SUIZEN-JI JOJU-EN, Kumamoto City
Don Pylant
September, 2001

Suizen-ji Joju-en garden is located in downtown Kumamoto. Lord Tadatoshi Hosokawa began construction of the garden in 1636 as a tea retreat. It was once the home of Suizenj Temple, and now Izumi Shinto Shrine and Nougakudou - Noh Theater. Hosokawa selected the site for the spring-fed pool that provided excellent tea water. The Tea Arbor and Kokindenju Room are nearly 400 years old. The garden contains a symbolic 53 Stations of Tokaido Road.

1. Enjoying the view and a good book in front of the Noh Theater.

2. A view of the beautiful stone bridge and a symbolic "Mount Fuji". The garden also contains a symbolic Mount Aso, the volcanic symbol of Kumamoto City.

3. Another view of Fuji-san and the beautiful pines on the main island.

4. While tame koi swim in the shore waters, there is a view of both "Mount Fuji" and "Mount Aso" symbols.

5. The beautiful view from the tea house is like a painting. It is interesting that the tea house was built in Kyoto by Tadioshi's grandfather, a student of Sen No Rikyu.

6. And the tea is truely delicious! The symbol visible on the tea bowl is the Hosokawa nine-circle family crest - perhaps a chrysanthemum?

7. Another view from the tea arbor of the beautifully maintained gardens.