Wakayama Castle Nishinomaru Square

Wakayama Castle Nishinomaru Garden is also known by the nickname "Momijidani Garden" (Autumn Foliage Valley Garden). Located within the grounds of Wakayama Castle, it is a daimyo (feudal lord) garden created in the early Edo period. As the name suggests, it is especially famous for autumn leaves: typically from late November to early December, the garden’s 8,217 square meters of foliage turns color, and the tasteful scenery reflected in the pond is often discussed as a top foliage-viewing spot. In the Edo period it was praised as one of Japan’s finest gardens, but it fell into disrepair after the Meiji Restoration. Large-scale excavations and restoration work were carried out in the 1970s, and the garden has been preserved to its current form in connection with the arrival of Tokugawa Yorinobu, the first lord of the Kishu Tokugawa domain. In 1985 it was designated a National Cultural Property. Highlights include "Hiyokaku" by the pond, the boat-shaped "Ofuna-ishi" stone in the center of the pond, and the way the inner moat and the Ohashi Roka corridor reflect on the water—especially atmospheric during the foliage season. Access: From Nankai Main Line "Wakayamashi Station," walk about 10 minutes. If using JR, take a Wakayama Bus from JR "Wakayama Station" and get off at "Koen-mae"—it’s right there. When visiting Wakayama Castle, consider walking a full loop of Nishinomaru Garden as well.