Saturday, October 18, 2008


Another supremely well manicured tree. I lucked out with gorgeous weather during my visit to the park.

Some of the tree branches had this weird grass-like stuff growing off them. For some reason, these branches always reminded me of human arms.

Bridge to somewhere.

What would a Japanese garden be without koi? No garden you'd ever see me in that's what! For just 80 Yen, one could buy a long stick of fry bread to feed to the hungry fish. There were plenty of little kids having a ball so I passed.

Miniature Stonehenge.

Not quite Niagara Falls, but it will do.

Near the waterfall I found this turtle. He was no doubt hoping I would feed him some of that delicious 80 Yen fry bread. No luck little guy!

My artistic shot of the rocks submerged in water. Dear Getty Images, if you read this blog and would like the exclusive distribution rights to this photograph, please contact me. I think we can work something out.

This is the Kikugetsu-tei Teahouse. A cup of tea was not included in the price of admission.

As you can see, the teahouse sits on the water. I happened to think it looked quite pretty.

A view of Hokko Lake.

This shot of the garden with the Engetsu-kyo Bridge is the most photographed scene from Ritsurin Park.

A shot of this weird little island from the bridge. It reminded me of a cross between a ladybug and mushroom cap.

Where's Kermit?

An Oni head! This was part of a small exhibition on Sanuki folk crafts.

While walking around the park I thought of the following idea: Hedge Tables & Chairs. Save time and money by growing a full set of entertaining furniture right in your own backyard.

If you don't like edges with your topiary...

Look, I found where Frodo Baggins lives!

There was an exhibition of bonsai trees in a hall near the souvenir shop. This bonsai was a steal at a mere 800 USD. The sad thing is, I'm not being sarcastic.

Here's the more expensive 30,000 USD bonsai tree (that's right, no decimal point)! Tree or car?...tree or car?...I can't decide.