Rest with matcha tea and Japanese sweets at the tea house linked to Sen no Soan, son of Sen no Rikyu
About this spot
A tea house designated as an Important Cultural Property of Fukushima Prefecture, located in a corner of Tsuruga Castle Park. When Sen no Rikyu, the legendary tea master, faced Toyotomi Hideyoshi's wrath and was ordered to take his own life, Aizu clan lord Gamo Ujisato protected Rikyu's son, Sen no Soan, and devoted himself to the revival of the Sen family. Ringaku is the tea house said to have been built by Soan for Ujisato, and this Aizu location marks the historical foundation where today's three Senke schools (Omote Senke, Ura Senke, and Mushanokoji Senke) continue to thrive—an important chapter in tea ceremony history. The grass-thatch style tea house and its carefully tended garden are serene and deeply atmospheric; just one step into the garden from the bustling castle grounds transforms the surrounding air. Resting with matcha and Japanese sweets while gazing at the garden becomes a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the grandparents who have been walking all day.
Tips
A short walk from Tsuruga Castle keep, located within the castle park. The admission ticket is best purchased as a combined ticket with the keep; check at the castle's ticket office. Matcha with sweets (paid) is served on a veranda, and those uncomfortable with sitting seiza (formal sitting) need not worry. The garden path has stepping stones, so watch your footing carefully.
Best time to visit
Approximately 45 minutes. Perfect timing for tea in the afternoon after touring the keep, and the garden receives lovely dappled sunlight in the afternoon.
Access & map
〒965-0873 Fukushima Prefecture, Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Oite-machi 1-1
Model course featuring this spot
Aizu-Wakamatsu: Tsuruga Castle and Nanoka-machi Retro Stroll
Fukushima
Explore features & model courses
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