Timeless silence at Nijo Castle in Kyoto
Silence that transcends time── Nijo Castle, Kyoto
WABISUKE's journey and color records
Nijo Castle, a former detached palace, stands in Nakagyo Ward, the heart of Tokyo. This castle, with its lingering scent of cypress, was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1603.
Ninomaru Palace, the stage for the restoration of imperial rule
When talking about Nijo Castle, the first thing that comes to mind is the Ninomaru Palace. The large hall, decorated with colorful sliding screen paintings by the Kano school, is the historical setting where the 15th shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, returned power to the emperor.
The poetry of the seasons in the garden
Approximately 300 cherry trees of 50 different varieties are planted in Ninomaru Garden and Seiryu-en Garden, and in spring, the castle is enveloped in pale pink clouds. In autumn, the autumn leaves are reflected on the water's surface, and in winter, the crisp air tightens the stone pavement. Seasonal illuminations are also held, and Nijo Castle at night is a mystical sight, as if lost in the gap between time.
Encountering life in the castle town
Just take a short walk to Sanjo-kai Shopping Street. Lined with cafes and general stores renovated from traditional townhouses, this is a place where everyday Kyoto life intersects with the curiosity of travelers. The lingering echoes of history in your heart, while experiencing the lives of modern Kyoto residents, are also part of the joy of traveling.
"There are places that speak quietly to us across the ages. Nijo Castle is one such place."
At WABISUKE, we weave together a bit of history and the intersection of seasons through color and words.