Shimizu Garden (清水園)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A scenic stroll garden created as the subsidiary villa of the Shibata clan lord, Mizoguchi family, and designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. Centered around a large pond with pines and stepping stones arranged throughout, the view from the veranda of the study resembles a single brush painting. Various tea houses with distinct character are scattered throughout the garden, and as you walk among the landscape that changes with the seasons, you can experience the refined atmosphere characteristic of a castle town. Across the street stands a thatched-roof foot soldier's quarters (designated as a National Important Cultural Property), and viewing it together provides a three-dimensional sense of life in the castle town.

Tips

Admission is approximately 700 yen for adults. The garden paths feature gravel and stepping stones, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. It is within walking distance of Shibata Station and only a few minutes by car from Shibata Castle, making it easy to visit both. The foot soldier's quarters across the street has great atmosphere even with just external viewing, so if you have time, definitely see them together.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. The morning light is soft and the garden looks particularly beautiful.

Access & map

〒957-0056 Niigata Prefecture, Shibata City, Daiei-cho 7-chome 9-32