Kokoen is truly beautiful. It was so peaceful walking through it. The place was filled with gardens seperated by walls, each different in content, but similar in their calming nature. I especially loved the covered bridge to the right. From it, one could see cascading waterfalls and carp-filled pools. Man, those carp got it good.
I think I went a bit overboard on my carp pictures. It was my first day there, and I was fascinated by them. They came in such a variety of colors, and they were all over the park. Even in streams that seemed cut off from the main pools. I couldn't help but wonder if the carp are trapped in their pools though, and don't even get the run of the park. Anyway, I even got a picture of a baby one; I guess they have to start somewhere.
The place was full of islands and bridges and walkways. I really can't express how much it was a joy just to walk around. Man, if I could have a yard like that someday, that'd be heaven... There were also little pavilions scattered around the park. I'm assuming that, since they had 'remove your shoe' signs, that one could rest their if one wanted to. I did not take that opportunity, though.
At this time of March, I was too early for cherry blossoms. As such, not very much was in bloom. There were some gems, though, like the pink-flowering tree to the right. There was also a white flowing tree that was pretty, and a bamboo forest.
Extra Stuff:
I liked the construction of the doors.
I had met a couple from Denmark while wandering around the gardens. They were in Japan for two weeks as well, though their stay was already half over. We pretty much just discussed where we'd been and where we were planning on going. They suggested that I go to Hiroshima. Later on, I would. I am glad I followed their suggestion. Anyway, I thought I saw them again when I was in Tokyo, but they passed by so quickly in the crowd that I wasn't sure...
Kokoen was a dream. Such a wonderful, peaceful garden.