[alison]

After we visited I wrote to the caretaker of the pond to ask if they could consider making more flat surfaces when they undertake future maintenance.  I got a relatively positive reply so hopefully in the near future the place will become even easier for all to visit.

貴重なご意見ありがとうございます。例の場所や橋のあたりの段差は地元でもたびたび気にはされている場所でもあります。ブームになる前はあまり段差がなかったのですが、ブームによる鑑賞客の増加で野芝がはげ、砂利も減り、土がえぐれて行く状況となっています。今回頂いたご意見で段差解消に拍車がかかるように推し進めていきます。近い将来に車椅子の方々も楽しめるように改善改修していきますので、いましばらくお待ちください、そしてよろしくお願いします。

Translation from the reply of the caretaker:

Thank you for your important input.  Regarding the uneven ground by the torii gate and the small step up to the bridge, that area has been brought to our attention by the local community as well.  Before this pond become popular the ground was flatter, but with the increase of visitors the wild grasses and pebbles have been reduced and the ground has eroded.  We will use your input and strive to remove the bumps from the pathways.  In the near future we hope to improve it so that wheelchair users can enjoy the area, so please be patient with us as we make these changes.