Nestled in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, lies the charming Isui-en Garden, which spans an impressive area of 13,500m2. Established during the Meiji era, the land was purchased by a wealthy tanner, Kiyosumi Michikiyo in 1670. The name of this enchanting garden means ‘garden founded on water’, due to its emerald green ponds fed by the adjacent Yoshikigawa River. Based on the concept of ‘borrowed scenery’, the garden has harmoniously incorporated the Nandaimon Gate of the Todaiji Temple and Mount Wakakusayama into its landscape.

Admire the outline of the pond, which is ingeniously shaped in the Kanji character for water (水). Marvel at the two islands at the heart of the pond where the sculptures of a crane and tortoise stand, symbolising longevity in Japanese culture. If you get the chance, drop by in autumn to see the garden glow in glory with its foliage of red, orange and gold. Neverthless, pay this gem of a garden a visit on your way to Nara Park, as it is serene, tranquil, and undoubtedly a lovely place to be.