Toji-in

The old pond–
a frog jumps in,
sound of water.
–Bashō

The temple was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1341 and served as the familial temple for fifteen subsequent Ashikaga shoguns.

The garden’s delicate atmosphere contrasts with the turbulent times in which it was created.

The principle feature of the eastern section is a pond in the form of the Japanese character shin, meaning heart or spirit. A stone bridge bridge leads to the central island meant to recall the island of Horai in Chinese antiquity.

From the veranda you can view two ponds, rocks and greenery of the garden and the teahouse Seiren-tei situated on a hill.

Located just far enough from the tourist paths, in a very compact space, this garden offers the visitor a place of great calm and beauty.