the old Tokaido, the famous post road that connected Edo (now known as Tokyo) with Kyoto. Contained within the park is a beautiful clear water pond, a miniature Mt Fuji, an Izumi Shrine, a Noh theatre and a traditional tea-house (moved from Kyoto’s Imperial Palace in 1912).
Strolling around was a real delight, as the vista would subtly change from each and every viewpoint. I also love the fact that high rise buildings ring the outer levels of the garden, reminding you that you are in a city but at the same time giving you the sense of being encapsulated in a small oasis of nature. This brought back memories of the great city parks of London, or (albeit on a much smaller scale) of New York’s Central Park.
What I really enjoyed though was the rich abundance of wildlife that was to be found with this park. The crystal clear waters were teeming with huge Koi Carp and inquisitive turtles. Elegant herons and egrets paraded and stalked, whilst beautiful butterflies flitted from tree and bush. I even spotted a few cute felines skulking and sunbathing in equal measure!
So, if you find yourself in Kumamoto, take some time to stroll around Suizenji Park- I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
