When warm weather returns following the winter, sprouts shoot up from their hibernating roots. And like a gift from the gods of spring, their golden buds bloom into flowers.

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Nakazu Bansyouen was created over 300 years ago by the ruling family of the time, the Marugame Kyogoku clan. Over the generations, the feudal lords continued to add to the garden, but following after the 1800s, private organizations in the neighboring areas bought the garden and have continued to preserve it. Many people believe, and have believed for generations, that this garden is an expression of the idea of “shinra banshō”, or “all things in nature”, and should be similarly preserved.

In Japanese, the phrase “shinra banshō” includes everything that exists within the universe. “Shira” refers to the trees and shrubs that grow limitlessly in the world, while “banshō” refers to “all creation”.

The sky stretches out above the vermillion arched bridge. The islands floating in the water make the pond feel as if it were as immense and impressive as an ocean. The tea house on the opposite shore represents human life. Clouds and the light of the moon reflect against the surface of the pond. The landscape of the garden transforms with the changing of the seasons.

Now it’s time to take our first steps into this miniature “shinra banshō.”

The poem we began our journey with was written by Takāki Gyogoku, a feudal lord who was also the owner of this garden.

This poem illustrates the “Shinra Banshō” he discovered in this garden.

What will you find in this miniature universe?
We hope you can make your own discoveries while wandering around the garden.