A beautiful pond garden (chiseisen kaiyu-shiki teien) overlooking a pond from an elevated vantage point. A tranquil oasis where diverse flowers bloom throughout the year, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Ikedayama Park is a Shinagawa Ward public park located in Higashigotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo. Known as a relaxing spot for local residents, it's a pond garden (chiseisen kaiyu-shiki teien) designed with a pond viewed from an elevated position. During the Edo period, this area was the site of a lower villa belonging to the Ikeda clan, the lords of Okayama. The elevated area was known as "Ikedayama." Even after the abolition of the feudal domains, it remained an Ikeda family residence. Eventually, the area around Ikedayama was developed into residential land, with mansions lining the hillsides, becoming a prestigious residential area in Tokyo. The area now occupied by Ikedayama Park was the inner garden of the Ikeda family's lower villa. After the war, a private residence stood there for some time, but Shinagawa Ward acquired the land to preserve the garden and developed it as a park, opening it to the public in 1985. The Edo-period strolling garden is well-preserved and open to the public. The park boasts a variety of flowers throughout the seasons, including plum blossoms, camellias, azaleas, irises, hydrangeas, and autumn leaves, creating a tranquil escape from the city's clamor. It also features a spacious lawn and walking paths, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. Recently, it has gained attention as a power spot, believed to be located on a dragon vein (ryūmyaku) where energy flows from Mount Fuji. The Shinagawa Tourism Association promotes sightseeing routes including Ikedayama Park, such as "Shinagawa Power Spot Tour" and "Jonan Gozan Tour." This park is highly recommended for those seeking a relaxing escape from the urban hustle to enjoy nature. Be sure to visit!