Matsubara Shimoyashiki Gardens

The Daimyō garden (大名庭園) is classed as a stroll garden with a spring-fed pond (池泉回遊式庭園) and, like the Hama-rikyū Gardens, are a rare example of the shio-iri (汐入形式) or "tidal" style, the water level of the central pond changing with that of Lake Biwa, from which it is in fact fed; the gardens are Japan's only example of a freshwater shio-iri style garden.^[5] During the Edo period, activities in the garden included tea ceremonies, as well as fishing nearby and horse-riding on the track immediately to the west.^[6] Remaining structures from the Edo period residence include the okuzashiki (inner room), storehouse, rice storehouse, kitchen building, and gatehouse.^[7] After the abolition of the han system in Meiji 4 (1871), the family had their principal residence in Tōkyō, but continued to visit Hikone.^[8] The residence - which came to be known as the Senmatsukan (千松館) - was extended and the gardens renovated; the large hall and entrance building date from 1889.^[6][8] In 1947, the family moved back from Tōkyō, making this their principal residence.^[8] Lost structures include a teahouse, shoin, and gate.^[7]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Matsubara Shimoyashiki Gardens.

• List of Places of Scenic Beauty of Japan (Shiga)
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