Tensha-en garden Wisteria bridge

Many symbols were incorporated in the design of the Tensha-en garden, which belonged to the Date clan of Uwajima. The shape of the lake follows the kanji character for kokoro 心, and in Japanese kokoro refers to mind, emotions, feelings, spirit and soul.

The plants also have their own symbolism. Thus, the bridge photographed here is made of Wisteria, a plant known to live over 100 years, a symbol for long-life and immortality.