Garden
A serene garden with four seasons
The gardens at Tsukishoji Temple are stunning spaces with different expressions depending on the season.
The time spent viewing the garden from Shoin in the historic scenery
brings a peaceful moment to visitors.
The elegant landscape is dotted with gardens associated with Fumai Kuni and
stone structures that tell of a long history,
making new discoveries every time you visit.
garden
The garden viewed from the Shoin is said to have been restored by Lord Harusato, reflecting the simplicity favored by tea masters.
Beyond the garden stretches a serene bamboo grove, where the song of the Japanese bush warbler echoes in the spring.
Throughout the seasons, various birds such as kingfishers, herons, cranes, and thrushes visit, offering a vivid sense of nature’s abundance.
Lotus Pond
This pond is said to have been a place where the great turtle of the sixth lord came to drink.
The still water reflects different expressions with each season, gently soothing visitors.
Hydrangea
Many hydrangeas are planted at Gesshoji, with the area around the grave of the first lord, Naomasa Matsudaira, being particularly breathtaking when in full bloom.
Among them, the delicate beauty of the *gaku-ajisai* (lacecap hydrangea) stands out—modest yet richly detailed upon closer inspection.
As the rainy season arrives in early June, the flowers bloom all at once, offering a soothing sight for about a month, a beloved seasonal tradition of the San'in region.
Stone Lanterns
Stone lanterns are scattered throughout the temple grounds, handed down alongside Gesshoji’s long history.
During the Mantoue ceremony held on August 15, candles are lit in the lanterns, enveloping the grounds in a magical atmosphere.
Water Basins and Tsukubai
Stepping stones lead to water basins (*chōzubachi*) and low stone washbasins (*tsukubai*) placed beside the tombs.
Surrounding them are plants such as mock-orange (*mokkok*) and shibuki, creating a pathway reminiscent of a traditional tea garden.
