May 27, 2026

A Peaceful Urban Oasis in Tokyo

[Text and photos by Program Director Luke Strosnider]

Tokyo can be an extraordinarily high-energy place. But studying here is also an opportunity to experience the Japanese cultural tradition of a slower, more mindful existence. Few places exemplify that kind of energy than a Japanese garden and we are fortunate to have just one a short walk from our hotel: Kiyosumi Garden.

A Japanese garden featuring a pond, teahouse, and urban buildings in the background. — Kiyosumi Garden, an urban oasis featuring stone walking paths and a tea house, is just a short walk from our hotel.

Our afternoon session met to explore the garden, which was originally built in the 1870s by the founder of the Mitsubishi corporation and became a public garden in 1932. Strolling the grounds, one begins to feel their pulse slow. It is a decidedly different experience than the busy streets of Tokyo which lie just beyond the garden's walls.

Students walk upon large stones through a Japanese garden. — Landmark students Luke Watson, Gabe Kwok, Christopher Gurr, and Zina Sagoo walk the stone paths that wind through Kiyosumi Garden.

Prior to our garden experience, our morning class was spent clarifying our academic goals for the trip. Discussion focused on the ways we can best document our experience of Japan, including writing, photography, and more.

A professor stands at a podium in front of a classroom of students. — Professor Cynthia Ludlam discusses the academic goals for this trip.

Some of that effort will be featured here, as we’ll begin posting student contributions to this blog soon. Stay tuned!