A Place of Peace and Calmness: Suizenji Temple Jojuen Garden and Izumi Shrine

#April Good Places 2025 Built in the early Edo period and inspired by the 53rd Tokaido, Kumamoto City’s traditional Japanese tour-style garden features pools of springs, fake mountains and delicate stone paths. "Izumi Shrine", "Inawa Shrine", and "Mizumaeji Shrine" are also historic gardens, which are lush greenery with the neatness and delicacy common in Japanese gardens. The most spiritual atmosphere in the garden is the “Izumi Shrine”, where as usual to be quiet and connected with the shrine’s energy. There is a saying in Japanese that is ~ Ah Hum's breath, which means that the two parties cooperate seamlessly and have a tacit understanding. The "ah" (あうん) inside refers to the 狛犬 whose mouth opens and closes in front of the shrine and temple. Actually, he doesn't look evil, he's very cute. There are many souvenir shops outside the door. The prices are not expensive. It is worth a visit.