• Himuro Shrine - Begin the journey at Himuro Shrine, a tranquil and historically important site that subtly marks the transition between sacred tradition and aesthetic elegance. Situated just behind the entrance to Yoshikien and Isuien Gardens, this shrine once acted as a spiritual boundary and a protector of seasonal changes, especially concerning ice and the arrival of spring. The guide will explain how this humble yet significant location is deeply connected to the natural rhythms and spiritual culture that influenced Nara’s garden architecture.
• Yoshikien - Yoshikien is an ideal place to start exploring the aesthetic principles of Japanese gardens. It is divided into three sections—a pond garden, a moss garden, and a tea garden—allowing visitors to experience the diversity in texture, form, and purpose of Japanese landscaping art. With expert guidance, visitors will learn about the symbolism of each element and how the garden’s design encourages contemplation, tranquility, and seasonal appreciation. Yoshikien is a lesson in subtlety—a peaceful space that demonstrates how less can be more.
• Isuien Garden - Isuien provides a more intricate and dynamic perspective, featuring two gardens from different eras (Edo and Meiji) combined into a single, harmonious design. The guide will emphasize how the garden employs techniques such as asymmetry, spatial layering, and especially, shakkei (borrowed scenery), where distant landmarks like Todai-ji’s Great South Gate and Mount Mikasa are framed to become part of the garden itself. This educational journey concludes with a matcha tea experience within the garden—offering not only a taste of Japan but also an opportunity to engage all five senses in absorbing the knowledge gained.

• Matcha tea ceremony
• Guided tour of Yoshikien and Isuien Gardens

This tour provides more than just a visit to stunning gardens—it offers an in-depth exploration of Japanese aesthetics, history, and cultural philosophy.

Participants will explore two contrasting yet harmonious gardens: the serene Yoshikien, where key elements of Japanese garden design are highlighted through its moss, pond, and tea gardens; and the more intricate Isuien, where Edo- and Meiji-era styles blend into a seamless landscape that skillfully incorporates borrowed scenery.

Guided by an expert, participants will uncover not only the appearance of these gardens but also the reasons behind their design and the profound messages they convey.

The experience concludes with a matcha tea ceremony overlooking Isuien’s most breathtaking view, allowing for reflection on the experience with all five senses.

Whether a lover of Japanese culture, a garden enthusiast, or someone seeking peaceful beauty with meaning, this tour provides insight, inspiration, and elegance in equal measure.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.