43: Ikedayama Park 池田山公園

🌳 Ikedayama Park – A Tranquil Garden with Daimyo Roots

Perched on the eastern edge of the Musashino Plateau in Shinagawa’s Gotanda area, Ikedayama Park (池田山公園) offers visitors a lush, peaceful oasis with historical and horticultural significance. This modern public garden occupies the former site of the Edo-period lower residence (下屋敷) of the Ikeda clan of the Okayama Domain. Although its sloped terrain and pond are often described as “bowl-like,” the area is actually a dissected river terrace, not a すり鉢状地形 (suribachi-shaped landform).

🏯 Legacy of the Ikeda Clan

During the Edo period, the Ikeda clan was one of Japan’s most powerful daimyo families, ruling the Okayama Domain with a fief of over 300,000 koku. Their Edo residence included expansive grounds in Gotanda, situated on a prominent high terrace with views of Tokyo Bay. The gardens behind their lower mansion form the basis of today’s park.

🌿 From Feudal Garden to Urban Park

Following the abolition of the domains in the Meiji era, the Ikeda family continued to use the estate as a private residence. Over time, the area became one of Tokyo’s most prestigious residential neighborhoods. Empress Emerita Michiko’s childhood home, the Shōda residence, was once nearby. In 1985, the park officially opened to the public after Shinagawa Ward acquired the land to preserve its historical landscape.

🏞️ Garden Features and Terrain

The park utilizes the natural elevation of the terrace, with walking paths winding down from higher ground to a pond and waterfall centerpiece. This structure echoes the design of kaiyū-shiki teien (回遊式庭園), or strolling-style gardens, common among daimyo residences. Although some describe it as “bowl-shaped,” it is more accurately a slope descending eastward from the high terrace, not a geological basin.

📍 Ikedayama Park Topography

According to the Shinagawa ADEAC database, Ikedayama is part of a high river terrace at about 30 meters elevation. It forms part of the Musashino Plateau’s dissected eastern edge, sloping gently toward the Meguro River. This makes it a fluvial terrace—not a すり鉢状地形 (sunken landform). The perceived bowl-like impression comes from the garden design rather than the landform itself.

With its blend of greenery, history, and elegant landscaping, Ikedayama Park remains a favorite among local families, walkers, and anyone seeking a calm retreat in central Tokyo.

Ikedayama is also counted among the Jōnan Gozan (城南五山) — the “Five Southern Hills” of Edo — alongside Gotenyama, Hanabusayama, Shimazuyama, and Yatsuyama. These hills were celebrated in literature and geography for their beauty and symbolic prestige.

🌸 Seasonal Highlights

Ikedayama Park is particularly celebrated in spring and autumn. In March and April, cherry blossoms create a soft canopy over the garden paths. In autumn, maple and ginkgo trees blaze with red and gold. These seasonal transitions make it a popular yet peaceful spot for local residents and garden enthusiasts alike.

🌿 Garden Features

At the centre of the garden lies a small pond filled with koi carp and turtles. Around it, you’ll find stone bridges, stepping paths, and a covered rest pavilion. The subtle elevation shifts offer new perspectives as you stroll through, adding a sense of movement and variety to the space despite its small size.

🧭 Visitor Information

Address: 5-4-35 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0022

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (extended to 6:00 PM in July and August months)

Admission: Free

Official Info: Shinagawa Tourism – Ikedayama Park

Note: The park is located in a residential area — please speak quietly and respect the calm atmosphere.