Genji, now Chancellor, wanted a quiet residence, and in the area of Rokujo Kyogoku he acquired a vast plot, including the old mansion of the late Rokujo Lady, and built a great residence covering four blocks. In the eighth month the Rokujo-in was finished, and the ladies moved in.
The southeast quarter was where Genji and Murasaki lived. The artificial hills were raised high, the pond shaped with great taste, and in the front garden were planted, in particular abundance, trees and plants for the pleasures of spring: five-needled pines, red plums, cherries, wisteria, kerria and rock azaleas, with autumn plants mixed in here and there.
The southwest quarter was the home of Empress Akikonomu. On the hills already there, trees of deep autumn color were planted; clear spring water was led far off; rocks were added so that the stream would sound louder, and a waterfall was made to fall; a wide autumn moor was laid out. It being the season, it was in full and riotous bloom, outshining even the hills and fields around Oi in Saga.
The northeast quarter was the home of the Lady of the Falling Flowers. It had a cool spring and was laid out mainly for summer shade. In the front garden were black bamboos, so that a cool breeze would blow beneath them; tall trees like a grove were full of charm; a hedge of deutzia went round it, and orange blossoms that recall the past, pinks, roses and gentians were planted. There was also a riding ground with its pavilion.
The northwest quarter was the home of the Akashi Lady. Storehouses lined its north side, pines grew thick along the dividing fence, and it was arranged for enjoying snow. There were hedges of chrysanthemums for the frost of early winter mornings, a proud grove of oaks, and other trees transplanted from deep in the mountains.
This mansion, which set spring, summer, autumn and winter in four quarters, marked the summit of the Shining Genji's glory.