Shukkei-en Garden, Hiroshima (must see)

Shukkei-en Garden is a historic and exquisite Japanese garden with a rich and fascinating history. Its construction began in 1620 during the Edo period, under the orders of Asano Nagaakira, the daimyo (feudal lord) of Hiroshima Han.

To create this magnificent garden, the seventh lord of the Han summoned a skilled expert in Japanese garden construction from Kyoto. With their expertise, Shukkei-en was meticulously designed and crafted to embody the essence of traditional Japanese landscaping and aesthetics.

During the Meiji period, the garden served as a tranquil retreat and villa for the Asano family. However, its significance expanded when Emperor Meiji's Imperial General Headquarters were relocated to Hiroshima, and the emperor briefly stayed at the villa. Following this historical event, the garden was opened to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate its serene beauty and harmonious design.

The garden's journey took a significant turn during World War II when Hiroshima became the target of the first atomic bomb used in warfare. Shukkei-en Garden, unfortunately, lay in close proximity to Ground Zero of the nuclear attack. The bombing inflicted extensive damage on the garden, devastating its carefully curated landscapes and structures.

In the aftermath of the bombing, the garden served as a place of refuge for victims of the war, providing solace amidst the chaos and destruction. Despite the challenges faced during this dark period, the resilience of the people and their dedication to preserving their cultural heritage allowed for the rehabilitation and restoration of Shukkei-en Garden.

Following renovations and reconstruction efforts, the garden triumphantly reopened its gates to the public in 1951, presenting once again a haven of tranquility and beauty amidst the bustling city of Hiroshima. The carefully tended landscapes, picturesque ponds, graceful bridges, and traditional structures all contribute to the charm and allure of Shukkei-en.

Today, visitors from all over the world can experience the profound historical significance and the serene ambiance that envelopes Shukkei-en Garden. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Japanese people, symbolizing their ability to rebuild and heal even after facing immense adversity.