Shinsen-en( Sacred Spring Garden) , the atmosphere where the aristocrats of Heian-kyo played!
Hi I’m Nobu, I like traveling overseas and in Japan, visited 25 countries!
I’m a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of English for 8 years.
I show you hidden Japan which you have never seen and heard of!
Shinsenen Shrine
My friends and I went to Shinsen-en.
This shrine is located in the center of Kyoto, just south of Nijo Castle.
History
It is said that this garden was originally built in 794 when the capital was moved from Nara to Kyoto.
Also it is said that the nobles used to watch the moon from boats floating on the pond.
This pond is a natural pond and never dry out in history.
So this place was used to pray for rain as a ritual.
Romance
Moreover this place also said to be the place where Yoshitsune, the most famous samurai in Japanese history, and Shizuka Gozen, the wife met.
It’s a romantic place!
There is a pond in the center and a beautiful red bridge crosses from the small main shrine to the center of the pond.
There was a friendly duck in the pond too.
Dragon boat
You can see a boat with a dragon’s head, which was probably same one used to moon viewing by aristocrats in the Heian period (794-1192).
How about experiencing the atmosphere of the year 794?
It is just south of Nijo Castle and a 3-4 minute walk away.
I’m Nobu, one heart enjoy together!!!