Yokokan Garden — Edo-Period Feudal Lord's Retreat

**Best viewing seasons:** Autumn (mid-November) is peak when Japanese maples surrounding the pond turn scarlet, reflected in the still water. Spring (early April) features cherry blossoms and fresh green moss. Winter snow (January–February) creates stark black-and-white compositions — the garden is open and heated tea service is available in the villa. **Tatami room viewing:** The reconstructed villa allows entry — sit on tatami and view the garden as Edo-period lords did. The room's design uses shakkei (borrowed scenery) technique, framing the distant Mount Asuwa between foreground pines. The composition shifts subtly as you move along the tatami — this intentional choreography of views defines kaiyu gardens. **Night illumination:** Seasonal evening illuminations (April–May, October–November) light the garden 19:00–21:00. The pond reflections of illuminated pines and maples create otherworldly atmospheres. Photography permitted; tripods allowed if not obstructing paths. **Tea ceremony events:** The garden hosts monthly tea ceremonies in the villa's tea room (chashitsu) — reservation required, ¥1,500 including matcha and wagashi. The ceremony is abbreviated (30 minutes) and accessible to beginners. Check the Fukui City cultural events calendar for dates.